How finding your ikigai can give you a new perspective on stress.
The holidays are here, it’s the busiest time of year, and you’re likely already thinking about all those to-do list items queuing up in 2023.
If you’re feeling a little stressed right about now – we get it.
You’re not the only one. 38% of people surveyed in a 2006 study said that they felt more stressed during the holiday season. On top of that, only 8% actually felt happier during this time of year.
But amid all the hustle and bustle, how do you get a break?
If you’re starting to feel overwhelmed by wish lists and resolutions, the best way to break the stress cycle is to take a step back and re-centre yourself.
By stepping away from the frenzy of the holidays and checking in with yourself, you can help take some of the pressure off by reframing this busy period as a passing moment. You might be experiencing holiday stress now, but remembering your bigger purpose and meaning in life can help that stress seem like a blip on your radar, rather than an all-consuming sensation.
One easy exercise to start turning down stress is finding your ikigai – or your ‘reason to jump out of bed in the morning.’
By keeping your ikigai top of mind, you’ll not only feel more fulfilled and joyful, but you’ll also live a more meaningful life.
In Ikigai, a book named after the Japanses concept, authors Héctor García and Francesc Miralles delve into ikigai, guiding readers on a journey to find one of their own.
And it’s easier than you might think!
To find your ikigai, ask yourself if there is something in your life that covers each point:
- You love it.
- You are good at it.
- The world needs it.
- You can be paid for it.
It might take a bit of brainstorming to find something that covers all four requirements, but once you do, you’ll have your ikigai figured out.
With your ikigai in mind, it’ll be easier to understand your motivation and purpose – allowing those things to guide you rather than negative emotions that arise from stress.
While it might seem like a subtle shift of perspective, finding your ikigai can be the first step on the journey to happiness – just when we need it most!
For more insight on finding your ikigai (and what to do once you’ve found it) check out the book.
Love Atomic Habits but don’t know what to read next? Never fear, we’ve got the perfect guide for you.
If you're looking for some fresh inspiration and insight as you ring in the new year, look no further! These books could be just what you're after.
Play the new Penguin Bingo with us. How long will it take you to get bingo?
A reimagining of the tempestuous romance of Wuthering Heights set in the cut-throat world of professional ice skating… what do readers really think about The Favourites?
Got 'read more books' on your resolution list? We've some hacks to help with that.
Looking for some summer audiobook inspiration? Here are our top picks of great reads to listen to on your summer adventures!
Want some insider intel on the best books to gift this Christmas? Read on for what the Penguin Random House New Zealand team are ACTUALLY gifting!
Never read Murakami and wondering where to begin? Take this fun quiz to figure out which book you should read first.
Check out some of the best YA books coming in 2025.
Always wanted to try a Jilly Cooper book but weren’t sure where to start? Here's why you'll fall in love with her books and a recommended reading order to get you started, from super fan Alex Collingwood
If you’re completely new to Jeff Kinney’s world-famous Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, can we just start by saying that we’re completely and utterly jealous of you? Get ready for one serious reading binge and warn your sides, because they’re about to split.
