You’ve probably seen the famous IKIGAI diagram: four neat circles asking the Big Questions—
What do you love?
What are you good at?
What can you be paid for?
What does the world need?
It’s a nice idea. But here’s the thing: for most of us, trying to “find our passion” or “change the world” can feel completely overwhelming. Like, do I really need to “love” my work every single day? And does the world actually need another consultant, coach, or copywriter?
So, let’s throw out the pressure to be perfect and reframe IKIGAI into something… doable. I mean, wouldn’t it be nice to feel like you’re already good enough—and not waiting around for some magical purpose to show up? What if you can use IKIGAI inside-out, from what you plan to do to how you do it?
Here’s my take:
1. What do you love about what you plan to do?
Let’s stop obsessing over finding “what you love” and start asking: What can you love about what you’re already planning to do?
Love doesn’t have to be this big, sweeping, soulmate-level thing. It can be tiny—like enjoying how your work challenges you, the people you help, or even the coffee breaks between tasks.
Try this:
Think about the work you’re doing (or planning to do). Write down three things you could love about it. Is it the creativity? The connection with others? The problem-solving? Focus on that—it’s enough.
2. What are you good ENOUGH at, given the people you want to serve?
Spoiler alert: you don’t need to be the best. (Phew.) You just need to be good enough for the people you want to help.
Your audience isn’t looking for perfect. They’re looking for someone who understands them, who’s relatable, and who can solve their problem. And guess what? That’s you.
Try this:
Think about the people you’d love to work with. Write down one skill, talent, or experience you already have that they’d find valuable. (Seriously, just one. Keep it simple!)
3. Who would pay for your service?
Listen, there’s always someone who’ll pay for what you offer. The trick is finding your people—and that starts with putting yourself out there.
You don’t have to appeal to everyone. Focus on the folks who’ll appreciate your style, your approach, and your vibe. They’re out there, trust me.
Try this:
Make a list of three types of people or businesses who might need what you do. Then, brainstorm one way you could connect with them—like sending a message, joining a group, or creating a piece of content.
4. Why is it important? How will the larger audience, or the world around you, benefit from your service?
No, you don’t have to “save the world.” But your work can still make an impact—even if it’s just for a small audience or a niche community.
Maybe you help someone feel more confident. Maybe you make their life a little easier or more fun. That’s enough. (And hey, small ripples can lead to big waves.)
Try this:
Write down one way your work will make someone’s life better. It can be big or small. Then remind yourself: this is your contribution—and it matters.
Why This Matters
IKIGAI doesn’t have to feel like a high-stakes treasure hunt. You don’t need to “find your purpose” in some grand, life-changing way. It’s about showing up, doing work you can enjoy, and helping people who need you.
• You’re already good enough for the right audience.
• There’s always someone who’ll value—and pay for—what you offer.
• You don’t have to love everything about your work—just find enough to love in it.
So, stop waiting. Start where you are, use what you’ve got, and build from there.
Now, go write your list, reach out to that audience, or just take a step forward. You’ve got this.