Ikigai (生き甲斐, lit. ’a reason for being’) is a Japanese concept referring to something that gives a person a sense of purpose, a reason for living.

It can be used by creative entrepreneurs to design your unique business formula to achieve both creative and commercial success.

Everyone wants to be successful. And when I ask creative entrepreneurs to define the success they want to achieve, their answers aren’t just about making money. Of course making money is important, but it’s not the only thing. They tell me that their own definition of success also includes making an impact, being respected for their skills, working with suitable collaborators, etc. Some people want to work alone; others need to be part of a team. Some want to employ people; others don’t. There’s no “correct” answer for what success should mean. It’s personal, and everyone’s definition will contain a different mixture of ingredients.

But it’s important that each person knows how they define Success, so that they can ensure they achieve it.

The Ikigai concept means combining what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can get paid for.

A successful creative enterprise is a harmonious combination of Passion, Mission, Vocation and Profession.

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