In 2018, Morimoto was fired from his job for not showing initiative and “not doing anything of value.” Fast forward a few years, and he has turned this lack of action into a lucrative and fulfilling career. At 41, Morimoto is now popularly known as the rental “do nothing” guy in Japan, offering his company to those who need someone to be with them in non-romantic settings. Last year, he earned around $80,000 (Rs 69 lakh) by renting himself out to clients.
A Range of Requests
Morimoto’s services are varied, catering to people who need a companion for all sorts of reasons. His clients might hire him for simple things like being video-called while they clean and redecorate their room or waiting for a marathon runner at the finish line. In one unusual case, he was hired to attend a concert on behalf of a client who couldn’t make it. These requests offer Morimoto a chance to provide comfort without the pressure of being actively engaged, often in situations where people might otherwise feel awkward.
An Innovative Payment Model
Initially, Morimoto charged a fixed fee of 10,000 to 30,000 yen (Rs 5,400 – Rs 16,200) for a two- to three-hour session. However, by the end of 2024, he switched to a pay-as-you-wish model, where clients decide how much they want to pay for his time. While Morimoto is unsure if this approach will be sustainable, he finds joy in seeing if it will work long-term, saying his goal is simply to “live life and enjoy it,” rather than make a living.
Comfort in His Presence
Morimoto has found that many of his clients hire him because they feel more at ease when he’s around. Whether it’s to help them navigate uncomfortable social situations or just to have a calming presence, he provides comfort without judgment. One of his most memorable experiences involved a woman who hired him to sit quietly in a café while she served divorce papers to her husband. Morimoto’s calming presence helped the process go smoothly, and the woman felt more confident during the emotionally charged moment.
A Joyful, Fulfilled Life
For Morimoto, each request and interaction brings joy. From receiving offers to meeting clients and listening to their stories, he feels fulfilled in his unique job. It’s the perfect way for him to live his life, offering simple companionship without the pressure to be anything more than himself. Through his work, he has found not only financial success but also personal satisfaction in providing a meaningful service to those who need it most.
