Is Ikigai Worth the Read? My Honest Thoughts

If you’re into wellness, longevity, and living a purposeful life, you’ve probably heard of Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life. I finally picked it up, and here’s my take on the book.

First off, the concept of ikigai is super interesting. It’s all about finding that sweet spot between what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can get paid for. It’s a really unique way to frame purpose, and the book dives into how this idea is ingrained in Okinawan culture—aka home to some of the longest-living people in the world.

The book covers everything from longevity and mindfulness to diet and movement—basically, all the things I’m already obsessed with. Some of my favorite takeaways? Stay active, eat mostly plant-based, surround yourself with good people, and have a reason to wake up excited every morning. It really aligns with my belief that inner wellness shines outward.

That being said, I found the book a bit repetitive. It’s definitely an easy, feel-good read, but if you’re already into wellness and personal growth, you might not find anything groundbreaking here. It’s a great introduction if you’re new to these topics, but if you already have a solid wellness routine, you might not take away much that you didn’t already know.

Final thoughts? Ikigai is a light, inspiring read that reminds you to slow down, be intentional, and build a fulfilling life. It’s not super in-depth, but it’s definitely motivating!

Would I recommend it? Yep—especially if you love all things wellness and personal growth. But if you’re looking for something more detailed, you might want to pair it with other books on longevity and mindfulness.