The Intersection of Passion and Ikigai
In life and in business, the relentless pursuit of success often leads to a profound question: What truly drives us? Is it passion alone, or is there something deeper? As a seasoned leader in industry , I have come to appreciate the nuances of this journey and the importance of finding true purpose in our work. In recent discussions, thought leaders like Dan Cable and Paul Graham have highlighted the importance of "following your blisters" and "following your curiosity." These phrases encapsulate the idea that our most fulfilling endeavors often emerge from the challenges we willingly tackle, even when they test our limits. But this is merely one side of the coin. To reach a state of fulfillment, we must consider the Japanese concept of ikigai , which elegantly marries what we love, what we’re good at, what the world needs, and what we can be compensated for. It’s in this intersection that we find genuine purpose—a place where passion alone isn’t enough, and where...