The Millennial Struggle: Perfectionism, Anxiety, and Finding Control with Jenny Maepaa

The Second Degree with Emily Merrell

In this episode of The Second Degree Podcast, host Emily Merrell sits down with Jenny Maenpaa, a burnout coach and licensed psychotherapist, to explore the unique challenges faced by high-achieving millennial women.
Jenny, known for her candid and empowering approach, dives into the struggles of perfectionism, imposter syndrome, and the impact of the pandemic on personal aspirations.

Listeners will gain insights into why many women feel they’ve lost control over their lives and how societal expectations can exacerbate anxiety. The conversation also touches on generational dynamics between millennials and Gen Z, highlighting the differences in workplace attitudes and social interactions.

Jenny shares her philosophy on coping strategies, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging anxiety rather than suppressing it. With humor and honesty, she encourages listeners to embrace their journeys, even when they don't align with societal timelines. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the complexities of modern life while seeking empowerment and connection.

Highlights:

• Mouthy Feminism: Jenny describes herself as a "mouthy feminist," explaining that her upbringing shaped her confidence and advocacy for herself and others. She humorously recounts conversations with her father about how his parenting style influenced her feminist views.
• Millennial Stressors: The discussion highlights the myriad stressors affecting millennial women, including perfectionism, imposter syndrome, and societal pressures exacerbated by the pandemic. Jenny emphasizes how many women feel they have lost control over their lives due to circumstances beyond their influence.
• Generational Dynamics: Jenny and Emily explore the differences between millennials and Gen Z, noting how millennials are often caught between the expectations of older generations and the newer perspectives of younger ones. They discuss the impact of social media on mental health and societal interactions.
• Coping Strategies: Jenny shares her approach to coaching, which involves acknowledging anxiety rather than suppressing it. She advocates for leaning into feelings of discomfort and using creative outlets as a means to process emotions.
• Reflections on Aging: The conversation touches on the anxieties surrounding aging, particularly for women approaching 40 who feel they haven't achieved their life goals. Jenny offers insights on reframing these feelings and finding empowerment in personal narratives.
• Conclusion: The episode concludes with a call to embrace one's journey, recognizing that each individual's path is unique and shaped by both personal choices and external factors.

To learn more about Jenny Maenpaa check out her website https://www.jennymaenpaa.com/ and on instagram at @itsjennymaenpaa
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