Discover the enchanting concept of *ikigai*, the Japanese philosophy that intertwines passion, mission, vocation, and profession to unveil your life’s purpose. Set against the backdrop of Okinawa, one of the world’s longest-living communities, this book reveals the secrets behind their vibrant longevity and happiness. Through captivating stories and insightful practices, you'll learn how to cultivate joy and resilience in your daily life. Dive into the art of mindfulness, community connection, and embracing simplicity, as you embark on a transformative journey to uncover your true calling. Are you ready to unlock the secret to a fulfilling life?
By Héctor García, Francesc Miralles
Published: 2017
"“The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience.”"
INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER • 2 MILLION+ COPIES SOLD WORLDWIDE “Workers looking for more fulfilling positions should start by identifying their ikigai.” ―Business Insider “One of the unintended—yet positive—consequences of the [pandemic] is that it is forcing people to reevaluate their jobs, careers, and lives. Use this time wisely, find your personal ikigai, and live your best life.” ―Forbes Find your ikigai (pronounced ee-key-guy) to live longer and bring more meaning and joy to all your days. “Only staying active will make you want to live a hundred years.” —Japanese proverb According to the Japanese, everyone has an ikigai—a reason for living. And according to the residents of the Japanese village with the world’s longest-living people, finding it is the key to a happier and longer life. Having a strong sense of ikigai—where what you love, what you’re good at, what you can get paid for, and what the world needs all overlap—means that each day is infused with meaning. It’s the reason we get up in the morning. It’s also the reason many Japanese never really retire (in fact there’s no word in Japanese that means retire in the sense it does in English): They remain active and work at what they enjoy, because they’ve found a real purpose in life—the happiness of always being busy. In researching this book, the authors interviewed the residents of the Japanese village with the highest percentage of 100-year-olds—one of the world’s Blue Zones. Ikigai reveals the secrets to their longevity and happiness: how they eat, how they move, how they work, how they foster collaboration and community, and—their best-kept secret—how they find the ikigai that brings satisfaction to their lives. And it provides practical tools to help you discover your own ikigai. Because who doesn’t want to find happiness in every day?
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““The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience.””
Ikigai
By Héctor García, Francesc Miralles
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Héctor García is a celebrated author and journalist, widely recognized for his insightful explorations of cultural and societal themes. Born in Mexico and currently residing in Spain, García’s background enriches his narratives, which often blend personal anecdotes with broader cultural analyses. His notable works include "Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life," co-authored with Francesc Miralles, which delves into the Japanese concept of finding purpose and joy in life, and has gained international acclaim for its accessible guidance on well-being.
García is known for his engaging writing style that combines conversational language with profound philosophical insights, making complex ideas relatable to a wide audience. With a focus on the intersection of culture, happiness, and personal fulfillment, his contributions extend beyond literature into the realms of wellness and self-discovery. Through his works, García continues to inspire readers to explore their own paths to fulfillment.
Francesc Miralles is a renowned Spanish author and essayist, acclaimed for his contributions to contemporary literature and self-help. Born in 1968 in Barcelona, Miralles has a diverse background in journalism and has penned numerous novels, essays, and children's books. His writing is known for its lyrical prose, philosophical depth, and exploration of themes such as identity, spirituality, and interpersonal connections.
Among his notable works are "Love in Lowercase" (original title: "Amor en minúsculas"), which has garnered international acclaim for its charming narrative and poignant reflections on love and life. Another significant work is "The Time of the Soul" (original title: "El tiempo de las almas"), a philosophical exploration that delves into the nature of existence and personal growth.
Miralles often combines elements of magical realism with introspective storytelling, inviting readers to connect with the inner workings of the human experience. His unique ability to blend fiction with philosophical inquiry has made him a prominent voice in modern literature. Beyond his writing, Miralles is also a sought-after speaker and workshop leader, sharing his insights on creativity and mindfulness.
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