For those of you that know me or follow my blog then it will come as no surprise that Japanese culture is near and dear to my heart. And this curiosity has led me to find out more about the concept of ikigai.

In Japan, true ikigai is not about making money. It’s not about what the world needs from you or what you’re good at, or even what you love. It’s not any lofty goal to achieve. True ikigai is embracing the joy of the little things, being in the here and now, reflecting on past happy memories and cultivating a state of mind that can lead to a happy future.


The 10 rules rom the book IKIGAI: The Japanese Secret To a Long and Happy Life, are:

1. Stay active, don’t retire

2. Take it slow

3. Don’t fill your stomach

4. Surround yourself with good friends

5. Get in shape for your next birthday

6. Smile

7. Reconnect with nature

8. Give thanks

9. Live in the moment

10. Follow your passion