Life often presents us with challenges, external expectations, and societal pressures. In these moments, our personal values act as a compass, guiding us toward the right decisions and shaping our relationships.
Research shows that people who align their lives with their values experience greater inner peace, lower stress levels, and a higher sense of fulfillment. But how can we identify our true values and use them as a guide in everyday life? This is where the Japanese concept of Ikigai can help.
What are values and why do they matter?
Simply put, values are the core principles that define what is truly important to us. They are like an internal rulebook, helping us distinguish between right and wrong and shaping our behavior.
Studies suggest that there are ten universal values that most people share, including love, freedom, justice, and security. These values influence how we make decisions and respond to different situations in life.
How values impact your life
When you understand and live according to your values, you become more confident, less uncertain, and more decisive.
- If family is a core value, you will prioritize quality time with loved ones over unnecessary work stress.
- If health is important to you, you will naturally make better choices regarding nutrition and exercise.
Research also shows that people who live in alignment with their values experience greater happiness and lower anxiety levels. This is because they are less concerned with external approval and more focused on what truly matters to them.
But how do we uncover our real values and integrate them into our daily lives? Ikigai provides a practical framework for this.
Ikigai – finding purpose through your values
Ikigai is a Japanese concept that translates to "reason for being" – it represents what motivates us to get up in the morning. It helps us connect our values, passions, and skills to create a fulfilling life.
It is based on four key questions:
- What do you love? – What truly excites and fulfills you?
- What are you good at? – What are your natural talents and strengths?
- What does the world need? – How can you contribute to the world around you?
- What can you be paid for? – What provides you with stability and growth?
When these four areas overlap, you find your inner compass, guiding you to make authentic and fulfilling life choices.
How to discover and live by your values
If you're unsure about your core values, here are some steps to help you clarify them:
- Reflect on what truly matters – What brings you joy? When do you feel most like yourself?
- Observe your decisions – What influences your most important choices?
- Write down your values – Select three to five values that resonate with you the most.
- Align your actions with your values – Ask yourself daily: Am I living in accordance with my values?
Try this exercise:
Take a sheet of paper and draw four circles representing Ikigai. Write down at least three answers for each category and identify where your passions, values, and skills intersect. That’s where your true purpose lies.
Your values are your roots – they keep you grounded and help you grow. When you know and honor them, you feel more fulfilled, confident, and strong from within.
Take the time to connect with yourself and uncover what truly matters to you. And if you want to go deeper in your journey toward inner stability, use Ikigai as a tool to find your true direction.
What values guide your life? :)
