The 10 Rules of Ikigai

Let me tell you a story about my friend, Hiroshi. Hiroshi lived in a small village in Japan, where life moved at a slower pace, and people seemed to radiate a quiet joy. One day, I asked him, “Hiroshi, what’s your secret? How do you wake up every day with so much energy and purpose?” He smiled and said, “It’s simple. I live by Ikigai.”

Ikigai, he explained, is a Japanese concept that means “a reason for being.” It’s the sweet spot where your passions, talents, and the needs of the world intersect. Intrigued, I asked Hiroshi to teach me the rules of Ikigai. Over the next few weeks, he shared ten life lessons that transformed the way I saw the world. Let me share them with you.

1. Stay Active; Don’t Retire

Hiroshi’s grandfather, a sprightly 85-year-old, was the village’s beloved baker. Every morning, he woke up at dawn to bake bread for the community. “Why doesn’t he retire?” I asked. Hiroshi laughed. “Retire? He’s doing what he loves. Staying active keeps him alive.” His grandfather’s joy wasn’t in the money he earned but in the smiles he brought to people’s faces. That’s Ikigai in action—staying engaged in activities that bring you joy, no matter your age.

2. Take It Slow

One afternoon, Hiroshi invited me to tea. Instead of rushing through it, he savored every sip, noticing the aroma, the warmth, and the subtle flavors. “In our fast-paced world,” he said, “we forget to slow down and appreciate the little things.” That day, I learned that life isn’t a race. It’s a journey meant to be savored, one moment at a time.

3. “Hara Hachi Bu”–Don’t Fill Your Stomach

At dinner, Hiroshi served a modest portion of rice, fish, and vegetables. “We follow Hara Hachi Bu,” he explained. “It means eating until you’re 80% full.” This practice, common among the long-lived Okinawans, keeps you light and energized. It’s not just about food—it’s about moderation in all aspects of life.

4. Surround Yourself with Good Friends

Hiroshi’s evenings were often spent with his closest friends, laughing and sharing stories. “Good friends are like anchors,” he said. “They keep you grounded and remind you of what truly matters.” Those moments of connection brought him immense joy and a sense of belonging.

5. Get in Shape for Your Next Birthday

Hiroshi’s neighbor, a 70-year-old woman, was training for a 5K run. “Every year, she sets a fitness goal,” Hiroshi told me. “It’s her way of celebrating life.” Staying active, he explained, ensures that you can continue doing the things you love for years to come.

6. Reconnect with Nature

One weekend, Hiroshi took me on a hike through the mountains. As we walked, he pointed out the trees, the birds, and the fresh air. “Nature has a way of grounding us,” he said. “It reminds us of the beauty and simplicity of life.” Those moments in nature recharged my spirit and helped me feel more alive.

7. Smile

Hiroshi had a contagious smile. Even on tough days, he found reasons to smile. “A simple smile can transform your day,” he said. “It not only makes you feel happier but also spreads positivity to others.” I realized that happiness often starts with a small, intentional act.

8. Give Thanks

Every night, Hiroshi wrote in his gratitude journal. “It’s a practice that shifts your focus from what’s lacking to what’s abundant,” he explained. Whether it was a warm cup of tea or a kind word from a friend, he found joy in the little things. Over time, this practice cultivated a deep sense of contentment in him.

9. Follow Your Ikigai

Hiroshi’s Ikigai was teaching. He loved inspiring young minds and helping them discover their potential. “Teaching isn’t just a job for me,” he said. “It’s my calling.” Finding your Ikigai, he explained, is about discovering what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. It’s the sweet spot where passion meets purpose.

10. Live in the Moment

One evening, as we sat by the river, Hiroshi said, “Life is happening right now. Don’t miss it.” He put away his phone and listened to the sound of the water. “When you’re with loved ones, be fully present. These moments are what make life meaningful.”

The Lesson I Learned

Hiroshi’s lessons stayed with me long after I left the village. I realized that Ikigai isn’t about grand achievements or material success. It’s about finding joy in the everyday, staying connected to what matters, and living with purpose. Whether it’s baking bread, savoring a cup of tea, or spending time with loved ones, Ikigai is about embracing life fully.

So, ask yourself: What’s your Ikigai? What makes you jump out of bed in the morning? Once you find it, hold onto it. Because that’s where true happiness lies.