More than a phrase that guides my life, it is a Japanese philosophy called Ikigai. In this philosophy, we must first be happy with ourselves so that we can then contribute to the happiness of others. It is a journey that moves from within us toward the outside world.

First, personal happiness is achieved by perfecting what we do until we do it well and become experts. If we love doing those activities, we call them passions. And if those activities also provide us with economic income, we call it professions.

Once we reach that balance and personal well‑being through our passions and professions, we must seek ways for them to also help others. If our passions can help others, we call it missions. If our professions can help people, we call it vocations.

The purpose of Ikigai is that in life we must seek that balance through our profession, passion, vocation, and mission.