Thoughts about Ikigai

This is my first time heard of the word Ikigai (生きがい). After doing some searching, I kind of feel like this is a complicated concept that cannot simply be explained in a few words in English. It is often described as the intersection of what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. Ikigai encourages individuals to pursue activities and goals that bring them joy and satisfaction, therefore bringing a sense of fulfillment and contentment.

I kind of feel like nowadays, many people, especially young people do not really have an ikigai. (at least people around me). With the fast-paced, technology-driven lifestyle, there seems to be a growing sense of disconnection and aimlessness. When I’m talking with some people around me, usually I could hear they say: “I actually do not have any choices, I’m just on a one-way road and being push by life.’ The concept of ikigai meanwhile emphasized finding ‘joy’ and ‘purpose’, which is people lack of nowadays. People might choose a career that have a better perceived future, e.g., business or economy instead of what they really like. This lack of ikigai can result in a sense of emptiness and a lack of fulfillment, as individuals struggle to find activities or goals that truly resonate with their inner passions and values. I think people should find a way to rediscovering their ikigai.

Here's my questions for you:

1.     When did you find out your own ikigai or do you always have an ikigai?

2.     Do you have any suggestions to promote rediscovering ikigai nowadays?