#Japan #Financial Security #Tokyo #Career Development #Human Holdings

A Deep Dive into the Career Reality of 40-Year-Olds in Japan

As Human Holdings Inc. marks its 40th anniversary, it seeks to understand the career perspectives of individuals born in 1985, now reaching the age of 40. A recent survey titled “The Reality of Careers at 40 and Aspirations for the Future: 2025” has unveiled key insights from a sample of 1,000 men and women employed in various organizations.

Key Findings

The survey highlights a notable trend: a large number of respondents express a desire to continue working well beyond the traditional retirement age. About 24.3% preferred to work until they are between 61 and 65, while 23.6% indicated they wish to continue as long as they are physically capable.

However, this positive sentiment is contrasted by a prevalent sense of uncertainty regarding their future career paths. An alarming 65.4% of participants reported that they do not have a clear direction for their careers, reflecting the complexities and challenges of the so-called “40-year-old wall.” This demographic is increasingly expected to navigate a landscape filled with diverse working options while grappling with the pressure of reskilling and adapting to societal shifts.

Economic Concerns: Savings and Financial Security

In terms of financial preparedness, the survey revealed a stark discrepancy between expectations set in one’s 20s and current realities. Most respondents anticipated savings of 10 to 15 million yen by age 40, yet the prevailing reality shows that many only have savings below 1 million yen (specifically, between 10,000 to 100,000 yen). This divergence indicates a broader anxiety regarding financial stability, as 75% expressed concern over their retirement funds.

Aspirations and Influences

Moreover, the survey indicates that 46.8% of the respondents could picture their desired future selves. Notably, the celebrities considered to represent the ideal working ethos included Miki Fujimoto, Haruka Ayase, and Aya Ueto, suggesting that public personas significantly influence personal aspirations.

Interestingly, when asked about whom they aspire to resemble in the future, many selected Sanma Akashiya and Tomoko Yamaguchi, highlighting the enduring cultural impact of these figures.

The Impact of SELFing

Human Holdings promotes a concept called “SELFing,” combining self-management and continuous personal development. This philosophy encourages individuals to discover their aspirations and create actionable pathways toward those goals. The hope is that this survey not only reveals the realities of being 40 today but also sparks personal reflection, guiding individuals toward a clearer vision of what they want to become.

Conclusion

This comprehensive survey sheds light on the modern challenges faced by today’s 40-year-olds in Japan. As many navigate uncertain career paths and financial landscapes, it’s essential for support systems to evolve accordingly, paving the way for a workforce that feels secure and empowered in their personal and professional journeys. As Human Holdings continues to champion educational and career development initiatives, they aim to facilitate a society where every individual can live authentically and ensure societal needs are met.

Survey Overview

• - Period: May 19-20, 2025
• - Participants: 1,000 (500 men and 500 women)
• - Method: Online survey

Human Holdings remains committed to addressing societal challenges, especially concerning workforce shortages and the implications of Japan's aging population. Their mission aligns with creating sustainable futures through innovative solutions in education and professional training.