#Japan #Tokyo #Career Break #Takahiro Kitano #Yuka Harigai

Rethinking Work-Life: A Hybrid Event on Personal Time and Career Breaks

On September 28, 2026, the Protean Career Association will host an enlightening hybrid event titled “Finding Richness in Life Through ‘Personal Time’ and ‘Career Break’ Lessons from Denmark.” The discussions will be led by Yuka Harigai, a cultural researcher based in Denmark, and Takahiro Kitano, a prominent advocate for the concept of career breaks. They will share their expertise on how personal time and career breaks contribute to a fulfilling life and work.

The Purpose of the Event

In our fast-paced society, an increasing number of individuals feel overwhelmed and lack time for themselves. This event aims to shift the perspective that more effort is always the solution; rather, taking a step back and creating spaces to breathe might be the key to enriching one’s life. Aspects of work and happiness prevalent in Denmark will be introduced, emphasizing the power of reclaiming life’s direction through career breaks.

Event Highlights

The event is structured to foster a dialogue and will feature a talk session followed by an interaction segment. Here’s what attendees can expect:

1. The Value of Space and Personal Time: How taking time off can bring significant improvements in both personal and professional spheres.
2. Reframing Career Breaks: Understanding career breaks not as setbacks but as valuable opportunities for personal growth and reflection.
3. Adopting Danish Time Management: Exploring time management practices from Denmark that can be embraced in Japan.
4. Practical Tips for Reflection: Deriving insights and methods to re-evaluate personal lives and careers.
5. Networking with Like-minded Participants: Creating connections among individuals with similar interests in work-life balance.

Who Should Attend?

This event is tailored for professionals feeling overwhelmed by their busy schedules, those contemplating a career change, or anyone interested in discovering new strategies to lead a richer life. It's a chance to gather insights on how to create personal time, rethink career trajectories, and engage with others who share these passions.

Details of the Event

• - Date and Time: September 28, 2026, from 18:45 to 21:00
• - Location: Online via Zoom; In-person at the Protean Career Association’s Tokyo office.
• - Participation Fee: Free
• - Target Audience: HR professionals, HR Business Partners, and talent development specialists (Note: Participation from competitors is not allowed).

Featured Speakers

• - Yuka Harigai: A cultural researcher based in Denmark, she is the author of several books, including How Danes Create Their Personal Time and is known for her insights into work-life balance.
• - Takahiro Kitano: Head of the Career Break Institute, he studies and promotes the value of temporary career breaks. He has written several insightful books on the subject, helping individuals navigate the complexities of career interruptions.

Get Involved

To join this transformative discussion and start rethinking your approach to work and life, register through the following link: Registration Here.

This event is not just an opportunity for learning but also a platform for meaningful connections that could alter the course of your professional journey.