Ikigai, Values, and Trade-offs: Key Elements for Career Decisions

” Putting your Ikigai, topmost values, and the pros and cons of each option into the trade-off equation can help you find the right answer for your career decision. “

Atip Muangsuwan
CEO Coach and Coach Supervisor

In the intricate dance of career and personal growth, there are moments that demand introspection and decision-making of the highest order. This is the story of “Mark,” a dedicated executive who found himself at a crossroads only six months into his tenure at a public company.

The Dilemma

Mark’s dilemma was one that many professionals face: Should he continue working with his current company, or should he seek opportunities elsewhere? The weight of this decision was heavy, and he knew he needed clarity.

The Coaching Session

During our coaching session, Mark shared his concerns and the uncertainty he felt about his future with the company. To help him navigate this critical decision, I introduced him to the Ikigai framework, a powerful tool for finding one’s purpose and aligning it with their career.

Introducing Ikigai

Ikigai, a Japanese concept, represents the intersection of what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. I shared the Ikigai framework with Mark, encouraging him to reflect on his current job and assess whether it aligned with his Ikigai.

Reflection with Ikigai Framework:

“Mark, think about your current role. Does it align with your passions and skills? Does it fulfill a need in the world? Are you fairly compensated for it? These are the questions that will help you determine if your job is truly your Ikigai.”

Exploring Values

Next, I asked Mark to identify his topmost values. These values represent his core beliefs and priorities. After some reflection, Mark shared his values with me, and we discussed whether his current job aligned with these values.

Value Alignment Discussion:

“Mark, consider your topmost values. Does your current role support and honor these values? Are you able to live by your principles and feel fulfilled in your work environment?”

Understanding Trade-offs

I then introduced the principle of trade-offs, explaining that life often requires us to exchange one thing for another. Whether it’s personal freedom for marital commitment, romantic life for parenthood, or time and energy for financial wealth, trade-offs are inevitable.

Trade-off Scenario:

“Mark, think about the trade-offs you’re willing to make. Are you ready to trade off some personal freedom for the stability and growth opportunities at your current company? Or do you prioritize a different aspect of your life that might require a change in your career?”

The Decision-Making Process

We combined the Ikigai framework, Mark’s values, and the trade-offs principle to create a holistic decision-making process. By considering these elements, Mark could see the pros and cons of each option and make an informed decision.

Decision-Making Reflection:

“Let’s put your Ikigai, topmost values, and the pros and cons of each option into the trade-off equation. This will help you find the right answer for your career decision.”

The Outcome

After thorough reflection and discussion, Mark found clarity. He decided to stay with his current company, recognizing that it aligned with his Ikigai, values, and the trade-offs he was willing to make.

Client Response:

“My investment in your personalized coaching has been invaluable. I now feel confident in my decision and ready to move forward with a clear sense of purpose.”

A Call to Action

Mark’s journey is a testament to the power of introspection and personalized coaching. If you find yourself at a similar crossroads, take a moment to reflect on your Ikigai, values, and the trade-offs you’re willing to make.

Question for Reflection:

“What are you going to trade off today for your personal and professional growth in the future?”

This case study highlights the importance of aligning one’s career with their Ikigai, values, and understanding the inevitable trade-offs. By leveraging these elements, you can make informed decisions that lead to fulfillment and growth.

If you have any leadership or career dilemmas that need urgent and immediate support like Mark, let’s talk soon! Because urgent and important issues cannot wait to be solved. Together, we can navigate these challenges and emerge stronger.

About Atip Muangsuwan: Atip Muangsuwan is the Founder & CEO of The Best Coach International Co., Ltd. He is a CEO & UHNWI Coach, Certified Mentor & Supervisor for global executive coaches, Holistic Life Transformation Expert, Business & Life Strategist, and Corporate Facilitator/Trainer. With a proven track record of helping clients achieve their career goals and job promotions, Atip is dedicated to supporting individuals in their personal and professional growth.