Finding Purpose: Dharma, Ikigai, and Self-Awareness
In our quest to lead fulfilling lives, we often stumble upon philosophies that help us understand ourselves better. Among these, the Indian concept of Dharma, the Japanese philosophy of Ikigai, and the psychological framework of the Johari Window stand out as powerful tools for introspection, purpose, and growth.
While each framework is unique, they share a common goal: helping individuals live with meaning and authenticity. Let’s explore how these three concepts intersect, differ, and complement each other—and how they can guide you to a more enriched life.
Dharma: The Indian Blueprint for Purposeful Living
Dharma, rooted in Indian philosophy, refers to one’s moral duty, role, or purpose within the larger cosmic order. Unlike rigid rules, Dharma is dynamic and evolves with life stages (Ashrama Dharma) and societal roles (Varna Dharma). It balances personal desires with responsibilities to others, emphasizing harmony with oneself and the universe.
For instance, the Bhagavad Gita portrays Arjuna’s internal struggle with his Dharma as a warrior, showcasing how understanding one’s duties can resolve internal conflicts and lead to clarity of purpose.
Ikigai: Finding Joy and Fulfillment
Ikigai focuses on discovering the sweet spot where what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for overlap. It’s about finding a reason to wake up every morning with enthusiasm.
Unlike Dharma, ikigai has a narrower focus on individual fulfillment rather than collective or moral obligations. However, both emphasize living with purpose and aligning actions with inner values.
Johari Window: Enhancing Self-Awareness
The Johari Window is a tool designed to enhance self-awareness and improve relationships. By categorizing aspects of ourselves into four quadrants—Open Area, Blind Spot, Hidden Area, and Unknown Area—it encourages introspection, feedback, and communication to expand the Open Area.
Unlike Dharma and Ikigai, which focus on purpose and existential fulfillment, the Johari Window is more interpersonal, emphasizing the dynamics of self-awareness and relationships.
Comparison: Dharma, Ikigai, and Johari Window
Here’s how these three frameworks stack up:
Aspect
Dharma
Ikigai
Johari Window
Origin
Indian philosophy
Japanese philosophy
Western psychology
Focus
Duty, morality, and harmony
Passion, skills, and societal contribution
Self-awareness and interpersonal growth
Purpose
Balancing personal desires with moral duties
Finding personal fulfillment
Understanding self through relationships
Process
Introspection, ethical action, spiritual growth
Identifying overlaps in love, skills, and need
Feedback, self-reflection, and communication
Scope
Cosmic and collective
Individual fulfillment
Relational and self-awareness
Outcome
Spiritual growth, social harmony, and fulfillment
Meaningful work and joyful living
Enhanced relationships and trust
Adaptability
Evolves with life stages
Evolves with personal growth
Evolves with feedback and self-discovery
Bringing It Together in Daily Life
Dharma in Action
Imagine a doctor whose Dharma includes not only healing patients but also serving underserved communities. Their purpose goes beyond personal passion to align with societal well-being and ethical principles.
Ikigai in Action
A graphic designer who loves art, excels at visual storytelling, creates designs that solve real-world problems, and earns a living through their skills is living their ikigai.
Johari Window in Action
The same graphic designer might discover through client feedback (Blind Spot) that their communication skills need improvement. By addressing this, they enhance their self-awareness and professional relationships.
When combined, these frameworks create a holistic guide to personal and interpersonal growth:
Dharma provides moral grounding.
Ikigai inspires passion and purpose.
Johari Window fosters self-awareness and relational harmony.
Suggested Reading
For a deeper dive into these concepts, here are some thought-provoking books and authors: (clickable links).
On Dharma
Bhagavad Gita (Commentary by Eknath Easwaran or Swami Sivananda)
The Difficulty of Being Good by Gurcharan Das
Being Mortal by Atul Gawande (modern take on duty and purpose)
On Ikigai
Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles
Awakening Your Ikigai by Ken Mogi
On Self-Awareness and the Johari Window
Insight: Why We’re Not as Self-Aware as We Think by Tasha Eurich
Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman
Closing Thoughts
While Dharma emphasizes harmony with the universe and society, Ikigai focuses on individual fulfillment, and the Johari Window sharpens self-awareness and relationships. Together, they offer a comprehensive toolkit for leading a meaningful, connected, and authentic life.
Begin your journey by reflecting on your Dharma, exploring your ikigai, and expanding your Johari Window. These timeless concepts, when applied thoughtfully, can illuminate your path to a fulfilling and balanced life.
What’s your take on these philosophies? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below—we’d love to hear your journey!
