I've shared this concept relatively recently, but in honor of my mom's 85th birthday, I thought I'd share it again with some edits.
Over the past century, life expectancies have soared while birth rates have declined. This unusual combination of population dynamics creates significant demographic and socioeconomic challenges for societies worldwide.
To put things in perspective, adult diapers now outsell baby diapers in Japan. Think about how that likely reshaped Japan's workforce and consumer markets.
Getting old is tough, and it gets tougher the older you get. As a result, finding your 'reasons for being' and joy in life becomes even more important ... it may also be the secret to living longer and healthier.
Many people (all over the world) struggle to get up in the morning.
There's a Japanese concept called Ikigai that may help.
Ikigai centers around finding purpose as you grow older. Paradoxically, it makes sense to start the process as early as possible.
Finding your "reason to be" and living with purpose is a key to making the most of your time.
The graphic highlights something interesting (yet almost counter-intuitive) … When two regions intersect, it creates something positive (e.g., a passion or a mission). However, where three regions intersect, it creates a pain point (for example, it could be what you're good at, you love doing it, the world needs it … but it doesn't make you any money – so now you're struggling).
It's worth examining and thinking about for a bit.
For a different perspective, check out Dave Kang's post Ikigai Ruined My Life. In it, Dave expresses his belief that there is freedom and value in understanding and expressing your purposes in flexible and separate ways.
On a related note, here is a TEDx talk about the nine diet and lifestyle habits that help people live past 100 ... whether or not they take you past 100, they're probably a good place to start.
TED-ED via YouTube
And here is a link to Dan Sullivan's e-book, My Plan for Living to 156. That may sound outrageous, but it's worth reading because Dan shares surprisingly valuable insights in this book. It doesn't matter whether you actually live to be 156; what matters is living as if it were true. Someone who believes they're approaching the end often looks for excuses or an off-ramp rather than seeking purpose, meaning, and a Bigger Future. By shifting your perspective, you can create a more purposeful and fulfilling life, regardless of your actual lifespan.
I'm now 61. While I'm healthier than I was 10 years ago, that doesn't mean I'm not feeling my age or the consequences of decisions I made when I was younger. Aging isn't for the weak, but what a blessing it is to the strong. I genuinely believe the next 60 years can be bigger and more exciting than my last 60. That makes every day a gift and every struggle an opportunity.
Live long and prosper!
