Book Review
By Dr Bibiana Chan with assistance from Chat-GPT
IKIGAI – The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life” by Héctor García & Francesc Miralles
What motivates you to rise each morning? Is it career aspirations or family responsibilities? Perhaps it’s the anticipation of weekend plans or the allure of a fresh cup of coffee. For many, hitting the snooze button becomes a ritual before reluctantly extracting ourselves from the comfort of our sheets. The question of what truly drives us out of bed is a universal ponderance, one that seldom yields a straightforward answer. Perhaps this book will reveal how Japanese answer this question. Ikigai can be translated as ‘the reason for which you wake up in the morning’.
This diagram shows ikigai as the convergence of four areas of life: what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. The very center, where each area overlaps, is your ikigai – your reason for getting up and where you should focus your efforts to find ultimate fulfillment.
This book is a captivating exploration of the ancient Japanese concept of ‘ikigai’ and its profound implications for modern living. This book delves into the essence of finding purpose, joy, and fulfillment in everyday life. Through a blend of Eastern philosophy, scientific research, and personal anecdotes, García and Miralles adeptly navigate readers through the principles and practices of ‘ikigai’, demonstrating its relevance in contemporary society. The authors draw upon the wisdom of Okinawa, a region renowned for its high number of centenarians, to illustrate how living in alignment with one’s ‘ikigai’ contributes to longevity and well-being. They discuss the significance of mindfulness, gratitude, and cultivating strong social connections in nurturing a sense of purpose and happiness. They also described the Japanese Flow,
‘There is no doubt, though, about their ability to be completely absorbed in a task, or about their perseverance when there is a problem to be solved.’
I could definitely relate to this, being brought up in a Chinese culture. ‘Ikigai’ is more than a self-help book; it’s a cultural exploration that invites readers to reflect on their values, passions, and goals.
This book presents complex concepts in a clear and engaging manner. It incorporates real-life examples and interviews adds depth and authenticity to the narrative, making it easy for readers to relate and apply the teachings to their own lives. However, while ‘ikigai’ offers valuable insights, some readers may find its approach simplistic or idealistic. The book’s focus on individual fulfillment may overlook systemic barriers to happiness, such as socioeconomic inequalities or structural injustices.
In conclusion, this book is a thought-provoking read that encourages readers to reassess their priorities and live with intention. Whether you’re seeking personal growth, greater fulfillment, or simply a deeper understanding of Japanese culture, this book offers a wealth of wisdom to inspire and guide you on your journey towards a more meaningful life.
Note: Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience’, flow is “the state in which people are so involved in an activity that nothing else seems to matter: the experience itself is so enjoyable that people will do it even at great cost, for the sheer sake of doing it.
Check out this YouTube clip on “How to live to be 100+?”