Articles

Finding Fulfillment with Ikigai and 3 Rings

Published

9 months ago

December 18, 2024

Introduction

In recent years, the concept of ikigai has become increasingly popular, particularly in the Western world. Rooted in Japanese philosophy, ikigai is often described as a reason for being, a purpose that gives life meaning. However, there is a modern twist to this ancient idea: the ikigai with 3 rings framework. This adaptation of the original concept offers a practical approach to achieving balance and fulfillment in both personal and professional life.

In this article, we’ll delve into the idea of ikigai with 3 rings, explain its components, and show you how to apply it for a more meaningful and balanced life. We’ll also provide comparisons and tips to help you explore the value of this approach.

What is Ikigai?

Ikigai is a Japanese term that can be roughly translated as “a reason for being” or “a reason to wake up in the morning.” The philosophy behind ikigai emphasizes finding joy, satisfaction, and fulfillment in everyday life. In the traditional model, ikigai is the intersection of four elements:

What you love: Your passions or things that bring you joy.
What you are good at: Your skills and talents.
What the world needs: Ways you can contribute to society or help others.
What you can be paid for: The practical element of earning a living.

The convergence of these four factors is where ikigai is found—a state of balance that leads to a rewarding life. However, while the traditional ikigai model is highly useful, a more simplified approach known as ikigai with 3 rings has emerged in the modern context.

What is Ikigai with 3 Rings?

The ikigai with 3 rings framework is an evolved concept that maintains the same principles as traditional ikigai but simplifies them into three interconnected areas, or “rings.” This makes the concept more adaptable to a variety of people, whether you’re a student, a professional, or someone seeking more meaning in life.

The three rings in the ikigai with 3 rings model are:

Passion: What you love and what you’re good at.
Purpose: What the world needs and what you can contribute.
Prosperity: What you can be paid for and what allows you to live sustainably.

Unlike the traditional model that blends all four elements, the 3 rings framework focuses on the primary intersections between passion, purpose, and prosperity. This approach emphasizes practicality and ensures that the pursuit of ikigai remains grounded in reality, especially in today’s fast-paced and often financially-driven world.

Why is Ikigai with 3 Rings Important?

In the modern age, many individuals struggle with achieving a sense of purpose. With the increasing pressures of social media, economic instability, and fast-moving industries, it’s easy to lose sight of personal fulfillment. The ikigai with 3 rings model serves as a guide to reconnect with one’s inner self while balancing professional and personal growth.

The three rings of ikigai offer a holistic framework that touches on both internal fulfillment (Passion and Purpose) and external success (Prosperity). By applying these principles, individuals can find more clarity in their goals and actions, which enhances motivation and life satisfaction.

Breaking Down the 3 Rings of Ikigai

Passion: What You Love and What You’re Good At

This first ring focuses on personal fulfillment. What excites you? What activities make you lose track of time? Passion comes from doing things that you love and are naturally good at. For example, a photographer might feel deeply passionate about capturing moments, but they must also be skilled in their craft to create high-quality work.

What You Love: Things that bring you joy, such as hobbies, interests, and activities that energize you.
What You’re Good At: Your strengths, whether innate or learned skills. This could range from analytical skills to creativity, problem-solving, or technical abilities.

Purpose: What the World Needs and What You Can Contribute

This second ring looks outward, focusing on how your passions and skills intersect with the needs of the world. In this context, purpose represents a higher calling or mission that makes your work meaningful. It’s not just about what you want to do—it’s about how what you do impacts others.

What the World Needs: Consider societal problems or challenges that align with your values and interests. These could be anything from environmental sustainability to social justice or healthcare.
What You Can Contribute: This involves offering your time, skills, or resources to address these challenges. It’s the part of ikigai that gives you a sense of responsibility toward the greater good.

For example, a social worker may have a passion for helping children (what they love), the skills of counseling (what they’re good at), and a strong desire to help improve children’s lives (what the world needs).

Prosperity: What You Can Be Paid For and What Allows You to Live Sustainably

The third ring focuses on the practical aspects of life—sustaining yourself financially. This element ensures that your pursuits can lead to professional success, enabling you to support your lifestyle. Prosperity comes when you find a way to monetize your passion and purpose.

What You Can Be Paid For: This is the intersection of your skills and market demand. It involves offering a service, creating a product, or providing expertise that others are willing to pay for.
What Allows You to Live Sustainably: This takes into account the financial and logistical aspects of your work. A key part of prosperity is creating a sustainable income stream that aligns with your lifestyle needs.

By integrating all three rings—passion, purpose, and prosperity—you can achieve a balanced life where you’re not only doing what you love, but also making a living while contributing to society.

Practical Ways to Apply Ikigai with 3 Rings in Your Life

Now that we have broken down the rings of ikigai, let’s explore some practical tips for applying this framework in everyday life:

Self-Reflection: Start by asking yourself: What do I love doing? What am I good at? What does the world need? And how can I earn from this? Regular self-reflection helps clarify where your passions and purpose intersect.
Experiment and Adjust: Sometimes, the path to fulfillment isn’t linear. Experiment with different activities or career paths that combine your passions and skills. As you grow, your understanding of your ikigai may evolve.
Find Your Tribe: Surround yourself with people who share your values. Whether through professional networks or personal connections, find communities that encourage you to pursue your passions and contribute to the world.
Create a Financial Plan: Once you’ve identified your ikigai, it’s time to think about sustainability. How can you turn your passion into a career? What skills are in demand, and how can you position yourself in the market?

Comparison of Traditional Ikigai vs. Ikigai with 3 Rings

Aspect	*Traditional Ikigai* Model**	Ikigai with 3 Rings Model
Framework	Four intersecting circles	Three interconnected rings
Focus	Balance of passion, purpose, skills, and market demand	Focuses on passion, purpose, and prosperity
Application	Ideal for broad philosophical reflection	Practical, real-world approach for balancing life and career
Complexity	Slightly more complex with four components to consider	Simplified, easier to implement in modern contexts
Relevance	Suitable for philosophical introspection	Tailored for today’s fast-paced, financially-conscious world

Conclusion

Ikigai with 3 rings provides a simplified yet powerful way to navigate the complexities of modern life. By understanding the balance between passion, purpose, and prosperity, you can create a fulfilling and sustainable life. Whether you’re pursuing a new career, starting a business, or seeking personal growth, this framework offers a roadmap to help you achieve clarity and meaning.

The beauty of this model lies in its adaptability. While traditional ikigai offers deep philosophical insight, the 3 rings approach offers practical steps for real-world application. Remember, finding your ikigai is a journey, not a destination. By staying focused on what you love, what the world needs, and how you can prosper, you can unlock a more balanced and purposeful life.

Articles

Is the US Phone Book Legal? What You Need to Know

Published

1 month ago

August 1, 2025

Hazel William

With so much focus on digital directories and privacy these days, it’s natural to wonder if the US phone book is still legal. Phone books used to be in every home, but now their role and impact on privacy and consumer rights are being questioned.

Here, we’ll look at whether US phone books are legal, how they get your information, and what steps you can take if you want your details removed.

How the US Phone Book Works

Phone books, also known as White Pages or Yellow Pages, are directories that list residential and business phone numbers. Traditionally published by phone companies, they now also exist in digital formats.

Who Publishes Phone Books?

Traditional Providers: AT&T, Verizon, and other telecom companies historically distributed printed directories.
Third-Party Publishers: Companies like DexYP (formerly Yellow Pages) and Super media now handle many directory services.
Online Directories: Websites like Whitepages.com, AnyWho, and TruePeopleSearch aggregate publicly available phone data.

Once you know who publishes these directories, the next question is how they collect your information.

Phone books rely on publicly available data, including:

Landline listings (unless you opt out)
Public records (voter registrations, property records)
Data brokers that buy and sell consumer information

Is the US Phone Book Legal?

Yes, phone books are legal, but there are some important details to keep in mind. Their legality comes from a few key sources:

1. The Telecommunications Act of 1996

Requires phone companies to provide directory listings unless customers opt out explicitly.
Applies mainly to landline numbers (cell numbers are protected under different laws).

2. Freedom of Information Laws

Public records (like voter registrations) can be used in directories unless restricted by state laws.

3. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) & Privacy Laws

While phone books can list your number, they cannot include sensitive data (like Social Security numbers) without consent.
Cell phones are protected under the CPNI (Customer Proprietary Network Information) rules, meaning wireless carriers can’t publish your number without permission.

Can You Remove Your Number from the Phone Book?

Yes, you can remove your number if you prefer. Here’s how to opt out:

For Landline Numbers:

Contact Your Phone Provider – Request an “unlisted” or “non-published” number (may involve a small fee).
National Do Not Call Registry – While it won’t remove you from directories, it blocks telemarketers.

For Online Directories:

Many sites allow opt-outs, but the process varies:

Whitepages.com – Visit their opt-out page.
TruePeopleSearch – Use their removal tool.
Spokeo – Submit a request via their help center.

For Data Brokers:

Sites like Acxiom and Intelius sell consumer data. You’ll need to request removal individually.

Privacy Concerns & Legal Loopholes

While phone books are legal, privacy advocates highlight concerns:

1. Robocalls & Scams

Publicly listed numbers are more vulnerable to spam calls.
The FCC reports over 4 billion robocalls per month in the US.

2. Stalking & Harassment Risks

Easy access to personal data can be exploited by malicious actors.

3. Outdated Opt-Out Systems

Many people don’t know they can remove their info, leaving them exposed.

Real-Life Example: A Privacy Wake-Up Call

In 2018, a woman in California discovered her unlisted landline number was published in a digital directory. After receiving harassing calls, she learned her telecom provider had failed to process her opt-out request properly.

Lesson: Always verify that your removal request was processed.

The Future of Phone Books

With the decline of landlines, traditional phone books are fading. However, digital directories are growing, raising new privacy debates.

Emerging Regulations:

California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) – Gives residents more control over personal data.
Potential Federal Privacy Laws – Congress has debated nationwide data protection laws.

Key Takeaways: What You Should Do

✅ Landline users: Opt out through your phone provider.
✅ Cell phone users: Your number is protected but check online directories.
✅ Monitor your data: Use tools like DeleteMe or PrivacyDuck to scrub your info.
✅ Stay informed: Laws change—keep up with privacy regulations.

Final Verdict: Legal, But You Have Control

The US phone book is legal, but you’re not powerless. By understanding how directories work and taking steps to opt out, you can protect your privacy in an increasingly data-driven world.

Action Step: Search your name online today and remove your info from unwanted listings. Your privacy is worth the effort!

Articles

Banana Bark: The Overlooked Supermaterial with Surprising Uses

Published

2 months ago

July 16, 2025

Hazel William

Have you ever wondered what happens to banana trees after harvest? Most of us enjoy the fruit, but the bark—often discarded—holds untapped potential. From sustainable textiles to organic fertilizers, banana bark is a versatile, eco-friendly resource gaining attention worldwide.

In this article, we’ll explore:
✔ What banana bark is and why it matters
✔ Its traditional and modern applications
✔ Step-by-step ways to use it at home
✔ Expert insights on sustainability and innovation

Let’s peel back the layers (pun intended) and discover why banana bark deserves a second look.

What Is Banana Bark?

Banana bark comes from the pseudostem of the banana plant (Musa spp.), a fibrous, tree-like structure that supports the plant’s growth. Unlike hardwood trees, banana plants are herbaceous, meaning their stems are soft and composed of tightly packed leaf sheaths.

After harvesting bananas, farmers typically cut down the stem, which regrows from the root system. Instead of letting the bark go to waste, many cultures have found ingenious ways to repurpose it.

Traditional Uses of Banana Bark

For centuries, communities in tropical regions have utilized banana bark in practical and creative ways:

1. Natural Textiles & Handicrafts

In the Philippines, artisans weave banana bark into sinamay, a durable fabric used for hats, bags, and home décor.
In Nepal and India, the bark is dried and handcrafted into eco-friendly plates, bowls, and ropes.

2. Organic Mulch & Fertilizer

Banana bark decomposes quickly, enriching soil with potassium and nitrogen—key nutrients for plant growth.
Farmers in Costa Rica and Uganda use shredded bark as mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

3. Biodegradable Packaging

Companies in Thailand and Sri Lanka press banana bark into sustainable food containers as an alternative to plastic.

Modern Innovations: Banana Bark in Today’s World

With sustainability at the forefront, researchers and entrepreneurs are finding new ways to harness bananabark:

1. Sustainable Fashion

Brands like Banana Fiber Clothing (Philippines) and Green Banana Paper (Micronesia) transform banana fibers into luxurious, biodegradable textiles rivaling linen and hemp.

2. Paper Production

Unlike wood pulp, bananabark requires less chemical processing, making it an eco-friendly paper source. Companies in India and Ecuador now produce banana bark notebooks, cards, and packaging.

3. Biofuel & Bioplastics

A 2022 study in BioResources found that banana bark’s high cellulose content makes it ideal for biofuel production.
Startups in Colombia are experimenting with bananabark-based biodegradable plastics for disposable cutlery.

How to Use Banana Bark at Home

Want to try DIY bananabark projects? Here’s how:

1. Homemade Banana Bark Paper

Materials:

Fresh bananabark strips
Blender
Screen mold (or old window screen)
Water
Wooden press (or heavy books)

Steps:

Soak bark strips in water for 24 hours to soften.
Blend into a pulp and spread evenly on the screen.
Press out excess water and let dry in the sun.
Peel off your handmade sheet—perfect for art or notes!

2. Garden Mulch

Chop dried bark into small pieces.
Spread around plants to retain moisture and deter pests.

3. Natural Cordage

Peel long fibers from the bark, twist tightly, and dry for a strong, biodegradable rope.

Why BananaBark Is a Sustainability Game-Changer

✔ Fast-Growing & Renewable

Banana plants regrow in 9–12 months, unlike slow-growing trees.

✔ Reduces Agricultural Waste

Over 1 billion tons of banana stems are discarded yearly—upcycling them cuts landfill waste.

✔ Carbon-Neutral Material

Processing bananabark emits far less CO₂ than synthetic materials.

Dr. Maria Fernandez, a bio-materials researcher, notes:

“Banana bark is one of the most underutilized resources in agro-industry. Its strength, flexibility, and biodegradability make it ideal for circular economies.”

Challenges & Future Potential

Despite its benefits, bananabark faces hurdles:

Lack of large-scale processing facilities in many regions.
Consumer awareness—most people don’t know it’s usable.

However, with rising demand for sustainable materials, bananabark could soon be mainstream.

Final Thoughts: The Future Is Peel-able

Next time you enjoy a banana, remember: its bark might one day be your notebook, shirt, or even your takeout box. By supporting bananabark products and DIY recycling, we can turn agricultural waste into eco-gold.

Your Move:
➔ Look for bananabark products online (Etsy, eco-stores).
➔ Try a small DIY project—mulch or handmade paper.
➔ Share this article to spread the word!

Articles

Truly Unruly: How to Tame Chaos and Take Control of Your Life

Published

2 months ago

July 12, 2025

Hazel William

Have you ever felt like your life is spiraling out of control? Like no matter how hard you try, chaos keeps creeping in—missed deadlines, cluttered spaces, unfinished projects? You’re not alone. In a world that glorifies “busy,” many of us struggle with truly unruly habits that sabotage productivity, peace, and progress.

But what if you could flip the script? What if, instead of drowning in disorder, you could harness it—or better yet, eliminate it? This guide dives into expert-backed strategies to help you declutter your mind, streamline your routines, and reclaim control.

Why We Struggle with Unruliness

Before fixing a problem, we must understand it. Unruliness—whether in habits, schedules, or environments—often stems from:

Decision fatigue – Too many choices lead to paralysis.
Lack of systems – Without structure, chaos thrives.
Perfectionism – The fear of failing prevents starting.
Digital overload – Constant notifications fracture focus.

A 2023 study by the American Psychological Association found that 72% of adults feel overwhelmed by disorganization, leading to stress and burnout. The good news? Small, intentional changes can make a massive difference.

1. Declutter Your Environment (The Outer Game)

The 5-Minute Rule

If a task takes less than five minutes, do it immediately. Hang up your coat, reply to that email, or wipe the counter. This prevents small tasks from snowballing into chaos.

The One-In, One-Out Rule

For every new item you bring into your space (clothes, gadgets, even apps), remove one. This keeps clutter from accumulating.

Real-World Example: Marie Kondo’s KonMari method isn’t just about tidying—it’s about keeping only what sparks joy, reducing decision fatigue.

2. Master Time Management (The Productivity Hack)

Time Blocking > To-Do Lists

Instead of vague to-dos, assign tasks to specific time slots. Google CEO Sundar Pichai and Elon Musk swear by this method to maximize efficiency.

The Two-Minute Rule (David Allen’s GTD)

If a task takes under two minutes, do it now. Quick actions prevent backlog.

Batch Similar Tasks

Group emails, calls, or errands together. Context-switching drains energy—batching preserves focus.

3. Tame Digital Chaos (The Silent Productivity Killer)

Turn Off Non-Essential Notifications

Researchers at UC Irvine found that it takes 23 minutes to refocus after a single interruption.

Use the “Do Not Disturb” Mode

Schedule focus blocks where only priority contacts can reach you.

Unsubscribe Ruthlessly

If an email newsletter doesn’t add value, ditch it. Tools like Unroll.Me can help.

4. Build Anti-Unruly Habits (The Long-Term Fix)

Start with Keystone Habits

Charles Duhigg, author of The Power of Habit, explains that keystone habits (like daily exercise or journaling) create ripple effects, improving other areas of life.

The 2-Day Rule

Never skip a habit twice in a row. Miss a workout? Do it the next day. This prevents total derailment.

Automate Decisions

Steve Jobs wore the same outfit daily to conserve mental energy. Simplify recurring choices (meal prep, morning routines) to reduce decision fatigue.

5. Embrace Imperfection (The Mindset Shift)

Done > Perfect

Jia Jiang, author of Rejection Proof, argues that perfectionism is procrastination in disguise. Ship the project, publish the post—refine later.

The 80/20 Rule

Focus on the 20% of efforts that yield 80% of results. Not everything needs 100% perfection.

Final Thoughts: From Unruly to Unstoppable

Truly unruly habits don’t disappear overnight—but with consistent tweaks, you can transform chaos into clarity. Start small: declutter one drawer, block 30 minutes for deep work, or silence your phone during meals.

As author James Clear puts it: “You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.” Build systems that work, and unruly becomes unstoppable.