IKIGAI

The book brilliantly flips the idea that purpose must be this huge world-changing epiphany. Instead, it nudges you to find joy in the small things-daily habits, hobbies, moments with loved ones. It’s like a little reminder that purpose isn’t some far-off goal, but something you cultivate every day. This hit home for me: finding happiness in the now, instead of constantly chasing the next big thing. It made me rethink how purpose could be something fluid, something that evolves with time, rather than a fixed destination.

It leaned a bit too much into romanticizing Japanese philosophy without diving deep into the cultural nuances behind it. I was hoping for more concrete, actionable advice, but instead, Ikigai feels more like an invitation to reflect and ask the right questions. Maybe that’s not a bad thing, though!

Ikigai doesn’t do the heavy lifting of figuring out your life purpose for you, but it gives you a peaceful framework to start that journey. It gently encourages you to slow down, enjoy life’s small pleasures, and stop obsessing over the “big picture.” In the end, the book is like a cozy guide whispering that maybe your purpose has been with you all along hidden in those tiny moments that bring you joy.

Am I still searching for my ultimate purpose? Yup.

But Ikigai taught me that maybe that’s okay. The journey itself can be just as fulfilling as the destination.