Posted in Triplett & Carothers on March 3, 2025
Seniors especially can draw lessons from ikigai in their ongoing search for meaning in later years. Ikigai is more than just happiness. It also embodies a positive anticipation for the future, even when the present is a struggle. The philosophy focuses on the sum of the small joys in life, as well as the more grandiose ones.
Growing old in Japan
Ikigai was originally derived from principles of traditional Japanese medicine, which held that mental and emotional health and a sense of purpose produced physical well-being. The medieval concept was introduced to the West by Hector Garcia, whose book “The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life” has sold more than three million copies since its publication in 2016.
Garcia interviewed over 100 elderly residents in Ogimi Village, Okinawa, a famous center of longevity where inhabitants tend to beat the odds for long lives. He discovered they practiced their ikigai through activities like gardening, art, and gatherings for birthday parties and karaoke with social friends.
The Japanese government has also taken note. A national survey in 2018 found that 47.5% of the country’s citizens aged 70 and older remain engaged in work, hobbies and community activities. The government paid heed and has since beefed up its support of employment and social engagement among seniors.
Discover your purpose
Many retirees need to reexamine the components of their lives as they embark on a new chapter or adventure beyond their years of employment. (Note, however, that similar ideas can also serve younger generations, particularly in the context of choosing a career.)
Garcia and entrepreneur Marc Winn have illustrated the tenets with a well-known Venn diagram that simplifies the elements and intersections as a sweet spot. They have taken the historical Japanese principles and recast them in a Western framework.
The model comprises four elements:
- What you love and enjoy – learning, creating, family, travel and passions when you lose track of time in the flow
- What you are good at – skills like public speaking, talents like painting, vocations, crafts and professional accomplishments
- What others need – helping your community, your employer and humanity to provide goods like health and education
- What you can be paid for – including part-time work, small business projects and consulting
The object of the Venn diagram is to apply these elements to find overlaps and intersections, which define your overall purpose. Everybody has a unique one. You can apply further guideposts, too. Ikigai advocates that you start small, perfecting your work or craft and seeking beauty in the everyday. Experiment and observe with patience and persistence.
Release yourself and try to enter the flow. Athletes speak of the string of moments when they are at their peak performance. Aim to live in harmony and stability with the people around you, society at large and the environment.
Take joy in tiny pleasures. The aroma of brewing coffee. Watching the waves. Being in the here and now.
Ikigai can enrich your day-to-day. It can also help you stay strong even during stressful times and experiences.
A living story
One retiree in particular exemplifies the features of ikigai.
Jiro Ono, who is now 98, was one of the oldest Michelin star chefs in the world. Only recently retired, he ran his renowned restaurant Sukiyabashi Jiro in Tokyo until 2023, when his son took over. Ono, the greatest living sushi craftsman, also invented new cutting tools and procedures geared toward enhancing flavor and freshness. As environmental custodians, the Ono family has taken a stand against overfishing, which might threaten key sushi ingredients.
Although the restaurant only has 10 seats, Ono’s dedication and relentless pursuit of his craft have created a legend. Retirees everywhere can find inspiration in their work and discipline.
Reach out to Roz Carothers and her team at Triplett & Carothers to learn more.
©2025
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