How multiple identities influence wellbeing at work and in life

Expectations are rising, and showing up across multiple roles has become part of how many people work. Over time, it gets harder to sustain.

To explore this, Jessica Schmidt speaks with Yoy Bergs, lecturer and researcher at Breda University of Applied Sciences, and Marcus Jarl, EY Nordics Future of Work Behaviors Lead. They explore what Yoy Bergs calls the “multiple identities paradox,” where different roles can both support and strain wellbeing.

The discussion looks at the effort it takes to manage expectations, the tension between fitting in and standing out, and why this balance is difficult to sustain over time.

Key takeaways include:

• Understand how multiple work and nonwork identities affect wellbeing over time.
• Recognize the identity paradox between enrichment and depletion.
• Gain practical reflections on balancing fitting in and standing out at work.
• Learn how leaders can create inclusive environments that support identity and belonging.
• Reflect on how awareness of time and energy use can support sustainable performance.