Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life

I recently finished reading Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles, and it was a refreshing and thoughtful experience. The book presents a blend of self-help advice, cultural exploration, and insights into the Japanese way of life, specifically focusing on the concept of ikigai, which loosely translates to “reason for being.” While not entirely groundbreaking in terms of self-improvement literature, it offers a beautifully simple framework for thinking about happiness and longevity.

The core idea of the book is that everyone has an ikigai—a purpose or motivation that gets them out of bed in the morning. It’s a combination of what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. According to García and Miralles, understanding and living in harmony with your ikigai is one of the key secrets to a fulfilling and healthy life. While this might sound like a lofty or abstract concept, the authors manage to break it down into relatable, bite-sized lessons, often leaning on real-life examples from the long-living residents of Okinawa, a Japanese island with a particularly high number of centenarians.

One thing I appreciated about the book is how it blends philosophy and practicality. The early chapters dive into the origins of ikigai and the broader philosophies that underpin Japanese culture, like finding beauty in simplicity and focusing on the present moment. These enriching parts gave a deeper sense of how ikigai connects to a larger worldview. But the book doesn’t get lost in lofty ideals; it’s grounded by interviews with people who live by these principles every day. It brings theory down to earth by showing us how ordinary Okinawans incorporate ikigai into their daily routines.

The emphasis on small, manageable lifestyle habits is another strength of Ikigai. Instead of advocating for drastic life changes or “hacks” to achieve instant happiness, the book encourages incremental shifts—like eating moderately, staying physically active, staying connected to others, and pursuing activities that spark joy. These habits aren’t revolutionary, but they’re reassuring in their simplicity. They suggest that true happiness comes from living mindfully and aligning your life with your values, rather than chasing external achievements or material success.

However, I did find that the book occasionally felt repetitive, especially as it cycles through various wellness tips. The advice on diet, movement, and mindfulness was sound but felt like familiar territory, especially if you’ve read similar books on health and well-being. That said, the fact that the advice is rooted in Japanese culture and backed by the real-world experiences of centenarians made it more intriguing. The authors’ descriptions of the Okinawan lifestyle—eating plenty of vegetables, practising communal activities, and maintaining close social ties—make these points come alive in a way that transcends standard self-help fare.

The simplicity of the book is both a strength and a limitation. On the one hand, the clean, conversational writing style makes the book accessible to anyone. It’s a light and quick read, which is great for anyone looking for an introduction to the concept of ikigai or Japanese wisdom. On the other hand, those seeking deep, intellectual dives or scientific rigour may feel underwhelmed. While García and Miralles do reference some research and anecdotal evidence, the book doesn’t dwell on data or empirical studies. It’s more about inspiring you to reflect on your life and nudging you toward small adjustments.

One of the most valuable takeaways for me was the emphasis on community and relationships. The Okinawans’ sense of connection with their neighbours and their social bonds are described as central to their longevity and happiness. In a world that often prioritises individualism and success, this focus on community feels like an important reminder. It’s a simple but profound message—ikigai isn’t just about personal fulfilment; it’s also about being in harmony with others.

To conclude, Ikigai is an insightful and uplifting read. It may not radically change your life or offer revolutionary ideas, but its strength lies in the simplicity and timelessness of its advice. García and Miralles encourage us to slow down, reflect on what matters, and make small, sustainable changes that can enhance our well-being. For anyone interested in Japanese culture or looking for a gentle nudge toward a more meaningful life, this book is well worth the time.