Career regrets and realities for workers in Japan

I know numerous expats in Japan who are here for work purposes, and obviously taking that step involves a series of calculated decisions. A new survey from Tokyo-based CAREER FOCUS Inc. highlighted how certain choices can shape careers years later, and why they are especially relevant for expats working in Japan.

The study surveyed 1,500 full-time employees in their 30s and 40s, and found that 84.7% regret at least one past career decision. On average, those regrets are estimated to reduce lifetime income by 18.5 million yen, with potential losses of up to 42 million yen in missed opportunities. While the respondents were Japanese workers, I think that many of the patterns mirror challenges commonly faced by foreign professionals.

Two ages emerged as major pressure points, which were around 28, when differences in pay, responsibility, and international exposure become clearer, and around 35, when promotion ceilings and perceived declines in market value set in. For expats, these moments may coincide with the question of whether Japan is a short-term stop or a long-term base.

Many respondents cited delaying job changes, turning down global roles due to language anxiety, or postponing skill development while relying on company stability. Procrastination, rather than lack of ability, was the biggest source of regret.

Do you have any career regrets during your time in Japan, or are you pretty happy with your trajectory as it is right now?