Basic meaning and concept
IKIGAI is a Japanese philosophy originating from Okinawa - a small island in the South of Japan. IKIGAI (生き甲斐) means "a reason for being" (une raison d’être).
The word is derived from “iki” ( 生き) meaning “life” and “gai” (甲斐) meaning “the realization of hopes and expectations”.
The concept of IKIGAI is built around 4 words and key questions, as illustrated in the diagram:
IKIGAI is the art of finding meaning and purpose. It is about finding joy, fulfilment and balance in the daily routine of life.
Each one of us can use our individual “IKIGAI” to contribute to the Company’s success by expressing our personal passion through our work. Understanding the impact of our IKIGAI on ourselves, our teams, the company, will help us harness our energy to achieve personal and organisational goals.
IKIGAI for the Individual, you, a valuable member of our team
Each individual's IKIGAI is personal to them and specific to their lives, values and beliefs. IKIGAI is a means to greater self-understanding to learn to accept yourself as you are, focusing on your talents and passions.
IKIGAI requires us to think, reflect, experiment and then take action to uncover our values, strengths and skills. Setting goals and proper planning will provide the framework to help realise your dreams.
IKIGAI helps you find balance in your life so that you have the energy and drive to go to work and give of your best. When your work reflects your purpose, your passion and everything you are good at, it gives you strength to continue, no matter the circumstances.
IKIGAI:
- Is more than just “following your passion” – it is challenging in that it leads to mastery and growth; it involves commitment in time and belief – to a specific objective, skill or trade or people;
- Is a choice – there is autonomy and freedom in pursuing IKIGAI
- improves your well-being because it is associated with positive relationships and health as it provides more energy rather than removing energy (energizing and empowering)
- doesn’t happen quickly – it develops and changes over time.
What is your IKIGAI?
IKIGAI for Sakata
What is Sakata’s reason for being?
What is Sakata’s purpose?
Mr Sakata stated, “we want to contribute to the betterment of life and culture of the people around the world, with value created through our innovative flower and vegetable varieties and through our services”.
Sakata’s IKIGAI therefore lies at the heart of the four overlapping circles i.e. what we love and care about, what we do well, what the world needs and what we can be paid for.
What is our Mission within NAFTA?
To achieve PASSION 2025 objectives as reflected in the 6 principles of our strategy.
Within the NAFTA region, we need to meet stockholder expectations in terms of profitability, return on investment as well as the development and introduction of high quality vegetable and flower seeds to the world.
What are we passionate about?
What are we good at?
Developing, producing and selling high quality vegetable and flower seeds.
This is achieved through the contribution of every employee as well as through partnerships with successful growers, distributors and others in the entire supply chain.
Conclusion
Incorporating the elements of IKIGAI into an employee's work life position is thought to yield high levels of employee engagement and productivity whilst fostering job satisfaction and loyalty to the organization.
LET’S START THIS JOURNEY TOGETHER DURING THE IKIGAI 2022 MEETING.