Last winter evening, over a steaming cup of coffee, Elina shared, “Bob, everyone tells me to follow my passion, but I feel stuck. I always thought my passion to dance was the key, but even passion gets tiring when it turns into an obligation. I need something that truly gives me a reason to get up every morning—but I’m not sure if a regular job, something I don’t love, will fulfill that.”
“You know, Elina,” I began, “passion is often romanticized, but there’s more to fulfillment than just chasing what excites you.”
She tilted her head. “What do you mean?”
“Have you ever heard of ikigai?” I asked. Her puzzled expression gave me my answer, so I continued. “It’s a Japanese concept that means ‘reason for being.’ Imagine four overlapping circles: what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. Your ikigai lies at the intersection of all four. It’s not just about passion—it’s about balance and purpose.”
“That’s interesting. I’ve never thought of it that way.” she said.
“Instead of solely pursuing passion,” I explained, “think about where your skills align with what the world needs and what satisfies you. Maybe you could explore ways to combine your love for dance with a steady career, like teaching classes or organizing events.”
She nodded. “That’s a shift from what I’ve always believed. I’ve been so focused on finding what makes me happy, but I haven’t thought about creating balance between passion and practicality. Thank you, Bob!”
I smiled. “It’s a common challenge. Passion can be fleeting. It’s thrilling, yes, but it might not sustain you through tough times. Purpose, on the other hand, is a steady guide. By seeking your ikigai, you’ll discover not just what you love, but how to live it meaningfully.”
Elina’s face had softened and she smiled.
Dear readers, life isn’t just about following fleeting passions. Seek your ikigai, where your strengths, passions, and purpose align. In doing so, you’ll create a life that fulfills both your heart and your needs.
