In today’s #ToolkitTuesday, we explore Ikigai—a powerful tool to help performers build sustainable, fulfilling careers. This Japanese concept, meaning “reason for being,” offers a framework for finding the intersection between passion, skill, purpose, and financial stability.
The Ikigai Framework: Use the Diagram as Your Guide
Take a look at the Ikigai diagram above. It highlights the four key elements performers need to align:
- What you love
- What you are good at
- What the world needs
- What you can be paid for
Where these elements overlap, you’ll find areas that guide your career decisions:
- Passion: The overlap of What you love and What you are good at
- Mission: The overlap of What you love and What the world needs
- Vocation: The overlap of What the world needs and What you can be paid for
- Profession: The overlap of What you are good at and What you can be paid for
At the centre of the diagram—where all four elements intersect—is your Ikigai. This sweet spot represents a career that is meaningful, fulfilling, and sustainable.
How Performers Can Apply the Ikigai Framework
Use these steps to dive into your Ikigai and explore how it can guide your career choices:
- Self-Reflection Using the Diagram
Draw your own version of this Venn diagram and fill in each section with your thoughts. What performances, skills, or jobs fit into multiple areas? For example, a role in a theme park show might align with your love for performing, your skill in live theatre, the need to entertain families, and provide income. - Experiment with Aligned Opportunities
- Passion + Profession: If you love music and are good at singing, consider performing in cover bands or recording for music libraries.
- Mission + Vocation: If you want to make a positive impact, try teaching performance skills or developing children’s shows that entertain and educate.
- Revisit and Refine
Your Ikigai is not fixed—it will evolve as you grow in your career. Regularly revisit the diagram to check how your passions and skills align with emerging opportunities.
Journaling Prompts to Explore Your Ikigai
- What performances bring me the most joy?
- What compliments or feedback do I often receive about my skills?
- How does my craft serve or impact others?
- What roles or side gigs provide a steady income while allowing me to stay in my creative flow?
Overcome Common Challenges Using Ikigai
- Struggling with the Financial Side?
If you love performing but find it challenging to earn consistent income, explore aligned side jobs, such as teaching, content creation, or performing in theme parks. - Too Many Passions?
If you have multiple interests, use the diagram to identify where the most overlap exists. Focus your efforts on those areas to avoid burnout and fragmentation.
Let Ikigai Be Your Career Compass
The Ikigai framework helps you navigate the complexities of a performing career by keeping you aligned with what truly matters. It’s not just about doing what you love—it’s about balancing passion, purpose, and financial sustainability.
Start your Ikigai journey today:
- Map out your own Ikigai diagram.
- Use it to explore new opportunities.
- Revisit it regularly to ensure you remain aligned with your evolving career goals.
Let your Ikigai be the tool that guides your career choices and helps you build sustainable, meaningful success. Success is personal—create yours.
