True joy doesn’t come only from milestones, but from the small, everyday victories that give life meaning—this is the essence of Ikigai.

By Ana Taganile

One of my favorite books is Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life, which reminds us that purpose doesn’t always come from grand achievements but from the small, meaningful things we do each day.

In Japan, ikigai means “a reason for being”—the reason you get up in the morning. It’s about finding joy and fulfillment in what makes life worthwhile, whether big or small.

Too often, we postpone happiness until the next promotion, graduation, or milestone. But life is not just built on major achievements. It is lived in the daily, ordinary wins: finishing a task, cooking a meal for family, sending a kind message, or simply choosing joy in the middle of a tiring day.

How to Apply Ikigai in Everyday Life

• Celebrate micro-moments. At the end of the day, write down one small win—maybe you finished a workout or encouraged a friend.
• Find joy in routine. Ordinary acts like cooking or tidying up can be meaningful when done with purpose.
• Stack your small wins. Over time, these little victories add up to big changes in your goals and your sense of fulfillment.

“Small wins are proof that purpose is present and joy is here—right now.”

The lesson of Ikigai is clear: a meaningful life doesn’t depend only on monumental achievements. It grows out of small joys and quiet victories. These daily wins are proof that life is moving forward, that purpose is present, and that joy is here—right now.

“Ikigai reminds us that happiness is not postponed until success; it is lived daily.”

Happiness isn’t something we wait for at the finish line. It is lived daily, in the small steps we take, and in the small wins we celebrate.