1.

1 HUMAN LIFE: A GENERAL OVERVIEW

Human life is a multifaceted journey characterized by the pursuit of satisfaction
and happiness. People navigate different dimensions of existence and seek
fulfillment between the physical, emotional, social and existential realms. The
pursuit of satisfaction and happiness is influenced by countless factors,
including personal circumstances, relationships, health, and socioeconomic
conditions.

At the heart of human life is the search for well-being and meaning.
Contentment and happiness are often associated with meeting basic needs such
as access to food, shelter and safety. But beyond these important things, people
seek deeper sources of satisfaction and happiness, including:

 Personal Fulfillment: People derive satisfaction from pursuing their

passions, hobbies, and interests. Engaging in activities that align with
one's values, talents, and aspirations fosters a sense of purpose and
accomplishment.

 Social Connections: Relationships play a vital role in human happiness.

Meaningful connections with family, friends, and communities provide
support, belonging, and emotional fulfillment. Social interactions and
shared experiences contribute to a sense of connection and well-being.

 Health and Well-being: Physical and mental health significantly impact

one's overall satisfaction and happiness. Maintaining good health through
exercise, nutrition, sleep, and stress management promotes vitality and
resilience, enhancing quality of life.

 Achievement and Success: Accomplishments, milestones, and

recognition contribute to feelings of satisfaction and fulfillment. Setting
and achieving goals, whether in personal, professional, or academic
domains, fosters a sense of competence and self-esteem.

 Purpose and Meaning: Finding meaning in life involve a deeper

exploration of existential questions and values. Individuals derive
 satisfaction from contributing to something larger than themselves,
whether through meaningful work, service to others, or spiritual pursuits.
.

The measurement of satisfaction and happiness is often assessed through

various indices and surveys, capturing subjective well-being across different
populations and cultures. Factors such as income, education, social support, and
governance influence overall happiness levels within societies.

Ultimately, the pursuit of satisfaction and happiness is a deeply personal and

subjective journey. While external circumstances and societal factors play a
role, individuals have agency in shaping their own well-being through
conscious choices, attitudes, and behaviors. Cultivating gratitude, resilience,
and self-awareness can empower individuals to navigate life's challenges and
find greater satisfaction and happiness along the way.

1.2 WORLD HAPPINESS INDEX – INDIA

The World Happiness Report 2023 showed India's ranking in global happiness
rankings. India ranked at 126th out of 146 nations. Despite the challenges, India
has seen improvement due to several factors affecting happiness such as
economic growth, social progress and government initiatives. However, the
report may highlight persistent issues such as income inequality, social cohesion
and mental health that can affect overall levels of happiness. It would be
interesting to delve into the details of the report to understand India's progress
and areas that need attention.

1.3 CHALLENGES FACED BY AN INDIVIDUAL

Human life is a multifaceted journey characterized by a quest for satisfaction
and happiness. Individuals navigate various dimensions of existence, seeking
fulfillment across physical, emotional, social, and existential domains. The
pursuit of satisfaction and happiness is influenced by a myriad of factors,
including personal circumstances, relationships, health, and socio-economic
conditions.
At its core, human life revolves around the pursuit of well-being and meaning.
Satisfaction and happiness are often linked to the fulfilment of basic needs, such
as access to food, shelter, and safety. However, beyond these essentials,
individuals seek deeper sources of satisfaction and happiness, including:

 Self-Discovery: Many individuals struggle with self-discovery, finding it

difficult to identify their true passions and talents. Without a clear
understanding of what brings them joy and fulfilment, they may feel lost
or uncertain about their life's purpose.

 Time Constraints: Balancing multiple responsibilities such as work,

family, and personal commitments can leave individuals with limited time
and energy to pursue their interests. Busy schedules and competing
demands may hinder their ability to dedicate time to activities they are
passionate about.

 Fear of Failure: Fear of failure or rejection can prevent individuals from

fully committing to their interests and taking risks. This fear may stem
from concerns about not being successful or not meeting societal
expectations, leading to hesitation in pursuing their passions.

 Financial Pressures: Economic considerations often influence

individuals' career choices and lifestyle decisions. Financial constraints
may compel them to prioritize stability and security over pursuing their
interests, particularly if they perceive their passions as less economically
viable.

 Social and Cultural Norms: Societal norms and cultural expectations

can shape individuals' perceptions of success and happiness. Pressure to
conform to societal standards or meet familial expectations may lead
individuals to prioritize practicality over following their passions.

 Work-Life Balance: Work-Life Balance: Achieving work-life balance is

critical to overall well-being. However, many people struggle to maintain
this balance because work-related stress and long hours interfere with
their ability to pursue their interests outside of work.
 Lack of Support: Surrounding oneself with a supportive network of
friends, family, and mentors can facilitate personal growth and
exploration. However, individuals may face challenges if they lack
encouragement or support from their social environment, making it
harder to pursue their passions.

1.4 PHILOSOPHIES FOLLOWED FOR IMPROVEMENT

Here are some philosophies and concepts that can contribute to improving
human life:

 Stoicism: Stoicism is an ancient Greek philosophy that emphasizes

personal virtue, self-control, resilience, and acceptance of the things
we cannot change. It teaches individuals to focus on what is within
their control and to cultivate inner tranquillity regardless of external
circumstances. Stoicism encourages individuals to live in accordance
with reason, virtue, and nature, leading to a more balanced and
contented life.

 Hygge: Hygge is a Danish concept that centres around coziness,

comfort, and contentment in everyday life. It promotes the enjoyment
of simple pleasures, such as spending time with loved ones, savouring
good food, and creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Hygge
encourages mindfulness and appreciation of the present moment,
fostering feelings of well-being and connection.

 Wabi-sabi: Wabi-sabi is a Japanese aesthetic philosophy that

celebrates imperfection, transience, and the beauty of the natural
world. It encourages individuals to embrace the beauty in simplicity,
authenticity, and the passage of time. Wabi-sabi teaches acceptance of
life's imperfections and encourages a deeper appreciation for the
inherent beauty found in everyday experiences.

 Existentialism: Existentialism is a philosophical movement that

explores the individual's experience of existence and the search for
meaning in an uncertain and often absurd world. It emphasizes
 personal freedom, responsibility, and the importance of creating one's
own meaning in life. Existentialism encourages individuals to confront
the inherent challenges and uncertainties of existence with courage
and authenticity.

 Mindfulness: Mindfulness is a practice rooted in Buddhist philosophy

that involves paying attention to the present moment with openness,
curiosity, and acceptance. It encourages individuals to cultivate
awareness of their thoughts, feelings, and sensations without
judgment. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and mindful
breathing, can help reduce stress, enhance well-being, and promote
greater clarity and insight into one's life.

 Ikigai: This Japanese term means "reason for being" or "purpose of

life". It emphasizes finding activities or hobbies that bring joy,
meaning, and fulfilment and are consistent with values and abilities.

Each of these philosophies offers unique perspectives and tools for enhancing
one's human life. When combined with Ikigai, they contribute to a holistic
approach to well-being, guiding individuals toward greater fulfilment,
resilience, and authenticity in their life journeys. So now we are going to learn
more about IKIGAI.
 2.1 INTRODUCTION TO IKIGAI

Fig 1. Representing an overview of IKIGAI through Venn Diagram

Ikigai is a Japanese word that means "a reason to live". It's a concept that
encourages people to find what matters to them and live a life filled with
purpose and joy. The word is a combination of two Japanese words: "iki"
which means "to live" and "gai" which means "reason".

2.2 UNDERSTANDING SECRETS TO LIFE BY IKIGAI

The 80 percent secret: One of the most common sayings in Japan is “Hara
Hachi Bu,” which is repeated before or after eating and means something like
“Fill your belly to 80 percent.” Ancient wisdom advises against eating until we
are full. This is why Okinawans stop eating when they feel their stomachs reach
80 percent of their capacity, rather than overeating and wearing down their
bodies with long digestive processes that accelerate cellular oxidation.

Active mind, youthful body: There is much wisdom in the classic saying
“mens sana in corpore sano” (“a There is much wisdom in the classic saying
“mens sana in corpore sano” (“a sound mind in a sound body”): It reminds us
that both mind and body are important, and that the health of one is connected
to that of the other. It has been shown that maintaining an active, adaptable
mind is one of the key factors in staying young.

Stress: Accused of killing longevity Many people seem older than they are.
Research into the causes of premature aging has shown that stress has a lot to do
with it, because the body wears down much faster during periods of crisis. The
American Institute of Stress investigated this degenerative process and
concluded that most health problems are caused by stress.

Table 1. Showing difference between Cage dwellers and Modern Humans

Cave Dwellers Modern Humans

Were relaxed most of the time. Work most of the time and are alert to any
and all threats.

Felt stress only in very specific situations. Are online or waiting for notifications from
their cell phones twenty-four hours a day.

The threats were real: A predator could end The brain associates the ping of a cell phone
their lives at any moment. or an e-mail notification with the threat of a
predator.

High doses or cortisol and adrenaline at Low doses of cortisol flow constantly
moments of danger kept the body healthy. through the body, with the implications for a
range of health problems, including adrenal
fatigue and chronic fatigues syndrome.

Be mindful about reducing stress Whether or not the threats we perceive are
real, stress is an easily identifiable condition that not only causes anxiety but is
also highly psychosomatic, affecting everything from our digestive system to
our skin. This is why prevention is so important in avoiding the toll that stress
takes on us—and why many experts recommend practicing mindfulness. The
central premise of this stress-reduction method is focusing on the self: noticing
our responses, even if they are conditioned by habit, in order to be fully
conscious of them. In this way, we connect with the here and now and limit
thoughts that tend to spiral out of control.
As Easy as Getting out of Your Chair “Metabolism slows down 90 percent
after 30 minutes of sitting. The enzymes that move the bad fat from your
arteries to your muscles, where it can get burned off, slow down. And after two
hours, good cholesterol drops 20 percent. Just getting up for five minutes is
going to get things going again. These things are so simple they’re almost
stupid,” says Gavin Bradley 1 in a 2015 interview with Brigid Schulte for the
Washington Post. 2 Bradley is one of the preeminent experts on the subject, and
the director of an international organization dedicated to building awareness of
how detrimental sitting all the time can be to our health.

2.3 TECHNIQUES TO KEEP YOUR BODY AWAKE BY IKIGAI

Radio taiso: This morning warm-up has been around since before World War
II. The “radio” part of its name is from when the instructions for each exercise
were transmitted over the radio, but today people usually do these movements
while tuned to a television channel or Internet video demonstrating the steps.

Fig 2. Depicting poses of RADIO TAISO

Sun Salutation:

Fig 3. Depicting poses of SUN SALUTATION

2.4 THE TEN RULES OF IKIGAI:
1. Stay active; don’t retire. Those who give up the things they love doing and
do well lose their purpose in life. That’s why it’s so important to keep doing
things of value, making progress, bringing beauty or utility to others, helping
out, and shaping the world around you, even after your “official” professional
activity has ended.

2. Take it slow. Being in a hurry is inversely proportional to quality of life. As

the old saying goes, “Walk slowly and you’ll go far.” When we leave urgency
behind, life and time take on new meaning.

3. Don’t fill your stomach. Less is more when it comes to eating for long life,
too. According to the 80 percent rule, in order to stay healthier longer, we
should eat a little less than our hunger demands instead of stuffing ourselves.

4. Surround yourself with good friends. Friends are the best medicine, there
for confiding worries over a good chat, sharing stories that brighten your day,
getting advice, having fun, dreaming . . . in other words, living.

5. Get in shape for your next birthday. Water moves; it is at its best when it
flows fresh and doesn’t stagnate. The body you move through life in needs a bit
of daily maintenance to keep it running for a long time. Plus, exercise releases
hormones that make us feel happy.

6. Smile. A cheerful attitude is not only relaxing—it also helps make friends.
It’s good to recognize the things that aren’t so great, but we should never forget
what a privilege it is to be in the here and now in a world so full of possibilities.

7. Reconnect with nature. Though most people live in cities these days, human
beings are made to be part of the natural world. We should return to it often to
recharge our batteries.

8. Give thanks. To your ancestors, to nature, which provides you with the air
you breathe and the food you eat, to your friends and family, to everything that
brightens your days and makes you feel lucky to be alive. Spend a moment
every day giving thanks, and you’ll watch your stockpile of happiness grow.

9. Live in the moment. Stop regretting the past and fearing the future. Today is
all you have. Make the most of it. Make it worth remembering.
10. Follow your ikigai. There is a passion inside you, a unique talent that gives
meaning to your days and drives you to share the best of yourself until the very
end. If you don’t know what your ikigai is yet, as Viktor Frankl says, your
mission is to discover it

2.5 IKIGAI IN REAL LIFE AND JAPANESE PEOPLE

Ikigai isn’t necessarily about your work (you weren’t born to work):

 “In a survey of 2,000 Japanese men and women conducted by

Central Research Services in 2010, just 31% of recipients
considered work as their ikigai. Someone’s value in life can be work
– but is certainly not limited to that.” — BBC

There is evidence in the fact that many Japanese people keep pursuing their
ikigai until the end of their lives:

 “Many Japanese people never really retire—they keep doing what

they love for as long as their health allows.”

Other than work, ikigai can be family, a dream, or simply the spiritual feeling
that life is worth living:

 “Ikigai may be conceived of either as the ‘object’ that makes one’s

life seem worth living (ikigai taishō)—one’s work or family or
dream—or as the feeling that life is worth living (ikigai kan).”
 “The word ‘ikigai’ is usually used to indicate the source of value in
one’s life or the things that make one’s life worthwhile (for
example, one might say: ‘This child is my ikigai’). Secondly, the
word is used to refer to mental and spiritual circumstances under
which individuals feel that their lives are valuable.
This is a big difference compared to other models for life purpose:

IKIGAI STOICISM

Origin: Stoicism originated in

Origin: Ikigai is a Japanese concept
ancient Greece, but it was
that roughly translates to "a reason
popularized in ancient Rome. It was
for being" or "a reason to wake up in
founded by philosophers such as
the morning."
Zeno of Citium.
Meaning: Stoicism is a philosophy
Meaning: It revolves around finding
that teaches the development of self-
a balance between what you love,
control, resilience, and virtue as a
what you are good at, what the world
means of overcoming destructive
needs, and what you can be paid for.
emotions and finding inner peace.
In essence, it's about finding your
purpose in life.
Focus: Stoicism focuses on accepting
the things we cannot change,
Focus: Ikigai emphasizes the pursuit
focusing on what is within our
of happiness and fulfillment through
control, and living in accordance
the alignment of personal passion,
with nature and reason.
mission, vocation, and profession.

Application: Stoicism teaches

practices like negative visualization
Application: People seeking ikigai
(preparing for the worst),
often engage in self-reflection to
understanding the dichotomy of
identify these four elements and
control (focusing only on what we
strive to live a life that harmonizes
can control), and practicing gratitude
them.
and self-discipline.

2.6 HOW TO INITIATE AND FOLLOW IKIGAI

 Fig 4. Venn Diagram showing overview of IKIGAI

There is an order and priority/weighting to the circles—starting with #1 (the

largest circle) and moving clockwise because each step is a filter for the prior
circle. Moving counter clockwise offers a good system of checks & balances to
“pressure test” yourself.

#1 (Largest Circle) — What You Love / Are Deeply Passionate About

#2 (Medium Circle) — What You Are Encoded For (Genetic Talent / Gift)
#3 (Smaller Circle) — What The World And / Or Humanity Needs

How this works:

– You must love something (#1) or #2 and #3 will not have the necessary
fuel/energy you need for the long haul (Example: I stopped competitive running
when I lost the love for it. Not saying that I was necessarily genetically encoded
for running or that it was good for humanity or the world, but #1 become a
dealbreaker for the rest of the process. You often hear this with professional
athletes who are genetically talented/gifted but the flame of passion burns out.
Talent isn’t enough if you don’t love it.).

– On the flip side, if you love something (#1) but are not talented/gifted for it
(#2), it most likely won’t work (Example: I love music, but I’m not musically-
inclined whatsoever. I practiced piano for awhile growing up but didn’t stick
with it. I could build skills, but skills aren’t the same as talents/gifts—which
we’ll cover in this post).

– If you love something (#1) and are talented/gifted (#2), it could manifest as
ego or unhealthy selfishness if not considered through the lens of humanity or
the world (#3). In theory, you shouldn’t get into this situation if you are honestly
grounding yourself in being from the get-go, but it’s a good double check
nonetheless.

– That being said, do start with yourself (#1 & #2) before humanity and/or the
world (#3).

2.7 CASE STUDY

1. Athletics: Michael Jordan
Michael Jordan, often regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time,
found his ikigai in the intersection of his love for the game, his remarkable
athletic ability, the entertainment it brought to millions, and his rewarding
career both on and off the court through endorsements and business ventures.
2. Philanthropy: Mother Teresa
Mother Teresa's ikigai lay in her compassionate service to the poorest of the
poor. Her vocation was her calling to help others, which was something that
matched her passion for serving humanity. In a way, she found purpose in filling
a crucial need in the world, which became her life-long mission, transcending
any traditional profession.
3. Arts: Frida Kahlo
Frida Kahlo found her ikigai in expressing her identity and experiences through
activities like painting. Despite facing personal adversities, her passion for art
was evident in her works that resonated with people's struggles and emotions.
Through her art, she could connect with the world on a deep level, fulfilling her
mission and sustaining her profession in life.
CONCLUSION
Our ikigai is different for all of us, but one thing we have in common is that we
are all searching for meaning. When we spend our days feeling connected to
what is meaningful to us, we live more fully; when we lose the connection, we
feel despair. Modern life estranges us more and more from our true nature,
making it very easy for us to lead lives lacking in meaning. Powerful forces and
incentives (money, power, attention, success) distract us on a daily basis; don’t
let them take over your life. Our intuition and curiosity are very powerful
internal compasses to help us connect with our ikigai.