In a world that feels ever more hurried and disjointed, the idea of ikigai - the reason for being - shines out like a beacon of hope. Rooted in Japanese culture and closely associated with the people of Okinawa, a so-called ''Blue Zone'' where residents live incredibly long and, more importantly, fulfilling lives, the true meaning of ikigai is hard to pin down, with many interpretations and wider applications depending on your definition. At its core, however, is a belief that a life lived with purpose and joy, whether that be finding the dream job or savouring a delicious meal with loved ones, leads to greater fulfilment, happiness and wellbeing.

This little book serves as a window into this enigmatic philosophy, exploring its cultural origins and underlying philosophy, some practical tips to integrate it into your own life, as well as some words of wisdom and advice from the preeminent ikigai experts, both ancient and modern. Whether you''re looking for a new direction in life, or seeking more fulfilment in the everyday, this book will shed light on a timeless practice that will help you uncover what truly makes life worth living.

SAMPLE TEXT

"I would describe ikigai as the feeling that we are alive in the here and now, and the individual awareness that drives us to survive."
Professor Akihiro Hasegawa

"When you put your finger on what your ikigai is, it''s like you gain a superpower. It''s like you get a GPS for your life."
Tim Tamashiro

The Japanese word ikigai (ee-key-guy) combines the terms iki, meaning "alive" or "life," with gai, meaning "benefit" or "worth."