Shoji Morimoto, a 41-year-old Japanese man, has made headlines for building a unique and lucrative career out of doing nothing. Ironically, his journey began after being fired from his previous job in 2018 for lacking initiative.
Morimoto's business model is centered around offering his presence to clients who need someone to accompany them in various situations. His services can range from:
- Waiting at the finishing line to support a marathon runner
- Attending concerts or sporting events as a companion
- Providing a listening ear for those who need someone to talk to
- Even just existing in the same space as his clients
Morimoto's business model is quite unique, operating on a pay-as-you-wish basis. Despite the uncertainty of this approach, he managed to earn approximately Rs 69 lakh (around $80,000 USD) in 2024. His story highlights the growing demand for companionship services in Japan, where people are willing to pay for social interaction to combat loneliness and social awkwardness. His clients pay him for his time, with some even willing to pay for him to do nothing but sit with them.
Morimoto's story highlights the changing values and needs of modern society, particularly in Japan. His business has not only provided him with a steady income but also helped him find purpose and fulfillment.
