An Unconventional Service

In 2018, Japanese writer Shoji Morimoto embarked on an unusual journey by offering himself for rental to do anything at his clients’ requests, as long as it involved just his presence. What started with his 300 Twitter followers has now blossomed into a following of over 400,000. His intriguing narrative is captured in his book, Rental Person Who Does Nothing, where he recounts the fascinating episodes of his ‘do nothing’ service.

The Genesis of the ‘Do Nothing’ Service

After quitting a corporate job he despised and finding freelance writing dull and stressful, Morimoto sought solace in a new form of employment. He began offering his unique service to fulfill his wish to ‘live without doing anything.’ Unlike conventional jobs, Morimoto’s service revolves around passive companionship. He does not charge his followers except for travel reimbursements, depending rather on his wife’s salary and savings to get by.

Stories from the ‘Do Nothing’ Rental

Morimoto’s book provides a detailed account of his more than 4,000 engagements. For instance, he accompanied a woman to file her divorce papers, joined a man for 13 loops around Tokyo by rail, and talked with someone who was once involved in the infamous Aum Shinrikyo cult. These encounters, narrated with wry humor, shed light on broader social and cultural issues such as friendship, human connection, and the role of money in our lives.

Reflections and Social Impact

Through his experiences, Morimoto subtly addresses significant points. He highlights how his service meets various emotional needs in today’s isolating world. With the U.S. Surgeon General identifying an epidemic of loneliness, one wonders if Morimoto’s ‘do nothing’ service might offer value in other societies.