IKIGAI, Purpose & Human Design
We are all striving for a sense of purpose in this life. That’s what makes us human. The Japanese have a word and philosophy called “Ikigai” that provides a unique perspective on finding purpose and fulfillment. When combined with the wisdom of Human Design, Ikigai is a beautiful tool for unveiling your true path and harnessing your innate potential.
When I first discovered Ikigai, I loved it. It helped me break down purpose in a way that felt natural and easy. It's not just a word; it's a philosophy that embodies the art of finding joy, meaning, and purpose in everyday existence. The term "ikigai" is derived from two Japanese words: "iki," meaning life, and "gai," meaning value or worth. Combined, they represent the value and worthiness of life itself.
At its core, ikigai represents the intersection of four essential elements that give life purpose and fulfillment:
What You Love: This refers to your passions, interests, and the activities that bring you joy and enthusiasm. It's the things that make your heart sing and create a sense of excitement in your life.
What You're Good At: This element encompasses your skills, talents, and strengths. It's about recognizing and nurturing the abilities that come naturally to you and allow you to excel.
What the World Needs: It involves identifying the needs, problems, or challenges in your community or the world at large. It's about finding ways to contribute positively to the lives of others and make a meaningful impact.
What You Can Be Paid For: This element refers to the practical aspect of sustaining your livelihood. It involves finding avenues through which your passions, skills, and contributions can also generate income.
The true magic of ikigai lies in the overlap of these four elements. When you find the sweet spot where your passions, talents, contributions, and financial sustenance converge, you've discovered your ikigai—the source of deep contentment, purpose, and fulfillment.
Ikigai is not a destination; it's a lifelong journey of self-discovery, growth, and alignment. It encourages individuals to cultivate self-awareness, explore their passions, develop their strengths, and create meaningful connections with others.
It's the sweet spot where passion, work, mission, and profession intersect, nurturing a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment.
The Synergy - Where Ikigai Meets Human Design: Imagine the union of Ikigai and Human Design as a treasure map to your purpose. The elements of Ikigai align seamlessly with the pillars of Human Design, creating a roadmap to guide you on your journey of self-discovery and alignment.
What You Love & Energy Type / Authority: Your energy type in Human Design reflects your unique way of interacting with the world. When you align your energy type with what you love, you step into a flow that resonates with your true nature. By following your strategy an authority you will be led towards the path of least resistance and will be putting your energy into what is aligned and exciting to you.
What You're Good At & Centers / Channels: Human Design's centers represent different aspects of your life, from communication to emotions, that you are here to condition and give to the world. Embracing what you're naturally skilled at, as indicated by your centers, allows you to thrive in your innate talents. Your channels also shows where your energy best flows. When you recognize the ways your energy can contribute to the world's needs, you tap into your channel's power.
What the World Needs & Open Centers: The World needs a lot of help and support. Through your open centers, you have experienced the world at an embodied level. You understand what people go through and what is needed. Use the wisdom and knowledged gained through your open centers to serve your community and the collective.
What You Can Be Paid For & Profile: Your profile in Human Design reflects your role and purpose in the grand scheme of life. Embracing your profile empowers you to channel your talents into a practical and abundant avenue. When you step into the role you came here to be, you will always be supported by the Universe.
To unveil your Ikigai within the realm of Human Design, consider these steps:
Self-Reflection: Take time to contemplate your passions, skills, and what you deeply care about. Align these with the insights from your Human Design chart.
Energy Alignment: Embrace your energy type and centers. Understand how your unique energy can contribute to the needs of the world.
Channel Your Purpose: Explore the channels in your Human Design chart. Recognize how the energy flows within you can align with what the world needs.
Profile Power: Embrace your profile's characteristics and purpose. Channel your innate traits into practical avenues that offer both personal fulfillment and prosperity.
As you align your passions, skills, and energies with the world's needs, you create a harmonious balance that uplifts both you and those around you. Remember that your purpose isn't fixed; it's an evolving journey that unfolds as you continue to learn, grow, and align with your authentic self.
Embrace the wisdom of Ikigai to find your passions, skills, and the world's needs, and weave them seamlessly with the insights of your Human Design. Remember, you are your purpose and any way you wish to exude that is perfect.
