On one Japanese island, known as Okinawa, there is a village of long-lived people who lead a purpose-filled life, with a secret known as Ikigai. According to Japanese culture, everyone possesses an Ikigai, which can be found by asking four simple questions: what do I love? What am I good at? What can I be paid for? And, what does the world need?
Finding that one thing that combines all four questions should result in living a fulfilled life. In my journey, I stumbled upon a career pathway in pharmacy, and it led me precisely to my Ikigai.
Read more: Dedication and perseverance: My journey from GP pharmacist to partner
Upon completing my A-levels, my career options were very limited because my typical South Asian parents only deemed five specific career options acceptable for me to study. These included dentistry, medicine, optometry, pharmacy, or accountancy.
After careful consideration and deliberation, I chose to pursue a career in pharmacy – not because I was interested in the subject or the career prospects (some say they chose to become a pharmacist due to the flexible working hours and good pay) – but because it was the only degree I could pursue abroad and I was keen to explore the UK. That was honestly the only reason!
From there, it was a challenging but rewarding journey, and after four years of hard work, I successfully graduated. Surprisingly, once qualified, not only was I was fortunate enough to command competitive locum rates, but I also found a certain fulfilment in the work that I did.
Read more: How to secure a job in general practice pharmacy
However, over time, I found myself increasingly disillusioned with my work. Despite the inherent satisfaction that came with helping people and making a tangible difference to their lives, I began to feel a sense of disconnection from my role and a lack of fulfilment in my day-to-day tasks.
Recognising that a change was necessary, I started to explore new career paths that would enable me to have a more profound impact on others. Little did I know that the shift that ultimately changed my life for the better was just around the corner, in the form of a pharmacist role in general practice.
Although I was initially uncertain of what lay ahead, I quickly found myself invigorated by the opportunities and challenges this new field presented. From working with patients to optimise their medications, to collaborating with other healthcare providers to develop and implement effective care plans, I was able to not only make a meaningful difference in my patients’ lives but also push myself to grow and develop professionally.
Read more: How can pharmacists spot sleeping tablet addiction and respond to it?
Looking back, I am grateful for the twists and turns that have led me to this point. Every Monday, I wake up excited to fulfil my duties and I am content with what I do. My confidence has been catapulted, and I feel like the sky is the limit.
Being a pharmacist has been a fulfilling and meaningful career for me. Over the years, I have come to realise that it is not just a job, but rather, my own personal passion. For me, being a pharmacist satisfies all the elements of Ikigai and it gives me a sense of purpose and happiness in what I do.
Firstly, I truly love what I do. I find it both intellectually challenging and emotionally fulfilling; knowing that I am making a positive impact on people's lives through the medications and advice I provide is an incredibly rewarding experience. Every day, I am able to help my patients navigate complex health issues and provide them with the treatments and resources they need to stay healthy. I also love to empower my team of pharmacists to excel, I help them grow and become their best.
Read more: Pharmacists are not 'cheap' substitutes for GPs – we are so much more
Secondly, I am good at what I do. My training and education have equipped me with the knowledge and skills needed to be an effective pharmacist. I take pride in my ability to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in medication management and healthcare practices, and I am always striving to improve through ongoing education and training. I support my team of pharmacists and make decisions based on what is best for them and not just the organisation, and I share my learnings at every opportunity.
Thirdly, the world is in need of pharmacists. The role of pharmacy has expanded significantly, and we are now seen as an integral part of the healthcare team. We do more than just dispense medications; we also provide counselling and education to patients, and collaborate with GPs and other healthcare professionals to provide the best possible care.
Finally, I am paid well for what I do. The financial rewards of being a pharmacist are certainly a factor, as it has always allowed me to support myself and my family. However, it is not the only driving force behind my career. While it is important to be financially stable, the satisfaction and sense of purpose I feel from my work cannot be measured in pounds or pence alone.
Being a pharmacist has given me a fulfilling career that aligns with my personal Ikigai. I wake up every day excited to fulfil my duties, and for the value I add to people's lives and the sense of purpose that comes with it. I never experience Sunday blues.
I am proud to be a pharmacist and to have found my calling in life. Have you found your Ikigai?
Shilpa Patel is the lead prescribing pharmacist and a GP partner at WellBN in East Sussex
