For many older people in Japan work isn’t just a way to keep busy but also a source of happiness and wellbeing. From a 71-year-old barber to a 100-year-old café owner, Monocle visits Japan’s elderly who are showing little sign of letting up.
Recipe for quality life in the golden years:
- Love what you do
- Have a sense of purpose
The happiest elderly folks have one thing in common – ikigai. Ikigai – the reason for waking up in the morning. To an old lady with a ready smile, it means tending to a bookstore and greeting customers as they come in. A simple act, but it brings joy to her and keeps her going.
We don’t have to wait till we’re old to think of our ikigai. What’s your reason for waking up in the morning?