Ikigai. “Iki” = “Life” – “gai” = “Effect”. A reason for existence.
Though it has a broader connotation, we are trying to decipher its essence towards work. An easy interpretation would be – doing what you love and loving what you do. A perfect formula for harmony in work-life to bring in the same harmony in your family life to attain moksha.
To achieve such a state, we must strive for success, accept risks and opportunities along the way, and continuously adapt ourselves to changes to not become a dodo.
While there are tons of things do around each of us, we would like to highlight a few that most individuals can pick up and make their own. This list is specially tailored for COVID days but can be easily referenced by folks who have additional responsibilities at home.
Let’s go!
-
Online Education
Physical schooling is completely disrupted currently. Most schools have already started taking online classes and the same is true for most online tutors. The nice part is – if you have any skill to share, there are lots of takers to keep the little ones busy. So, if you are good at any school subjects or arts and crafts, start online and reach a lot of kids.
-
Content Creator
Everyone is glued to a streaming device – phone, laptop, TV, etc. So, if you have creative talents and can utilize the tons of free tools present out there to showcase your talent, you can cash it. Make an online tutorial, a skit, an animation, a rhyme, or anything that you are good at and publish it. With some work and a little luck, you may be in for big money.
-
Coder
This is an evergreen suggestion. Learn to code. There are tons of options to choose from based on your comfort level with software programming. You have options to work full-time, part-time, or freelance. This might be the best one for folks with any form of formal education.
-
Drop shipping
Community markets are mostly closed, and few opens places are too crowded to meet any social distancing norms. 
An easier way is to get things delivered to your doorstep. While a lot of online food delivery services are making hay, there are some items (think seasonal fresh fruits, fresh spices, etc.) that can be sourced from local vendors. These vendors might not be ready to deliver individual quantities but would be more than happy to deliver bulk orders if someone takes up the responsibility of consolidating them for their housing society. You get the stuff and can make a few bucks for securing bulk discounts.
-
Affiliate Marketing
Do you know a lot of people? Have a big FaceBook, WhatsApp, Telegram, or any other large group where you are trusted? If yes, then propose your product suggestions using affiliate product links from major e-commerce retailers and earn a share of every purchase anyone makes using those links. This share is different for different product groups and can range from 2% to over 20% on some. Make sure you don’t suggest things that lower your credibility score.
What do you think? If you have other interesting ideas that you wish to share, please add them to the comments section.
