Balancing the Ikigai: Aberystwyth University undergraduate students’ perceptions of careers in a modern world

In a world where career dynamics are ever changing, with a rapid shift from traditional to non-traditional careers, the needs and values of employees, and the very idea of what a career can be, are evolving too. The prominent factors in career choice, motivation and satisfaction, are represented in the theory of Ikigai, a concept focused on finding values and meaning in life in order to live happier. This qualitative study uses inductive thematic analysis to investigate the priorities of UK undergraduate students regarding their future careers. Seven semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis were conducted to explore contemporary students’ perspectives of careers. Recurring themes indicate that participants seek a career path that prioritises meaningful work over high financial reward, hierarchising meeting personal needs, passions, and missions before meeting the needs of society and employers. These balanced preferences reflect the model of Ikigai, illustrating how career concepts are changing over time. Contemporary perspectives offer insight into the workforce’s search for meaning in balanced professional careers.