Think of what you love to do
Jot those things down, one or two
Think of skills where you excel
Not half-bad, but really well
Think of things for which you’re paid
Perhaps in money or in trade
Now think of what the world needs most —
Is something there of which you boast?
Where those things meet is ikigai*
Find that thing; your soul will fly
*ee-kee-guy
This is my response to this week’s W3 prompt, which is to:
Write a poem in rhyming couplets (two lines that rhyme) that gives instructions for making something.
Requirements:
- Use rhyming couplets throughout
- Give clear steps or instructions
- Be creative with what the“recipe” is for
Think of it as turning instructions into something memorable and playful through rhyme.
I’ve been thinking a lot about Ikigai this week. I have a version of that graphic posted in my office.
Too often, I feel that we, as a society, shove people into a job that meets only one or two of those criteria. Find something that meets all four and you’ll find fulfillment and happiness.
Hot Dogs and Marmalade 
Ikigai is a new concept (sort of) to me. I’ve seen a similar thing but it was crouched in Christianity as Why were you made and what is your purpose?
Before I had heard of Ikigai, when I was in the throes of parenting, I used to tell my children that they were uniquely gifted by God for something special. I do believe that we all have a unique set of gifts and talents. Ikigai provides a formula for figuring out what those things might be
Finding the point where passion and talent intersect is often difficult! Any and all tools in discernment was welcome!
This is an inspiring recipe, Sally.
Great poem! Ikigai is a new word for me!
I had heard of Ikigai but never really understood it until now. Wonderful recipe poem.
Great poem with an interesting concept… 💞
I’d never heard of Ikigai —thank you for introducing it in your inspiring recipe.
Sally, what a lovely recipe for a happy life! Thanks for participating.
Sally, I’d say you turned a big idea into steps we can actually follow, and “where those things meet is ikigai” makes it feel like finding a secret treasure map within ourselves.
~David
I love this idea- I am going to have to give it a try!
Love your poem, Sally!
Yvette M Calleiro 🙂
http://yvettemcalleiro.blogspot.com
hi, Sally❣️
Just wanna let you know that this week’s W3, hosted by our beloved Yvette, is now live:
Much love,
David