Have you encountered individuals who shape their work and leisure on their terms, without being bound to any specific job? They’re known as the “freeters”, and you can readily explore related content on YouTube. Vlogs delving into the everyday experiences of freeters, such as “Why I’m working part-time at a convenience store at 30” and “Why I gave up job hunting,” often gain popularity and trend. Let’s take a closer look at the freeter class, which differs somewhat from the NEET class, comprising young individuals who are neither employed nor actively seeking employment.
Free Workers, the Freeter Class
The term “freeter” originated in Japan during the early 1990s, amidst an economic recession. It describes young individuals who opted for a modest lifestyle, sustaining themselves through part-time employment without committing to a specific career path. The term is a blend of “free,” symbolizing freedom, and “arbeiter,” the German word for worker. Freeters typically earn just enough to meet their immediate needs and are inclined to move between jobs or leave them altogether, prioritizing a lifestyle characterized by freedom, as suggested by the term itself.
Voluntary VS Involuntary
Freeters can be categorized into voluntary freeters and involuntary freeters. The former refers to people who actively choose to maintain part-time employment and do not pursue full-time positions, preferring to carve out their own unique career paths. On the other hand, involuntary freeters are those who have given up on regular employments due to significant job scarcity but remain open to rejoining the corporate workforce at any given opportunity.
Why is the Number of Freezers Increasing?
The population of freeters is steadily growing in our country, with a rising number of individuals who view this trend positively. The primary reason for viewing freeters favorably was that “they can live the life they want,”. Additionally, respondents expressed anticipation of reduced stress associated with societal expectations as another significant factor. Furthermore, when asked about their inclination to become a freeter in the future, more than 50% responded affirmatively, indicating a preference for this lifestyle.
Part-Time Work is a Job Too
As the employment landscape deteriorates and the concept of lifelong employment loses relevance, there’s a noticeable shift in the mindset of young individuals. This change in perception is contributing to a growing number of freeters, who sustain themselves through part-time work instead of traditional full-time employment. Consequently, part-time work is increasingly viewed as a valid and sustainable occupation. With the rising number of individuals abandoning job searches due to scarcity, the freeter population could potentially surge in the future.
Most Middle-Aged and Older Freeters are Livelihood Type
It’s true that most middle-aged and older freeters are of the livelihood type, compared to young people. It’s not uncommon to encounter individuals who, after fulfilling roles as homemakers for an extended period, transition to freeter status once their children reach school age. With the prolongation of average lifespans, individuals in their 60s remain active, and reliance solely on pensions proves inadequate. Consequently, the population of livelihood-oriented freeters is on the rise.
There are also “Freeker” Class
The “freeker” class, coined from “free” and “worker,” describes individuals who work until they accumulate sufficient savings, after which they easily leave their jobs. This group typically takes breaks for 1-2 years, using the money earned during their employment to pursue personal development, hobbies, or leisure activities. Unlike the “freeter” class, “freekers” are perceived more positively because they prioritize saving money to invest in leisure and cultural pursuits, thereby enhancing their quality of life.
Do I Have a Freeter Tendency?
If you’re curious whether you have a freeter tendency, consider asking yourself the following questions: I prefer part-time jobs over regular jobs / I prefer being alone unless there’s a special appointment / I lack ambition for a specific job, honor, or wealth / Traveling with my savings is my hobby / I want to earn just enough money and not more / The present is more important than a clear plan. If your tendencies align with more than half of these questions, you might have a freeter tendency.
Positive Direction of the Freeter Class
In these times when the concept of lifelong employment has significantly diminished, it’s widely acknowledged that achieving comfort through consistent work at a single job is challenging. From this perspective, the freeter class, which embraces freedom and autonomy without being bound by societal expectations, appears to be gaining traction, especially among the 2030 generation. With the freedom to manage their time as they see fit, freeters often experience high levels of self-satisfaction as a bonus, don’t you think?
Problems Faced by the Freeter Class
Freeters encounter challenges in attaining long-term economic stability. The irregular nature of their employment results in low wages, precarious job security, and a lack of social safety nets. Consequently, they may struggle to adequately prepare for retirement or experience anxiety about aging. Furthermore, societal perceptions often cast negative views on those without stable employment, adding to the pressures freeters face.
National Support Needed
As the freeter population grows, it becomes imperative for the government to implement diverse policies aimed at promoting economic and social stability. This may entail enhancing the working conditions of irregular workers and bolstering employment security. Additionally, shifting societal perceptions and fostering a culture that values and respects diverse work styles are crucial. Providing avenues for vocational training and lifelong learning to enhance individual competitiveness would further bolster support for freeters.
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