From Unemployment to Unconventional Success: The Story of Shoji Morimoto
In 2018, Shoji Morimoto, a 41-year-old Japanese man, faced a harsh reality. Fired from his job, he was criticized by his supervisor for “lacking initiative” and failing to add value to the company. What seemed like a career-ending blow, though, became the catalyst for an extraordinary journey. Today, Morimoto has turned “doing nothing” into a lucrative career, earning approximately NT$2.63 million annually by simply renting himself out as a companion.
The Birth of an Unusual Career
After losing his job, Morimoto struggled to find work that resonated with him. During this period of unemployment, he stumbled upon an unconventional idea: renting out his idle time to strangers. “As long as strangers were willing to pay,I would try my best to meet their requests,” he explained.This simple concept evolved into a full-fledged business, where Morimoto offers his presence for a fee, often doing nothing more than being there.
The Power of Presence
Morimoto’s services are as varied as the people who hire him. From waiting at the finish line of a marathon to riding 13 consecutive trains on Tokyo’s Yamanote Line, his role is to provide companionship without judgment or expectation. One of his most memorable experiences involved a female client who asked him to meet her at a coffee shop. Later, he discovered she was discussing her divorce and needed someone familiar to lend her courage.
“Most of the time,strangers just want to seek companionship,” Morimoto shared. “Provided that you stay with the other person, you don’t have to do anything, and I can leave when the time is up.”
A Growing Demand for connection
Morimoto’s work highlights a growing need for human connection in an increasingly isolated world. While some clients seek companionship, others simply want a listening ear. “Not only lonely people needed companionship, but some simply wanted to find someone to vent their sorrows to,” he noted. Though he occasionally offers advice, Morimoto is quick to clarify that he is not a professional psychological counselor.
The Financial Side of Doing Nothing
Morimoto’s unique career has also proven to be financially rewarding. He receives about 1,000 orders annually, charging between 10,000 to 30,000 yen (approximately NT$2,077 to NT$6,233) for 2 to 3 hours of his time. Clients are free to decide the amount they wish to pay, and in 2024 alone, Morimoto earned approximately NT$2.63 million.
| Key Details | Details |
|——————————–|———————————————————————————|
| Annual Income (2024) | NT$2.63 million |
| Hourly Rate | 10,000 to 30,000 yen (NT$2,077 to NT$6,233) |
| Number of Orders Annually | ~1,000 |
| Most Memorable Experiance | Supporting a client during her divorce discussion at a coffee shop |
A New Perspective on Work
Shoji Morimoto’s story challenges conventional notions of productivity and success. By embracing his role as a “do-nothing” companion, he has not only found financial stability but also provided a valuable service to those in need of connection. His journey is a testament to the power of reinvention and the unexpected opportunities that can arise from life’s setbacks.
For more on Morimoto’s unique career, visit CNBC.
From Unemployment to Unconventional Success: The Story of Shoji Morimoto
In 2018, Shoji Morimoto, a 41-year-old japanese man, faced a career setback that would redefine his life. After being fired for “lacking initiative,” he turned his unemployment into an prospect by creating a unique business: renting himself out as a companion. Today, Morimoto earns approximately NT$2.63 million annually by simply being present for his clients.To delve deeper into this fascinating story, we sat down with Dr. Akiko Tanaka, a sociologist adn expert on unconventional careers and human connection, to discuss the implications of Morimoto’s journey and its broader societal impact.
The Birth of an Unusual Career: Turning Setbacks into Opportunities
Senior Editor: Dr. Tanaka, Shoji Morimoto’s story is truly remarkable. How do you view his decision to turn unemployment into a business centered around “doing nothing”?
Dr. Akiko Tanaka: It’s a brilliant example of resilience and creativity. Morimoto’s story challenges the traditional notion that productivity is tied to tangible output. By offering his presence as a service,he tapped into a growing need for human connection in a world that often prioritizes efficiency over emotional well-being. His ability to see value in simply being there for others is both innovative and deeply human.
Senior Editor: Do you think his career could have emerged in any other cultural context, or is it uniquely suited to Japan?
Dr. Akiko Tanaka: While Japan’s culture of isolation and high societal expectations may have amplified the demand for his services, the underlying need for connection is universal. Similar trends, like professional cuddling or paid companionship, are emerging globally. What makes Morimoto’s story unique is his emphasis on “doing nothing”—a concept that resonates deeply in a society where overwork and burnout are prevalent.
The Power of Presence: Why People Pay for Companionship
Senior Editor: Morimoto’s clients hire him for a variety of reasons, from marathon support to divorce discussions.What does this say about the role of companionship in modern society?
Dr. Akiko tanaka: It highlights a profound shift in how we perceive relationships and support systems. In an increasingly digital and isolated world, many people feel disconnected despite being surrounded by others. Morimoto’s services provide a non-judgmental, pressure-free space where clients can feel seen and heard. It’s not about solving problems but about offering a sense of presence and validation.
Senior Editor: Do you think this trend reflects a failure of traditional support systems,like family or friends?
Dr.Akiko Tanaka: Not necessarily a failure, but an evolution. Traditional support systems are still vital, but they often come with expectations or emotional baggage. Morimoto’s role is unique because he offers a blank slate—someone who listens without judgment and leaves when the time is up. This neutrality can be incredibly liberating for clients.
A growing Demand for Connection: Societal Implications
Senior Editor: Morimoto’s work underscores a growing demand for human connection. How do you see this trend evolving in the future?
Dr. Akiko Tanaka: I believe we’ll see more businesses and services centered around emotional well-being and connection. The pandemic accelerated this trend, as people realized the importance of human interaction. Morimoto’s success is a sign that people are willing to pay for meaningful, albeit unconventional, forms of companionship.
Senior Editor: Do you think this could lead to a broader redefinition of work and productivity?
Dr. Akiko Tanaka: Absolutely. Morimoto’s story challenges the idea that work must involve tangible outputs or measurable results. By valuing presence and emotional support, we’re beginning to recognize that some of the most important “work” is intangible. This could pave the way for more careers that prioritize human connection over traditional metrics of success.
The Financial Side of Doing nothing: A Lucrative Niche
Senior Editor: Morimoto earns a substantial income from his services. What does this say about the market for unconventional careers?
Dr. Akiko Tanaka: It’s a testament to the viability of niche markets.Morimoto’s success shows that there’s a demand for services that cater to emotional and psychological needs. His ability to monetize “doing nothing” also reflects a broader shift in consumer behavior, where people are willing to pay for experiences and connections that enhance their quality of life.
Senior Editor: Do you think this model is lasting in the long term?
Dr. Akiko Tanaka: As long as the demand for human connection persists, I believe it is. However, Morimoto’s success also depends on his ability to maintain boundaries and avoid burnout. It’s a delicate balance, but one that can be managed with careful planning and self-awareness.
A New Outlook on Work: Lessons from Morimoto’s Journey
Senior Editor: What lessons can we take from Morimoto’s story, both as individuals and as a society?
Dr. Akiko Tanaka: On an individual level,it’s a reminder that setbacks can lead to unexpected opportunities. Morimoto’s journey shows the power of resilience and creativity in the face of adversity. On a societal level, it challenges us to rethink our definitions of work and success. By valuing presence and connection, we can create a more compassionate and inclusive world.
Senior Editor: Thank you,Dr. Tanaka, for your insights. Morimoto’s story is truly inspiring, and your analysis sheds light on its broader implications.
Dr. Akiko Tanaka: thank you. It’s been a pleasure discussing this fascinating topic.
For more on Shoji Morimoto’s unique career,visit CNBC.
