Decisions by Design | Edition 05

Ikigai: A Simple Tool For Times of Transition.

Thresholds inform all that we do at The Beacon Collective. They serve as a powerful anchor for decision-making and manifestation. Some are relatively small, while others involve major shifts like navigating a career change or stepping into a new role.

In times of transition, the way forward can feel uncertain.

That’s why we turn to a powerful tool called Ikigai to help shed light on the path ahead.

What is Ikigai?

Ikigai is a Japanese concept that translates to “a reason for being.” It sits at the intersection of four guiding questions:

• What do you love?
• What are you good at?
• What does the world need?
• What can you be paid for?
  

Where these circles overlap, you discover alignment, a compass for making decisions that feel grounded and whole.

Why It Feels Harder Today.

Clarity can feel rather elusive in times like these. With the unprecedented pace of change, it is not always obvious to pin down what the world needs or what the market will reward. 

Roles evolve, industries shift, and priorities change rapidly. That uncertainty can push us to make decisions from urgency rather than alignment, overemphasizing financial security or familiar skills while leaving passion and purpose aside.

Ikigai reminds us to step back, pause, and hold all four circles in view.

Applying Ikigai to Decision-making.

Ikigai is not about chasing a perfect answer. It is about making balanced and more conscious choices that bring together meaning and practicality.

Applying Ikigai takes courage because it often means saying "no" to what feels safe but misaligned, and "yes" to opportunities that require growth, authenticity, and trust.

When used at thresholds, Ikigai becomes a framework for moving through uncertainty with intention. It helps transform transitions into opportunities to realign with what matters most.

Until next time, 

With clarity and care, 

Courtney