This blog hop prompt is different from the usual ones we receive. Instead of a single theme, we were given a list of prompt words to choose from. I’ve selected “success,” “passion,” “escape,” “ikigai,” “create,” “vision,” “memory,” “lost,” “chaotic,” “haunted,” “serene,” and “whispers.” It’s great fun to choose and write on them. Thank you, A Team and Blogchatter, for these innovative prompts.
In the ever-evolving tapestry of life, we often find ourselves caught between the extremes of chaos and serenity, lost in the whirlwind of responsibilities, passions, and the quest for success. As I sit by my window, watching the rain whisper secrets to the earth, I reflect on the concept of ikigai—the Japanese term that translates to “a reason for being” or “the thing that gets you up in the morning.” This journey of discovering ikigai has been a blend of the chaotic and the serene, much like the weather outside.
The Chaos of Pursuing Success
Success is often accompanied by chaos. In my earlier years, I equated success with financial stability and professional achievements. Driven by a relentless passion to climb the corporate ladder, each step was a testament to my hard work and dedication. The office was my battlefield, where every day felt like a race against time. Deadlines loomed like dark clouds, and the pressure was palpable. Yet, amidst the chaos, there was a certain thrill, an adrenaline rush that kept me going.
The Serene Escape
Unchecked chaos can lead to burnout, making it essential to find an escape. Writing became my sanctuary, a serene haven where I could lose myself in words and ideas. Creating stories, penning down my thoughts, and giving life to my imagination was my way of finding balance. The quiet hours spent at my desk, with only the soft hum of the fan and the gentle patter of rain, were moments of pure bliss. It was in these serene escapes that I began discovering my ikigai.
Passion and Vision
Passion is a double-edged sword. It fuels our drive but can also blind us to other aspects of life. My passion for writing led me to start a blog, a platform where I could share my stories, experiences, and insights. With a clear vision in mind, I aimed to inspire others, to touch lives with my words. This vision gave me purpose, a direction amidst the chaos. It was my beacon, guiding me through the stormy seas of doubt and uncertainty.
The Whispers of Memory
Memories have a way of haunting us, whispering tales of past failures and lost opportunities. There were times when I felt lost, overwhelmed by the weight of my past mistakes. But these whispers also served as reminders of my resilience, of the battles I had fought and won. They were a testament to my journey, a collection of lessons learned the hard way. Each memory, whether painful or pleasant, was a stepping stone towards discovering ikigai.
The Serene Whispers of Ikigai
As I navigated through the chaotic demands of life and the serene moments of introspection, I slowly uncovered my ikigai. It wasn’t a sudden revelation but a gradual understanding that my true purpose lay in the delicate balance of passion, vision, and creation. My ikigai was not just about writing but about connecting with others, sharing my journey, and helping them find their own paths.
Embracing the Lost and Found
In the quest for ikigai, we often feel lost. But being lost is not the end; it’s a part of the journey. It’s in losing ourselves that we discover new facets of our being, new passions, and new purposes. The chaos, the serenity, the passion, the vision—all intertwine to create a life that is rich, meaningful, and fulfilling.
The Chaotic Serene Dance
Life is a dance between chaos and serenity, passion and calm, lost and found. Discovering ikigai is about embracing this dance, finding harmony in the discord, and purpose in the madness. It’s about waking up each morning with a sense of purpose, ready to face the day’s challenges and savor its moments of peace.
As I close my laptop and step out into the rain, I am reminded that the journey to discovering ikigai is ongoing. It’s a path filled with twists and turns, whispers of memories, and bursts of passion. And in this journey, amidst the chaos and serenity, I find my reason for being.
Neerja Bhatnagar
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I have written 3 solo books and 3 anthologies. You can buy my books on Amazon. If you are on Kindle Unlimited, you can read them for free. Pls, do check and share your reviews.
Good choices of words led to a good story of struggles, success and finding your Ikigai.
Thanks, dear Geethica.