Good morning {{ First Name | boss }}!
The initial post on Purpose generated a lot of rich discussion, so I wanted to follow up on this topic to build on the thinking a bit more.
Many of us spend our careers searching for that elusive “right thing” to do with our lives. We leap between roles, chase promotions, or pivot industries, hoping that the next move will bring clarity. Yet, the deeper fulfillment we crave often remains just out of reach.
There must be something wrong with us, right? Maybe not.
As it turns out 83% of US workers suffer from work-related stress and 54% say it impacts their home life, so you would be in the minority if you didn’t feel some of this.
It’s also important to realize we evolve and the world changes, so what felt right a few years ago might be something that no longer serves us looking ahead.
So what to do about it?
Enter ikigai, a Japanese concept that translates to "reason for being." It’s a powerful framework I personally love, that invites us to ask four key questions:
What do I love?
What does the world need?
What am I good at? (or can learn)
What can I get paid for?
When we find the sweet spot where these four circles overlap, it is said that we discover our ikigai—a deeper purpose that drives fulfillment and joy.
To be candid, I’m still seeking my Ikigai, so let’s take this newsletter as an example.
What I LOVE
I genuinely love writing these posts; crafting ideas to share feels energizing, not draining. I didn’t realize I enjoyed writing as I haven’t done it in years.What The World NEEDS
Experts, stats and each of you tell me there’s serious room for improvement around men’s health, performance and well-beingWhat You Are GOOD AT (or can learn)
I’m learning, so bear with me, but the feedback so far has been positive and I think I can become good at this if I stay consistent and work hard.What You Can Be PAID FOR
Let’s be real—whether it will make money remains a mystery. Even so, the process feels inherently rewarding, and that keeps me coming back. This is currently in the Mission / Passion space, but let’s see how it evolves.
Finding your ikigai isn’t about instant perfection—it’s about aligning your passions, skills, impact, and sustainability over time.
Reflection Question For You: What activities or projects make you feel alive and fulfilled, even if they don’t check all four boxes yet? Think outside your job as well for additional clues.
Action Challenge:
Pick one of the four ikigai questions and journal your honest answers. Then, identify a small step to lean further into one area. Your ikigai might be closer than you think.
Whether you're exploring new opportunities or reflecting on what's missing in your current role, hopefully these four questions can help clarify your path and guide your next steps with a little more clarity.
Have a great week everyone! You got this! 💪
Eric
Eric Tribe
Founder, Infinite Momentum
Live fully. Grow daily. Build your momentum.
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