Ikigai
Index
Ikigai (生きがい)
Pronunciation: [ee-kee-guy]Quick definition
Ikigai is a personally felt source of meaning that makes life—and work—feel worth living and worth doing, day after day.Nuance & origin
- Iki (life) + gai (value/benefit).
- Ikigai evolves; it can be small and practiced daily, not only a grand mission.
Common misconceptions
- It is not limited to career choice or a rigid four-circle Venn diagram.
- It is closer to sustained meaning and contribution than simple happiness.
Why it matters for leaders
- Aligns personal purpose with team and organizational goals.
- Builds resilience and engagement during change.
- Guides prioritization and talent development.
How to apply (5 steps)
- Inventory strengths: list skills used when you’re at your best.
- Name what matters: causes, values, and people you care about.
- Map contribution: where strengths meet a real stakeholder need.
- Design small experiments: weekly roles/projects/rituals.
- Review & refine: reflect monthly; keep what energizes.
Leader’s prompts
- When did my work feel most worth it this month? Why?
- Which stakeholder benefits most when I’m at my best—and how can I serve them more consistently?
Related terms
- Shokunin (職人): devotion to craft.
- Kokorozashi (志): aspiring intent/mission.
- Purpose: broader Western analogue; often institutional.
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