In a world driven by ambition, productivity, and relentless pursuit of success, the story of Shoji Morimoto stands out as an extraordinary exception. At the age of 41, this Japanese man has crafted a unique career based on doing, quite literally, nothing.
By offering his presence as a rental companion for strangers, Mr. Morimoto has garnered significant attention in Japan and beyond. His unusual profession not only challenges conventional notions of work but also sheds light on the underlying social dynamics of modern Japanese society.
A Career Born from Doing Nothing
Shoji Morimoto’s journey into his unconventional career began in 2018, after losing his job for “lacking initiative.” Rather than conform to traditional employment norms, he embraced his perceived inadequacy as a virtue.
Identifying a niche market in Japan’s thriving rental services industry, Mr. Morimoto decided to offer his presence as a service. His role was simple: to be there for people without imposing expectations for conversation, advice, or activity.
Mr. Morimoto’s services cater to a wide array of needs, from mundane tasks to emotionally significant moments. Some of his assignments include standing at a marathon finish line to cheer on a runner, participating in video calls while clients clean their homes, or accompanying someone to an event where they don’t want to appear alone. His role has no romantic or physical undertones, and he has drawn a clear boundary against any requests involving sexual activities.
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The uniqueness of his profession lies in its simplicity. For clients who struggle with loneliness, awkward social interactions, or a need for silent companionship, Mr. Morimoto provides a judgment-free space.
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His ability to adapt to the diverse needs of his clients while maintaining a non-intrusive presence has made his services remarkably popular, earning him around $80,000 annually.
The Appeal of a “Do-Nothing” Companion
What makes Shoji Morimoto’s services so appealing in a bustling country like Japan? One major factor is the nation’s deeply ingrained cultural norms. Japan’s society is known for its emphasis on harmony, politeness, and avoiding confrontation. While these values promote societal cohesion, they can also hinder the development of close personal relationships.
Many Japanese individuals find it challenging to ask for help or companionship from friends and family due to fear of imposing or appearing vulnerable. This societal barrier creates a demand for rental services like Mr. Morimoto’s, where clients can pay for a non-judgmental companion.
His assignments highlight the growing need for companionship in a fast-paced, digitally connected yet emotionally distant world. One memorable request involved a 17-hour journey on Tokyo’s Yamanote train line, where he rode alongside a client making 13 laps around the city. On other occasions, he has stood on stage in front of strangers, accompanied clients to events, or simply listened to them vent about their bad days.
While Mr. Morimoto doesn’t offer advice or solutions, his presence alone provides comfort and validation to those who seek it. His clients appreciate his ability to fulfill their needs without prying, engaging in small talk, or attempting to fix their problems—a quality that has made him a trusted figure in their lives.
The Broader Context: Japan’s Rental Services Industry
Shoji Morimoto’s story is part of a larger trend in Japan’s thriving rental services industry. This unique sector offers solutions for a wide range of social needs, from hiring temporary friends and family members to renting partners for special occasions.
These services are not confined to addressing loneliness; they also cater to practical and social challenges, such as attending social events, acting as stand-ins for absent loved ones, or simply providing company during daily routines.
Experts suggest that the demand for rental companions stems from more than just loneliness. Social awkwardness, a hallmark of Japanese culture, plays a significant role.
Hiroshi Ono, a professor of human resources at Hitotsubashi University, notes that many Japanese people are uncomfortable with confrontation and direct communication. This cultural trait often makes forming friendships and asking for companionship particularly challenging.
Renting companionship, therefore, becomes a way to circumvent the discomfort of traditional social interactions. By paying for someone’s time, individuals can enjoy the benefits of human connection without the complexities of building and maintaining relationships.
This transactional approach to social interaction may seem unconventional, but it resonates with those who value the convenience and emotional safety it provides.
For Mr. Morimoto, this growing demand has translated into a steady flow of requests—around 1,000 annually. His flexible pricing model, which allows clients to pay what they feel his services are worth, has also contributed to his popularity.
While he initially charged a flat rate of 10,000 to 30,000 yen ($65 to $195) for a 2-3 hour session, he has since embraced the pay-as-you-wish system, prioritizing the accessibility of his services over rigid pricing.
Redefining the Concept of Work
Shoji Morimoto’s profession challenges traditional notions of labor and productivity. By monetizing his presence, he has redefined what it means to provide value in the workplace.
His story demonstrates that work doesn’t always have to involve tangible outcomes or measurable achievements. Sometimes, simply being there can make a difference in someone’s life.
Despite the physical and emotional demands of his job, Mr. Morimoto views his experiences as enriching. From standing under the scorching sun to attending parties full of strangers, he has encountered situations that test his resilience and adaptability. However, he cherishes these moments as unique opportunities that arise solely because of his chosen path.
His unconventional career also raises important questions about the evolving nature of work in modern society. As technological advancements and societal shifts continue to reshape the labor market, unconventional professions like Mr. Morimoto’s may become more common. His success underscores the importance of recognizing and valuing diverse forms of labor, even those that defy traditional definitions.
Shoji Morimoto’s story is a testament to the power of individuality and the value of unconventional thinking. By embracing his perceived shortcomings and turning them into strengths, he has carved out a unique niche in Japan’s rental services industry. His ability to provide companionship without judgment, expectations, or unsolicited advice has made him a trusted presence for countless clients.
Beyond his personal success, Mr. Morimoto’s profession highlights broader societal issues, including loneliness, social awkwardness, and the changing nature of work.
His journey serves as a reminder that value can be found in the simplest of actions and that even in a world obsessed with productivity, sometimes doing nothing can mean everything.
let’s enjoy few years on earth with peace and happiness….✍🏼🙏