Ikigai by Francesc Miralles and Hector Garcia

"Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life" by Francesc Miralles and Hector Garcia is a profound exploration of life's purpose through the Japanese concept of Ikigai.

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1. Discover Your Ikigai

Ikigai, a Japanese concept, can be understood as your reason for being or the thing that gets you up in the morning. It lies at the intersection of what you love, what the world needs, what you can be paid for, and what you're good at. Discovering your Ikigai can give your life more purpose and direction.

"Our Ikigai is different for all of us, but one thing we have in common is that we are all searching for meaning." - Francesc Miralles and Hector Garcia

2. Stay Active and Don't Retire

In the Okinawan language, there's no word for 'retirement'. The idea is to remain active and keep doing what you love for as long as you physically can. It's one of the secrets to a long, happy, and fulfilling life.

"Only staying active will make you want to live a hundred years." - Japanese proverb

3. Live in the Moment

Ikigai also involves the practice of living in the moment. It encourages you to focus on the present and fully enjoy and engage in each activity, whether it's work, social interactions, or leisure activities.

"When you live in the present, you are living where life is happening." - Francesc Miralles and Hector Garcia

4. Take It Slow

In today's fast-paced world, the Japanese philosophy of "slow living" can feel counterintuitive. But it's a reminder to appreciate life's small pleasures, the beauty in everyday moments, and to not rush through them.

"Fast is slow, but without interruptions." - Zen proverb

5. Nourish Your Relationships

Cultivating and maintaining strong relationships is a key element of Ikigai. This includes relationships with family, friends, and community. Strong social connections can contribute to happiness and longevity.

"The secret is smiling and having a good time." - 102-year-old Okinawan woman

6. Stay Healthy

A balanced diet and regular physical activity are essential for a long and healthy life. Embrace daily routines that support your physical well-being.

"A healthy mind lives in a healthy body." - Japanese Proverb

7. Embrace Wabi-sabi

Wabi-sabi is a Japanese aesthetic concept that sees beauty in imperfection and transience. Embracing wabi-sabi helps us appreciate the beauty in the natural cycle of growth and decay, and in the imperfect aspects of relationships and life.

"In the culture of the West, we spend so much time waiting for the ideal that we make ourselves miserable." - Francesc Miralles and Hector Garcia

8. Practice Gratitude

Practicing gratitude is a significant part of Ikigai. It involves acknowledging the good in your life and can lead to positive emotions, happiness, and satisfaction.

"Gratitude for every day and year that passes is another key to longevity in Japan." - Francesc Miralles and Hector Garcia

9. Surround Yourself with Good Things

Surround yourself with things that bring you joy. This can be as simple as a book you love, a plant that brings you peace, or a photo that brings back happy memories.

"The things that light you up are not random. They are connected to your purpose. Follow them." - Francesc Miralles and Hector Garcia

10. Never Stop Learning

Lifelong learning is key to a fulfilling life. Whether it's a new skill, a new language, or a new sport, keep challenging your mind to stay sharp and engaged.