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≪FIRST HALF≫

Let’s Vent Our Year-End Frustrations!

As 2026 is just around the corner, many of us may be feeling the fatigue and frustrations that have built up over the past about twelve months.

This session is designed to be an open space where we can talk frankly about the stress we experience at work or school, across generations.

In particular, there has been a growing number of voices expressing difficulty in working with Generation Z (ages 16–30). I am one of them.

Whether it is relying on AI tools before thinking things through, waiting for instructions, or having largely different values, these differences can be a source of confusion and stress.

It goes without saying that, at the same time, Gen Z may also be struggling with the generational gap and feeling misunderstood by older colleagues.

In this discussion, we will not only vent our frustrations but also explore constructive ways to work together across generations without unnecessary stress.

Please feel free to share your honest thoughts and experiences. I hope this becomes a space where we can all say, “I totally get that!（あるある！）” and find common ground.

<Questions>

Question 1: What kind of stress do you feel when working with Gen Z?

For those in their 30s and above: Share specific examples of stress or confusion you have experienced when working with Gen Z (ages 16–30).

For Gen Z participants: Share specific examples of stress or discomfort you have felt when working with older generations.

For students: Share examples of everyday stress you experience in school or part-time jobs.

<Examples> waiting for instructions, over-reliance on digital tools, value differences, communication gaps

Question 2: What are the causes behind these stresses?

What root factors such as upbringing, education, or technology, do you think contribute to these issues?

Are your own values or expectations part of the stress?

<Examples:> “Showa/Heisei grit culture” vs “Reiwa efficiency and rationality”

Question 3: What can we do to achieve results across generations without stress?

Let’s discuss practical approaches and efforts (e.g., explaining the background of tasks, giving feedback, sharing how to use tools).

If you have examples of what worked well / or didn’t, please share them.

<Examples> weekly 1-on-1s, explaining the purpose of tasks, leveraging individual strengths

Question 4 (If there’s time left): What kind of working style do you want to aim for in 2026?

To reduce stress and build a collaborative workplace across generations, what changes or challenges do you want to take on personally?

<Examples> being more understanding, flexible communication

Please summarize Q3 and share one with other group within around 90 seconds.

≪LATTER HALF≫

Ikigai

The Japanese concept of ikigai is gaining attention overseas. Neurologist Kenichiro Mogi’s book “IKIGAI” has been a bestseller, ranking number one for 15 consecutive weeks. Ikigai is thought to combine the Japanese words ikiru, meaning “to live”, and kai, meaning “value or worth”. Together these definitions create the concept of “a reason to live” or the idea of having a purpose in life.

Why is it gaining attention? Several studies have hypothesized that “Ikigai” is associated with longevity and improved quality of life. One survey found that people with “ikigai” had a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and lower mortality rates. Being mindful of meaning to live and contribution to the society, and sharing it with others, may help avoid social isolation while also bringing happiness. Furthermore, having something that involves active engagement, concentration, and sustained satisfaction can potentially lead to an improved quality of life.

There’s no single way to find your ikigai, but you can start by asking a few simple questions: What makes you happy? What are you good at? What (and who) do you value? What motivates you to get up in the morning? The pursuit of purpose is a concept applicable at any stage of life, fostering growth both professionally and personally. Why not consider reflecting on your purpose or embarking on a new quest to enhance your life satisfaction?

<Questions>

Q1. What motivates you to get up in the morning?

Q2. Is ikigai an internal feeling, or does it require recognition or contribution to others?

Q3. Can technology and AI help people discover their ikigai, or does it make it harder to find purpose?

Please share a summary of your discussion on Q.3.

<References>

This Japanese secret to a longer and happier life is gaining attention from millions around the world

https://www.cnbc.com/2019/05/22/the-japanese-secret-to-a-longer-and-happier-life-is-gaining-attention-from-millions.html

Is this Japanese concept the secret to a long, happy, meaningful life?

https://www.weforum.org/stories/2017/08/is-this-japanese-concept-the-secret-to-a-long-life/

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