What is a Freeter?

Freeter is a social term originating in Japan, a portmanteau of 'free' and 'arbeiter' (Freeter). Freeter refers to young people who don't confine themselves to the framework of a regular job and instead forge their own paths. They seek out jobs and lifestyles that suit them through diverse experiences, proposing a new life paradigm that prioritizes individual happiness and satisfaction.

1. Increasing Trend of Freeters

Recently, online searches for 'freeter' have surged, and related communities and bulletin boards are witnessing lively discussions. YouTube videos featuring the lives of freeters are gaining popularity, and it appears that the MZ generation holds a positive view of this lifestyle.

2. Different Life Values from the Older Generation

Freeters prioritize a free and individualistic lifestyle over difficult and demanding jobs. They are breaking free from the obsession with regular employment and exploring diverse experiences to discover work and life paths that suit them.

They value solitary time and leisure activities, seeking a balance between work and life. They focus on present happiness rather than prestige or wealth, holding beliefs like 'I don't want to earn more than the minimum necessary' and 'the present is more important than having a concrete future plan'.

3. Background of the Increase in Freeters

The reasons behind the increasing number of freeters include a frozen employment environment and changes in lifestyle patterns. The decline in quality job opportunities and the rise in youth unemployment have made it difficult to secure regular employment.

A shift in values towards work has led to a growing number of people who prioritize personal happiness and life satisfaction. Mental health issues stemming from intensified competition and increased stress have also contributed to the rise of freeters.

4. Impact of Freeters on Society

Freeters have both positive and negative impacts on society. On the positive side, they contribute to the spread of a culture that prioritizes work-life balance, develop human resources through diverse experiences, and promote the value of individual happiness and satisfaction.

On the other hand, negative aspects include economic difficulties due to unstable income, a lack of social safety nets, and an increase in future uncertainty.

5. Future Prospects of Freeters

As it is expected that improving the employment environment will be difficult and that the young generation's values will continue to change, the number of freeters is likely to increase further in the future. Society must address the prejudice against freeters, expand social support, and respect various lifestyles.

Furthermore, the government needs to develop educational programs and employment support policies targeting freeters and strengthen the social safety net.

6. Freeters: Not Just a Choice, but a New Possibility

Freeters are not simply a generation that has given up on regular employment. They are a generation that is forging their own paths and challenging new possibilities. Instead of criticizing or ignoring freeters, society should respect their choices and support them in living their lives.

7. Successful Freeter Cases

• Youtuber A gained popularity by creating content based on their travel experiences while working part-time at a convenience store.
• Blogger B accumulated experience through various part-time jobs and successfully launched a business based on their experiences.
• Writer C published a novel inspired by their freeter life, achieving bestseller status.

8. Precautions for Freeters

To succeed as a freeter, you should pay attention to the following points.

Clear Goal Setting: You need to set clear goals regarding what you want to achieve through your freeter life.

Planned Career Management: You should develop a career development plan tailored to your individual needs based on diverse experiences.

Continuous Learning: You need to strive for acquiring new skills and knowledge and enhance your competitiveness through self-development.

Networking: You should interact with various people to share information and expand opportunities.

Utilize Government Support Policies: You should actively utilize employment support policies and educational programs designed for freeters.

9. Societal Perception Change Needed for Freeters

Society needs to abandon its prejudices against freeters and encourage and support their endeavors. Freeters are not simply a generation that has given up on regular jobs; they are a generation that is forging their own paths and challenging new possibilities. Society should respect their choices and support them in living their lives.

10. Impact of Freeters on Future Society

Freeters have a high potential to become leaders in future society. With their diverse experiences and pursuit of a free lifestyle, freeters are expected to play a crucial role in driving future societal change.