The article profiles a 36-year-old woman who has turned her challenges as a 'trailing spouse' into a flourishing business venture. Traditionally confined to supporting their spouse's career, this Japanese woman has taken charge and started her own enterprise. Motivated by her struggles, she aims to provide tangible solutions for other women grappling with similar challenges.
In Japan, the term 'trailing spouse' refers to a person who follows their partner abroad due to work assignments. This often leads to difficulties in maintaining a career due to language barriers or cultural differences. Women's career stagnation due to their spouse's career is a common social issue in Japan. However, entrepreneurship has increasingly become a viable option for such women, owing to avenues for remote work and digital businesses.
In the US and EU, the issues faced by trailing spouses are similar but there are more support mechanisms like language classes, career counselling and community groups. Furthermore, the concept of spouses sacrificing their careers for their partners' assignments is becoming less accepted, with more emphasis on equality and individual career growth.