According to National Geographic magazine, some of the happiest and longest-living people in the world live in Okinawa, Japan. Their average lifespan is seven years longer than those who live in North America. 

In their language, there is no word for retirement, but they have a fascinating word they live by on a daily basis: ikigai—pronounced “icky guy.” It roughly translates to “the reason you get out of bed in the morning.” In other words, it’s the thing that drives you the most in life.

Phrases that are associated with ikigai are: what you love; what brings you satisfaction; what you are good at; what the world needs; what motivates you; what brings joy.

Ikigai Responses

We have just come through three years of a global pandemic. It has affected us all, in many different ways: Loss of work. Loss of financial security. Loss of health. In some cases, sadly, loss of life. Young people, as well as adults, are now struggling with debilitating mental-health issues. How do we all cope? What does the future hold? How do we move forward in a positive way, with some kind of renewed hope for the days ahead?

After reading about this unique concept embraced by many in Japan—and especially after living through these last few years—I couldn’t help asking myself, “What is my ikigai? What is the reason for me getting out of bed in the morning? Perhaps you might ask yourself these same questions. The following are a few possible responses:

• Right from the start of each morning, we must try to throw away any negative thoughts in exchange for a positive outlook and attitude. The glass being half full! Thankful for a new day and a fresh start.

• We need to desire a right and pure heart. Jesus said in His Sermon on the Mount, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God” (Matthew 5:8). God wants us to do things with the right motive and intention. Not to bring attention to us or to gain something personally from our actions, but to do things that bring joy to the world at large.

• Showing grace to others is a good thing, giving people the benefit of the doubt. Is this always easy? Perhaps not. But is it the right thing to do? Yes. And, if needed, to forgive others—and then forget. God will help us with this if we simply ask Him. 

• Many people feel isolated and alone. We need to be filled with a desire and passion to reach out to others of all ages, races and backgrounds. Be a good friend and a welcoming presence, and offer a safe place for people to share what is on their heart.

• Our family and friends often give us immense pleasure, a sense of security and satisfaction. How then can we expand these very important relationships to include others—people who desperately long for friendship, for a sense of family?

Attitude of Gratitude

Yes, these past few years have been hard—for everyone. Now is the time for a fresh beginning. Change. Optimism. Hope. 

So the challenge is this: What is our ikigai? What things come immediately to mind that give us renewed energy and excitement for each day?

Proverbs 22:11 says this: “One who loves a pure heart and who speaks with grace will have the king for a friend.”

Whether it’s a king, or more likely someone who is simply very lonely, may we be a friend to others we meet—and always wake up each day with an attitude of gratitude toward Almighty God, the creator of all good things. 

Major Beverly Ivany is a retired Salvation Army pastor and the former writer of Words of Life, a daily Bible reading devotional series published by The Salvation Army.

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