The way ikigai has been explained to me by friends who are bi-cultural is that it is a lot like the European concept of "Destiny". It is something that you can reach if you believe in it, and that will make all the hardships and pain of life worth the sense of acomplishment and "correct-ness" in your choices. Or you can avoid pursuing your destiny and reach the end of your life wishing you had.
It's not supposed to be some kind of dramatic, Hollywood type drama. It's supposed to be the result of a thousand small decisions made every day. Like deciding to be a teacher, working for low pay in government buildings but becoming a role model for hundreds and hundreds of children.
Mike
