Wave Goodbye to the Kids, Say Hello to Rediscovering Your Ikigai

It’s that time of year: the car is packed to the brim, your child nestled among boxes of essentials and enough instant noodles to feed a small army, and you’re setting off on the annual pilgrimage to university.

As you watch them embark on a journey of discovery and growth, have you ever paused to consider your own path? This could be the perfect moment to reconnect with something deeply meaningful—the Japanese concept of Ikigai, or “reason for being.”

You might think finding your Ikigai is reserved for the young or those at a career crossroads, but it’s never too late. In fact, embracing it later in life can be incredibly fulfilling. Studies have shown that people who discover their Ikigai not only experience greater happiness but also enjoy improved health and longevity.

Why now is the perfect time:

1. Rediscover Passion: With a bit more time on your hands, explore what genuinely excites and motivates you.

2. Leverage Life Experience: Your journey so far has equipped you with unique skills and insights—the perfect ingredients for finding your Ikigai.

3. Enrich Learning: Pursuing new knowledge becomes even more rewarding when it aligns with your purpose.

4. Inspire Your Children: Show them that growth and discovery are lifelong pursuits.

Interesting Fact: In Okinawa, Japan—famous for its high number of centenarians—Ikigai is considered a key factor in their longevity. Residents believe that having a clear purpose can add years to your life.

These themes resonate deeply with the insights shared in “Mastery in Five Rings,” a book I’ve co-authored that blends timeless wisdom with modern perspectives to support your journey of lifelong learning and personal growth.
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And here’s something special: we’ve created an audio version on YouTube, narrated by AI versions of Miyamoto Musashi and myself. It’s like having a conversation that bridges centuries!

👉 Begin your journey by downloading “Mastery in Five Rings” for free here: [https://amzn.eu/d/fxnsfy7]

🎧 Prefer listening? Experience the audio version here: [https://youtu.be/SuLRao1368I]

👉 Students can pick up a free copy from the School

As you drive back from the university drop-off with a car that’s a bit lighter but a heart full of possibilities, consider this not just the start of your child’s next chapter, but yours as well. Embracing your Ikigai could be the most rewarding adventure you’ve embarked on yet.

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