Shoshin Sunday #45: Your job doesn't need to be your purpose
Hey friends,
If I only had your attention for 30 seconds and wanted to imprint one idea on you, it would be to stop thinking your job needs to be your purpose.
There’s so much more to life than how you make money.
Some of you might have heard of the Japanese concept of Ikigai which is supposedly finding something in life that:
You love
You’re good at
You can be paid for
The world needs
Yet this isn’t ikigai at all. It’s a viral meme and has nothing to do with how the Japanese see it.
Only 31% of Japanese people consider their job their ikigai. Others choose friends, family, hobbies, and even pets.
The term has been distorted in the West from its origin of what brings you joy in your daily life.
I enjoy what I do for work but I certainly don’t live for it and it’s ok if you don’t either.
Instead of trying to discover your purpose in life, think about what brings you joy.
If you love dancing then dance.
If you love singing then sing.
If you love spending time with people you love, then do that!
Who cares if what makes you happy, doesn’t make you money (though it’s convenient if it does).
If you can cover your bills then work to live, don’t live to work.
Have a wonderful week,
Amar
My best stuff this week:
5 Traits of People Worth Looking Up To
Mindful & Driven podcast with Raj Mendhir, the founder of non-profit EdTech platform EqWipped.
Evan Spiegel: The Billionaire Who Can Admit It Wasn’t All Hard work
The Dirty Truth Is Quitting My Job Wasn’t A Huge Risk
How Making Time To Do Good Can Help You Find Balance
This week’s book recommendation:
The Four Pillar Plan By Dr. Rangan Chatterjee
I love when people can give simple yet effective advice. This book is great for anyone struggling with balance in their lives with quick exercises that can be used to boost your mood and health.
Something random:
Did you know there are actually eight continents, not seven?