The desire to be happy unites us all and the search for it knows no bounds. But as you know there are populations in the world that are happier than others, at least according to studies. One of them is the Japanese one, specifically the inhabitants of the island of Okinawa, who introduced the Japanese people (and now the whole world) to the Ikigai method.

Japanese philosophy aims to identify the meaning of our existence. The term breaks down into "iki" = life and "gai" = meaning. Hector Garcia, co-author of “The Ikigai Method. The secrets of Japanese philosophy for a long and happy life" confessed that there is no theory like this in the world.

Its basis, according to the book and researchers, lies in the ability of each of us to identify our ikigai between the holistic balance that brings together physical and mental health. In this philosophy, body and mind work as one. To prove the success of this method, Okinawans, who have been observed by researchers, are said to live happily precisely because they have followed their desires until they grow old with the same energy. This method avoids anxiety and depression.

How do we find our Ikigai? 

First you need to identify 4 categories of activities and create the diagram.
1. Activities you will do 
2. Activities the world needs 
3. Activities that can get paid
4. Activities you are good at

By thinking and being honest with yourself choose activities that belong to each category and based on them the Ikigai philosophy helps you rebuild your life. But you should not allow yourself to be guided by prejudice or other external factors.