Issue 022: Uncovering Your Ikigai
Issue 022 / Episode 017
Tuesday, August 1, 2023 - Uncovering Your Ikigai: The Path to Living with Purpose and Passion
MINDSET Nation!
Today, we're diving deep into the concept of Ikigai - a powerful Japanese philosophy that holds the key to living a life of purpose, fulfillment, and, dare I say, greatness.
Ikigai: Your Reason to Get Up in the Morning
Have you ever felt that there's something more to life? A purpose that calls you from within, urging you to do what you were meant to do? That's exactly what Ikigai is all about - finding your reason to get up in the morning with excitement and purpose. It's like having your own personal compass that guides you toward a life of meaning and passion.
Ikigai is a Japanese concept that translates to "a reason for being" or "a reason to get up in the morning." It is a philosophical and psychological idea that focuses on finding one's purpose in life, the intersection of passion, mission, vocation, and profession. The term "Ikigai" comes from the Japanese words "iki," meaning "life" or "to live," and "gai," which means "value" or "worth."
The concept of Ikigai suggests that when individuals discover and pursue what they love, what they are good at, what the world needs, and what they can be paid for, they can experience a sense of fulfillment, satisfaction, and deep meaning in their lives. It is about finding the sweet spot where the elements of passion, mission, vocation, and profession overlap.
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Discovering Your Passion and Superpowers
I want to take a moment to rock with me and visualize. Learning is literally like gaining superpowers. With every page you read and every video you watch, you add new skills to your character. Think about the topic that you have an insatiable thirst for knowledge over. It's not just a hobby; it's a gift, a signpost on your path to your Ikigai.
My calling is to help others. It's been evident in every stage of my life - from being the go-to advice guru for my friends in high school to my time in the Marine Corps, wearing campaign covers as a marriage counselor, personal tutor, and lifestyle coach. I've been on this journey of service since the beginning and only have plans to increase speed as I stare down the coming decades!
Creating Order in Chaos
In this chaotic world, finding your Ikigai means creating order in your life. Create schedules, make routines, and implement systems. The simple act of making a schedule - one for the day, one for the week, one for the month, and one for the year can change your entire life by helping you see what's on the horizon and make plans for it.
It's like plotting the coordinates of your destination, making sure you never lose your way.
Embrace Mindfulness, Embrace Yourself
As you embark on this journey of self-discovery, mindfulness, and self-awareness become your allies. Be aware of your thoughts, your feelings, and your actions. It's like peering through a 6D microscope, uncovering hidden aspects of yourself you never knew existed. Embrace it. Accept it. Use it to navigate through the darkness and find your true north.
The Flow State: Riding the Wave of Productivity
Ever heard of the Pomodoro technique? It's your secret weapon to achieve that state of flow - that magical state where everything just clicks, and time flies by like a blur. In this state, you become an unstoppable force, accomplishing tasks with ease and focus.
I was able to use this tool to rapidly move through my life redesign process. "Music goes on, progress happens ... now, it's a fine day to execute some tasks!"
When Doubt Creeps In..
We all have doubts, but here's the secret - they have no power over you. You've accomplished so much in your life already, and each failure has been a stepping stone to growth. Remember, every L today is a Lesson for the evening and a Win for tomorrow. You've got this!
"I will face the challenges of today with the same tools that I developed to overcome so many battles of yesterday. I'm still here, Anima Invicta!" - Isaac Lester
Choose Your Circle Wisely
Living for your ikigai means choosing your circle wisely. Surround yourself with like-minded, growth-oriented individuals who inspire and uplift you. Say goodbye to drama and negativity - they have no place in your pursuit of greatness.
Through trial and error, I've learned to simply not entertain what doesn't serve me, so there's literally no space for drama in my life, only progress. Making the conscious decision to burn down several bridges to get myself to this point was no small feat, but I did, and the fires of a hundred burning past relationships light the path for me to remain undisturbed by those who have no desire to grow or progress.
The Future Awaits
Look ahead to your future with excitement and anticipation. Your path may not be fully illuminated yet, but you know you're on the right track. Keep your eyes on the horizon, and your heart open to the possibilities that lie ahead. You are creating a legacy, not just for yourself but for future generations.
The importance of remaining inspired and focused on your long-term goals and visions for the future is beyond measure. You must always know where you are going if you want to get there! So by constantly checking our heading and surrounding ourselves with others who are passionate about the journey, we create a failsafe to guard us against laziness, loneliness, and an average mentality. No smooth-brained actions are allowed around here, wrinkles are welcome!
Wrapping Up..
Your Ikigai is not a destination; it's a journey. It's about aligning your passions, talents, and contributions to create a life that brings you joy and fulfillment. Embrace your calling, stay true to your purpose, and live with intention and mindfulness. You are on the path to greatness, and I'm here cheering you on every step of the way.
So, let me ask you: Are you ready to uncover your Ikigai and live a life of purpose and passion?
Remember, you are capable of achieving greatness. Rise, do stuff, learn things, and be unstoppable.
May your challenges be monumental in scope,
May you obtain great and unique lessons, and
May the triumphs be glorious on your journey of growth and self-discovery.
Lux Ex TenebrisWith an unwavering belief in your growth, as always…
Isaac
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