What do you want to be when you grow up?

What do you want to do with your life?

These are common sentiments we hear growing up. I know I did. 

But as I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized these were probably not the most thought provoking questions to ask or be asked.

Instead, “what is your passion?” or “what inspires/motivates you?” or “what makes you want to get out of bed?” may have been more insightful questions. These would have certainly encouraged greater self-reflection. 

It’s not until I was thirty that I first heard about the concept of ikigai. It is a Japanese idea that loosely translates to “reason for being”.

The concept of ikigai suggests that one should attempt to find the intersection of four “things”:

• Your passions

• Your abilities/talents

• What the world needs

• What you can be paid for

Interestingly, several of the world’s communities that are known for longetivity/higher proportion of centenarians, are linked by the common concept of ikigai. While it is not scientifically proven that this phenomenon is correlated with or predictive of longevity, I think we can all agree that finding purpose can lead to increased satisfaction, happiness, and perhaps less stress. 

Achieving this center sweet spot is undoubtedly easier said than done when you place this framework in the context of real life, as there are often competing interests. Your purpose may align with a job that doesn’t pay the bills, or the job that provides financial stability may be uninteresting or unmeaningful work to you. The path there may be winding, but eventually, with enough trial and error (and some failing forward), I think we can all carve out a version of the center spot for ourselves.  

Ever wonder why people who seem to “have it all” by society’s metrics (success, money, etc) often seem to still be grinding? For many I would imagine it’s related to ikigai and that sense of purpose/mission. 

I can think of at least a dozen conversations I’ve had with more senior physicians who have made great impact in their fields and could certainly retire yesterday if they desired. When asked why they keep showing up, it is always some variation of “this is what I’m meant to do” or “this is my purpose” or “this is my joy”. In a way, if you find true joy in what you do, it becomes part of your identity (in a positive way). 

Though our healthcare system and culture are certainly far from perfect, many of us entered into healthcare because this was/is our “calling”; vocational if you will. For me personally, it was a unique intersection of being able to serve others, use my abilities in math/science, and make a living. 

Have you found your Ikigai sweet spot? 

What gives you purpose?