I subscribe to a great ‘word of the day’ list from Anu Garg. Everyday she sends a word out with definitions and usage. Sometimes they’re topical,… other times funny. I look forward to it every day.. Todays word was “ikigai”.. a Japanese word that roughly translates “reason for being”. Here’s the entry for the word from the email.

ikigai

PRONUNCIATION:

(I-ki-gai) 

MEANING:

noun:
1. A sense of purpose or something that gives a sense of purpose; a reason for living.
2. Something that brings fulfillment or enjoyment.

ETYMOLOGY:

From Japanese ikigai (a reason for being), from iki (life) + -gai (worth). Earliest documented use: 1972. The French equivalent is raison d’être.

USAGE:

“Have you found your ikigai? It’s never too late to start on a better path to living.”
Harvey MacKay; Here’s a Design for Living; Arizona Republic (Phoenix); Oct 10, 2022.

The post came with the following graphic

I think it’s a really elegant way to think about your ‘reason for being”..  aside from generally trying to be a good guy.. I think of my reason for being is “making science fun and relevant for others”.. When I think through the 4 lobes of the drawing it really fits…

What’s your ikigai ? 

nite all, nite sam

-me

Ps  Today is my friend Katie’s birthday.. Happy birthday Katie.. You’re amazing !

ps.. I found tipper walking through work with this sign.. pretty cute