Ikigai is a Japanese concept representing the pursuit of balance among purpose, meaning, self-awareness, and self-realization (PMSS). It’s the harmony of these elements that leads to a fulfilling life, especially when one’s work aligns with them. Often referred to as finding one’s bliss, calling, or “inner genius,” the four elements of PMSS are interrelated yet unique. Together, they give us a reason to get out of bed each day, guiding our lives and enriching our connections to others. Without these components, people often face a life of confusion, chaos, pain, and even a sense of emptiness and perhaps suffering.

Historically, career choice has often shaped a person’s identity, with individuals feeling invisible or inadequate when career titles are lost, changed, or remain unachieved. This pressure is intensified in American culture, where respect is frequently tied to socioeconomic status, adding to the struggle of those who may feel disconnected from their purpose. Many Americans experience a lack of purpose and meaning, often heightened in later life stages. Retirees, for instance, may struggle to redefine themselves when they leave careers that once framed their identities, impacting their sense of place at home and in family life. Similarly, losing a spouse or loved one can erode this sense of purpose. For some, volunteering or public service becomes a way to revive their meaning and direction.

I remember many of my martial arts mentors speaking of the importance of understanding that we “earn” our lives through service to others. Demanding respect through fear or gaining recognition without earning, does not produce true meaning or purpose. Participation trophies usually don’t help to pay the bills. We earn the life we till, seed, and harvest. What can be considered as a higher calling other than helping, teaching, and nurturing others to become better versions of themselves? To take this concept to another level of meaning and purpose in terms of spirituality, I have learned the term gong dao wei shen (功德为神) which is rooted in Chinese philosophical and spiritual traditions. However, the exact expression isn’t commonly cited. I can attempt to break it down:

1. 功德 (gong de) — This translates to “merit” or “karmic merit” in the sense of virtue accumulated through good deeds and moral actions. In traditional Chinese thought and in Buddhism, gong de is the spiritual merit or positive karma gained through altruistic actions, spiritual practice, and moral conduct.
2. 为 (wei) — This can mean “for” or “as” in this context, often used to imply that the merit serves or benefits something.
3. 神 (shen) — This translates to “spirit” or “divine” and can imply a higher spiritual state or connection with the divine.

功德 为 神

Consequently, gong dao wei shen could be loosely interpreted as “acquiring karmic merit for spiritual elevation or connection to the divine.” This phrase might not appear in ancient texts directly but reflects the concept of dedicating good deeds or spiritual work to elevate one’s spiritual state, aligning with Chinese philosophies of moral virtue impacting one’s spiritual development.

Grasping these aspects of PMSS early on benefits not only individuals but also communities and society as a whole. However, finding this balance isn’t something that can be bought or easily read about; it takes time, life experiences, a genuine desire, and self-reflection to develop. In this way, one’s personal sense of ikigai or PMSS truly takes shape through a lifelong journey of discovery and growth.

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Jim Moltzan