While social media can without a doubt be a cesspool of terrible information, occasionally you come across something that is really useful, I found the image above to be just that. So let’s talk about these ideas.

Ikigai – I really love this concept, I think we all do, but it’s a really hard concept to enact in life. While finding all three of these characteristics in a job that also pays the bill is wonderful, most of us do our best to get as close as we can. But I would suggest my friends, is that just because you may not be there now, don’t give up. Maybe like me, you’ll have to hold out to hit all three in retirement, the point is to always keep getting closer to this goal. Which is conveniently the next concept, kaizen.

Kaizen – This is the idea of always just doing a little better. This can be applied to every part of our life. Today, try and eat just a little bit better, exercise a little bit more, get a little more sleep. Consistent incremental change over time can lead to big life changes.

Hara Hachi Bu – Here’s one I really need to learn and need to apply the idea of kaizen to every day. I think it’s hard from me because I grew up tough. If you’ve ever wondered whether or not they’ll be enough to eat tonight, you have a tendency to want to eat until your full. I haven’t been in jeopardy of not getting a full meal in over fifty years, but those childhood traumas are often hard to overcome.

Shoshin – I really think this is the secret to staying young, regardless of your chronological age. Keeping a child-like curiosity, being will to try new things, go on adventures, to do things you are unsure you can do well keeps us learning, growing and smiling.

Oubaitori – Stop trying to keep up with Jones is the way we say it in America. The quickest way to feel bad about yourself is to continue to compare yourself with others. Why? Because we most often compare ourselves to the best and the brightest and no one is the best at everything. Take things in their own time, in a way that best suits you and you’ll live a happier life.

Wabi Sabi – Stop trying to make life so complicated and grandiose. Sure, in America, we’re fond of the phrase, go big or go home it’s what our culture emphasizes and rewards. It’s also in my opinion, one of the reasons that we’re a society full of stress and anxiety. Simplify, relax, enjoy the twists and turns of life, try and enjoy every moment. It’s not easy, I know, but it’s the attempt that counts.

These concepts, pulled together can absolutely help you have a better life and happier days my friends and that’s what matters. ~ Rev Kane