Ikigai is a valuable tool for English language learning and career mapping for people who are new to the UK.

Self-awareness

Ikigai encourages people to reflect on their passions, talents and what they can offer the world. For English language learners this self awareness can help people identify their strengths and interest providing clarity on potential career paths.

Integration of language skills:

Pursuing your Ikigai often involves learning new skills and knowledge. For people learning English this serves as a practical context for language acquisition. Whether its attending classes, reading relevant materials or engaging in conversations related to their passions and career goals people can integrate language learning activities that are personally meaningful.

Networking opportunities:

Identifying your Ikigai leads to participation in communities and networks related to your interests and career aspirations. These connections provide valuable opportunities for people new to the UK to practice their English in real-world settings, expand their professional network and access job opportunities through referral and mentorship.

Tailored career guidance:

Ikigai allows you to align your passions and talents with what the world needs and what they can be paid for. For refugees navigating a new job market, this framework can provide a structured approach to career exploration and decision making. By identifying areas where skills and interests intersect with the job market people can focus on pursuing he employment opportunities that are economically viable and personally fulfilling.

Motivation:

Ikigai brings with it that purpose and motivation which is particularly important for people rebuilding their lives in a new country. By focusing on meaningful goals and aspirations people can overcome challenges more effectively and give purpose and focus to their language learning and job searching journey.

1. Identify your Ikigai components

Begin by assessing your interests, values, and goals to determine how they align with the four components of Ikigai. Consider the following questions:

• Passion: What aspects of language learning do you find most enjoyable?
• Mission: How does learning a new language contribute to your personal growth and the world around you?
• Vocation: What unique skills or talents can you bring to language learning?
• Profession: How does learning a new language support your career goals or future aspirations?

2. Create a personalised learning plan

Using your Ikigai assessment as a foundation, develop a customized language learning plan that incorporates the following elements:

• Passion: Include fun and engaging activities that align with your interests, such as watching movies in the target language or joining a conversation club.
• Mission: Set specific goals and milestones that connect your language learning to personal growth, such as reading books on self-improvement or volunteering to teach others.
• Vocation: Leverage your unique skills by incorporating them into your learning process, like creating art or music in the target language or writing short stories.
• Profession: Focus on developing language skills relevant to your career or future aspirations, such as attending industry-specific workshops or practicing job interviews in the target language.

3. Use Ikigai-inspired resources

Incorporate Ikigai principles into your language learning journey by using resources that encourage self-reflection and personal growth:

• Ikigai book: Read “Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life” by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles to gain a deeper understanding of the concept.
• Ikigai worksheets: Download Ikigai worksheets to help you identify your personal Ikigai components and apply them to language learning.
• Language learning apps: Use apps like Duolingo, Babbel, or Memrise to practice the target language and track your progress.

Conclusion

Integrating Ikigai principles into your language learning journey can create a more fulfilling and purposeful experience. By aligning your language learning with your passions, mission, vocation, and profession, you can build a strong foundation for success and personal growth. Embrace the concept of Ikigai and unlock the true potential of language learning.