Discover how to embrace your true self beyond the workplace.

  • The question ‘What do you do?’ can trigger anxiety for those who have taken career breaks.
  • This issue affects a diverse group, including stay-at-home parents, laid-off workers, and retirees.
  • Many individuals tie their identity closely to their job titles, leading to feelings of loss when unemployed.
  • Experts suggest reframing how we define ourselves and finding new ways to introduce ourselves.
  • Younger generations are becoming more open to diverse life paths beyond traditional careers.

For many, the question ‘What do you do?’ can evoke feelings of dread, especially for those who have taken career breaks. This question often carries hidden judgments about social status, income, and worth. While this has long been a concern for professional women who leave the workforce to raise children, it now impacts a broader range of individuals, including stay-at-home fathers, gig workers, and retirees. Jen Kling, a consumer brand marketer from Orlando, describes it as the worst question for someone out of work, as society tends to categorize people into easily digestible boxes. nnJames Reichert, a New York entrepreneur, humorously addressed this by printing business cards that labeled him a ‘Trophy Husband’ after relocating for his then-wife’s job. Ashley Scott, a corporate sustainability manager, found herself fabricating stories about being in grad school after being laid off, fearing judgment from others. This highlights a deeper issue: many people derive their identity from their work, a phenomenon psychologists refer to as ‘enmeshment.’ nnCareer experts recommend staying engaged through freelancing or consulting, but for those with impressive titles, the transition to ‘self-employed’ can feel disheartening. Kelly McMenamin, who transitioned from a financial analyst to a small business owner, recalls the stark change in perception when she no longer held a prestigious title. nnRachel Fortenberry-Deutschel, a former automotive parts executive, struggles with her identity after leaving her job, feeling that her title provided validation as a successful immigrant and female leader in a male-dominated industry. This obsession with work as a core part of identity is particularly pronounced in American culture, where the Protestant work ethic has led to an unhealthy fixation on careers, termed ‘workism.’ nnThe pandemic has prompted many to reassess their priorities, with younger generations showing more openness to diverse life paths. Experts suggest that those grappling with career enmeshment can benefit from reflecting on their values, reframing their skills, and finding new ways to introduce themselves. Simple questions like ‘What are you up to?’ can lead to more meaningful conversations than the traditional ‘What do you do?’. nnUltimately, redefining oneself beyond job titles can lead to a more fulfilling life, allowing individuals to explore their passions and interests outside of work.·

Factuality Level: 7
Factuality Justification: The article provides a thoughtful exploration of the identity crisis many face when they experience career breaks, supported by personal anecdotes and expert opinions. However, it occasionally leans towards subjective interpretations and generalizations about societal perceptions of work, which may not universally apply. While it avoids sensationalism and misleading information, some statements could benefit from more empirical backing.·
Noise Level: 8
Noise Justification: The article provides a thoughtful analysis of the societal implications of career identity and the emotional challenges faced by individuals during career transitions. It includes personal anecdotes, expert opinions, and actionable insights for readers to redefine their self-worth beyond job titles. The content is relevant, well-structured, and stays on topic, supporting its claims with examples and expert commentary.·
Key People: Jen Kling (consumer brand marketer), James Reichert (entrepreneur), Ashley Scott (corporate sustainability manager), Kelly McMenamin (nonprofit executive), Rachel Fortenberry-Deutschel (former top automotive parts executive), Liz Weaver (career coach), Bill George (former CEO of Medtronic), Angela Calman (communications executive), Teri Wadsworth (innovation consulting firm co-owner), Koretz (Boston-based psychologist), David Johnson (marketing and strategy consultant), Joanne Lipman (former chief content officer of Gannett and editor in chief of USA Today)

Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: No
Financial Rating Justification: The article discusses the impact of career breaks and job loss on personal identity and societal perceptions, which are financial topics as they relate to employment and economic stability. However, it does not mention specific events that impact financial markets or companies.·
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: No
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: No
Extreme Rating Justification: The article discusses the societal perceptions and personal impacts of career breaks and job loss, but it does not describe any extreme event that occurred in the last 48 hours.·
Move Size: No market move size mentioned.
Sector: All
Direction: Neutral
Magnitude: Medium
Affected Instruments: No

Reported publicly: www.wsj.com