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The current activities of the Well-being Initiative reports on our work so far
Introduction to the latest developments in well-being research by domestic and international experts and researchers
Presentation of corporate initiatives towards well-being and more.

【Reflection】
This symposium featured multifaceted discussions on SWGs (Sustainable Well-being Goals), which are gaining attention as new international objectives as the 2030 deadline for the SDGs approaches. The opening session introduced the principles SWGs aim to achieve and their international significance, reaffirming the importance of building societies centered on well-being.

In a presentation by President Takakura of Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Group, specific initiatives were introduced regarding the social responsibilities companies should fulfill and the promotion of financial well-being through the financial industry. The perspective that maintaining individual health and happiness is directly linked to a company's sustainable growth left a deep impression on participants.

Next, the latest survey results using the “Ito Well-being Score” developed by Mr. Ito of Hitotsubashi University were presented. While confirming increased awareness and improvement in the actual experience of well-being within companies, the results also revealed challenges in intergenerational values and career independence. These results provided an opportunity to rethink the working environment and organizational culture, and specific directions for improving well-being were shared.

Mr. Nagayoshi from EY Japan introduced practical initiatives at his company, such as the well-being promotion system, the placement of well-being leaders in each department, and the employee “mood management” program. The importance of company-wide promotion based on data was emphasized, and it was highly evaluated as a good example of organizational culture transformation.

In addition, Persol Career's Editor-in-Chief Sakurai showed changes in the values of the younger generation in the job market and reported on the growing awareness of “working in a way that is true to oneself.” The importance of companies supporting diverse ways of working became clear and attracted attention as a new perspective for improving well-being.

Furthermore, in the dialogue session between future generations and management, the value of mobility and real experiences for well-being, as well as the significance of empathy and diversity, were discussed. The final panel, themed “SDGs & Beyond,” discussed the direction of international social goals beyond 2030, the connection between peace and the economy, and Japan's role on the global stage. Throughout the event, the importance of solving social issues and building a sustainable future centered on well-being was strongly conveyed to participants.

【Post EXPO Initiatives】
Based on the insights gained through this symposium, we will henceforth regard “well-being” as a core societal value and further advance initiatives where individuals, companies, and society collaborate to achieve sustainable development. In particular, it was confirmed that incorporating the perspective of SWGs into corporate management and expanding mechanisms to enhance the happiness and sense of fulfillment of each employee is crucial.

The promotion of financial well-being, as introduced by the Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Group, and the implementation of well-being initiatives rooted in organizational culture, as seen at EY Japan, serve as excellent reference cases for other companies. Going forward, it is hoped that such practices will be shared and that opportunities for mutual learning across industries and company sizes will be created.

Furthermore, we will continue surveys and analyses using scientific indicators like the Ito Well-being Score. By visualizing differences in awareness across generations and positions, we aim to derive more effective improvement measures. Addressing the changing career awareness of younger generations and promoting institutional designs that support “working authentically” is considered key to enhancing overall corporate well-being.

Furthermore, valuing the importance of “connections through travel and real-world experiences,” as highlighted in dialogues with future generations, and expanding opportunities for exchange across generations and borders is also a crucial initiative.
As demonstrated in the SDGs & Beyond discussions, Japan has a significant role to play in building a sustainable society beyond 2030, while striving for harmony among peace, economy, and society.

Building on the discussions at this symposium, we will continue to promote social transformation rooted in well-being. Through collaboration among private companies, research institutions, and the younger generation, we will advance initiatives toward creating a happy and sustainable future.

*Part or all of this report was generated by AI.