Ikigai Book Summary

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.”"

Book Review of Ikigai

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?

Similar books you might like →

Showing 8 of 30 similar books

Similar Book Recommendations →

Hugh Jackman's Book Recommendations

Hugh Jackman, better known for his illustrious acting career, has made significant contributions to literature through his co-authorship of the popular children's book series, "The School of Life." Born in Sydney, Australia, Jackman has seamlessly transitioned from stage and screen to the literary world, captivating young readers with his imaginative storytelling. His work in literature reflects his versatility and dedication to inspiring and educating children. Alongside his wife, Deborra-Lee Furness, Jackman has also been involved in various philanthropic efforts, promoting literacy and education globally. Despite his Hollywood fame, Jackman's contributions to literature highlight his commitment to nurturing young minds.

Memoirs and BiographiesInspiring ReadsEducation

Peter Attia's Book Recommendations

Dr. Peter Attia is a renowned physician specializing in the applied science of longevity and optimal performance. He is the founder of Attia Medical, PC, a medical practice focusing on the applied science of longevity and healthspan. Attia is widely recognized for his deep dives into topics such as nutrition, exercise physiology, sleep physiology, and pharmacology. He is also the host of "The Peter Attia Drive" podcast, where he explores strategies for extending the human lifespan and enhancing well-being. His contributions to literature include insightful articles and his forthcoming book, "Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity," which promises to distill his extensive research and clinical experience into actionable advice.

Health and NutritionWellness WisdomSuccess Stories and Life Lessons

Chip Conley's Book Recommendations

Chip Conley is a renowned American hotelier, author, and strategic advisor celebrated for his innovative approach to hospitality and leadership. He founded Joie de Vivre Hospitality, which became the second-largest boutique hotel company in the United States, and later served as the Head of Global Hospitality and Strategy at Airbnb. Conley has authored several influential books, including "Peak: How Great Companies Get Their Mojo from Maslow" and "Wisdom@Work: The Making of a Modern Elder," which explore themes of leadership, emotional intelligence, and the intergenerational workplace. His writings have inspired many to rethink business practices and the role of wisdom in professional environments. Conley's contributions extend beyond literature, as he is a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the realms of hospitality and personal development.

Business and LeadershipSelf-Improvement

David Sinclair's Book Recommendations

David Sinclair is an Australian biologist and professor at Harvard Medical School, known for his pioneering research in the field of aging and longevity. Sinclair's work focuses on understanding the biological mechanisms that drive aging and developing interventions to slow or reverse the process. His bestselling book Lifespan: Why We Age – and Why We Don’t Have To explores the latest advancements in anti-aging science and offers insights into how humans might extend their healthspan. Sinclair's research has led to breakthroughs in areas such as sirtuins, NAD+ metabolism, and cellular reprogramming. He is also the co-founder of several biotech companies, including Sirtris Pharmaceuticals and Life Biosciences, dedicated to translating aging research into practical treatments. Sinclair is a vocal advocate for taking a proactive approach to aging, promoting lifestyle changes and emerging therapies to delay age-related diseases. His work has made him a leading figure in the longevity movement, influencing both scientific and public discourse on the future of health.

Health and NutritionSelf-ImprovementScience and Nature

Eric Jorgenson's Book Recommendations

Eric Jorgenson is an author, investor, and product strategist best known for his book The Almanack of Naval Ravikant, which distills the wisdom of the entrepreneur and angel investor Naval Ravikant. Jorgenson's work focuses on personal development, wealth creation, and life philosophy. His ability to synthesize complex ideas into actionable insights has made his writing widely popular among entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts. Beyond writing, Jorgenson has worked in product strategy at Zaarly, a marketplace for home services, and is involved in early-stage startup investing. He frequently speaks on the intersection of business, technology, and philosophy, and his blog covers topics ranging from mental models to entrepreneurship. Jorgenson's approach emphasizes learning from others' experiences and applying timeless principles to modern challenges. He continues to inspire a generation of readers with his clear, thoughtful reflections on how to live a more successful and fulfilling life.

Self-ImprovementBusiness and LeadershipLife Advice

Emma Watson's Book Recommendations

Emma Watson is a British actress and activist best known for her role as Hermione Granger in the "Harry Potter" film series, which brought J.K. Rowling's beloved books to life. Beyond her acting career, Watson has made significant contributions to literature by promoting gender equality and women's rights through her work with the United Nations, including the HeForShe campaign. She has also curated and shared book recommendations that highlight feminist literature and diverse voices. Watson graduated from Brown University with a degree in English literature, further emphasizing her dedication to the literary world. Her advocacy and influence have made her a prominent figure in both the entertainment and literary communities.

Women Who LeadInspiring ReadsMemoirs and Biographies

Brendon Burchard's Book Recommendations

Brendon Burchard is a high-performance coach, motivational speaker, and bestselling author, best known for his books High Performance Habits and The Motivation Manifesto. He helps individuals and organizations achieve peak performance through strategies focused on clarity, energy, and productivity. Brendon’s work emphasizes the importance of personal growth and developing habits that lead to sustained success. He has coached Fortune 500 CEOs, Olympians, and other high-achieving individuals. Brendon is also the founder of the High Performance Academy, where he trains people to lead more impactful and successful lives.

Self-ImprovementSuccess Stories and Life LessonsProductivityBusiness and Leadership

Gary Vaynerchuk's Book Recommendations

Gary Vaynerchuk, also known as GaryVee, is a serial entrepreneur, investor, and social media personality. He initially gained prominence through his family’s wine business, turning it into a digital juggernaut with his online content and wine reviews. Gary is now the CEO of VaynerMedia, a full-service digital agency, and has authored multiple bestsellers, including Crush It! and Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook. He is known for his blunt, motivational style and advice on business, marketing, and personal branding. Gary continues to inspire millions with his focus on hustle, entrepreneurship, and leveraging digital platforms for success.

Business and LeadershipSuccess Stories and Life LessonsInspiring Reads

Showing 8 of 24 related collections

“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