In a world that moves too fast and expects us to keep up, pausing to ask ourselves “Why am I really doing this?” can feel radical. That’s exactly what the Japanese concept of Ikigai invites us to do. It’s not a buzzword—it’s a way of life. Understanding ikigai helped me connect the dots between my passion, profession, mission, and vocation—and ultimately led me to create the Japanese Wisdom Card Deck.
What Is Ikigai?
The word Ikigai (生き甲斐) translates to “a reason for being.” It’s about finding joy, meaning, and fulfillment in daily life. Your ikigai lies at the intersection of:
- What you love
- What you’re good at
- What the world needs
- What you can be paid for
Unlike Western ideas of “chasing happiness,” ikigai is quiet, purposeful, and deeply personal. It’s not a sudden breakthrough, but a slow unfolding.
Why Should You Find Your Ikigai?
When we operate without purpose, even the most exciting jobs or hobbies can feel draining. That’s because we’re missing alignment. Finding your ikigai can:
- Help you wake up excited every morning
- Reduce burnout and decision fatigue
- Improve emotional well-being and clarity
- Create long-term satisfaction, not just short bursts of happiness
In Japan, especially in Okinawa (home to some of the longest-living people in the world), ikigai is credited as a key to longevity. And honestly, it makes sense—when your life has purpose, every day feels worth living.
How Finding My Ikigai Changed Everything
For years, I balanced a stable design career with a deep longing to create something meaningful. I loved design, but I missed that soul-sparking feeling. It wasn’t until I stumbled upon the idea of ikigai during a low phase that things shifted. I journaled, questioned, and reflected for months.
That’s when I saw the answer was always with me—I feel most alive when I design with intention, when I create by hand, and when my work helps people live better lives. From that space of clarity, Vibha Designs was reborn.
The Japanese Wisdom Card Deck, especially the cards around ikigai, is a product of that journey. It’s for anyone seeking quiet reflection, direction, and depth.
Final Thoughts
Ikigai isn’t a destination—it’s a practice. And once you get a glimpse of it, life feels more rooted, meaningful, and energizing. If you’ve been feeling stuck or directionless, start by asking: What lights me up? How can I serve the world with it?P.S. The Japanese Wisdom Card Deck is designed to help you explore concepts like ikigai, wabi-sabi, kaizen, and more—one mindful card at a time.