It is commonplace for people to tether their identity to their job. This is especially true for high performers, high achievers, individuals who are highly self-motivated, and people who are in demanding careers. Unfortunately, this mindset can limit individual and organizational performance. When workplace performance, actual or perceived, is associated with who they are personally, it leads to defensiveness, anxiety, stress, being closed off to opportunities, an inability to effectively manage challenges, etc. Additionally, if the individual is no longer able to perform their job for reasons, such as retirement, sickness, or injury they can experience a profound loss of self. This is especially true for municipal leaders who often feel the pressure to be a certain version of yourself during both professional and personal time.
Presenters Aaron and Jessie Jenson will share lessons learned through life experiences and provide actionable tips to create a healthier relationship between your identity and your profession allowing you to achieve greater results and satisfaction in both.
Since 2019 Aaron has worked as the City Administrator for the City of Waupaca. Aaron previously held positions as a Parks and Recreation Director and School Athletic Director. Aaron graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Recreation Management at UW-La Crosse and a Master’s in Public Administration at UW-Oshkosh.
Jessie is currently in her 3rd year of a PhD program as she works to become a Neuropsychologist and is the owner of Insight Counseling Services in Waupaca. Jessie has a bachelor’s degree from UW-Lacrosse in Psychology, a Master’s Degree in Clinical Counseling from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology and a second Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Fielding Graduate University.