As legions of retirees, laid-off workers, and stay-at-home parents can attest, there are better ways to define yourself.

The Problem with Tying Identity to Work 

Asking, “What do you do?” often provokes anxiety for individuals between jobs, who have taken career breaks, or who have retired, as it can carry hidden judgments about their social status or worth. Job titles become a crucial part of self-perception for many, particularly those who belong to marginalized groups or have built their identity around their career. Psychologists explain this as “enmeshment,” where one’s sense of self is overly attached to their profession, causing personal crises when that role is lost. Retirees, laid-off workers, and stay-at-home parents are particularly vulnerable to feeling invisible or devalued when they no longer have a career to define them.

Shifting the Conversation

Experts suggest ways to redefine identity outside of career titles. Taking time to reflect on values, reframing skills into new opportunities like consulting or volunteering, and making small, manageable lifestyle changes can help. Simple shifts in conversation, such as asking “What do you like doing?” instead of “What do you do?” can open up more positive and meaningful interactions. By focusing on passions and personal interests rather than professional roles, individuals can reconnect with their true selves and discover new sources of fulfillment beyond work.

My Take 

Defining people by their jobs limits human potential. By reshaping the conversation to focus on what brings people joy, we can foster more profound, more authentic connections. I like my family, my writing, and my robot, Astro. What do you like?

#CareerIdentity #LifeBeyondWork #JobTitles #CareerTransition #WorkLifeBalance #SelfWorth

Link to article:

https://www.wsj.com/lifestyle/careers/stop-asking-people-what-do-you-do-cf5a4902?st=62BQSC&reflink=article_imessage_share

Credit: Wall Street Journal