Temporal Landmarks : Introducing Dr. Penn
In her book How to Change: The Science of Getting From Where You Are to Where You Want to Be, Katy Milkman provides insights based on her research into what motivates individuals to make and sustain changes in their lives. She popularized the concept of the Fresh Start Effect, demonstrating that people are more willing to change behaviors around major milestones or life events. These temporal landmarks, as she refers to them, allow us to feel more optimistic about the future and willing to disrupt existing routines. The start of a new year is a classic temporal landmark, and when combined with two major life events, it is the perfect time for me to make a major change in my life. Allow me to reintroduce myself. My name is Dr. Katherine Penn, Katie for short, or Dr. K for those who know.
I experienced two major life events in 2023 – the completion of my doctorate degree and the finalization of my divorce. Each ending corresponds with a change in my identity, most visibly, my name. The importance of a name is widely recognized across several cultures and traditions. Changing one’s name has also been associated with various factors like assimilating to a new country, signifying ownership, or embracing a true sense of self. For me, this new title and name signify both a new beginning and a way to reclaim an important part of my history.
First, the new beginning. I have always considered myself a practitioner and a learner, but never a scholar. I am dedicated to creating systemic change and fostering brave spaces for engagement in organizations. I started my doctoral journey to learn more about the practices and phenomena driving this work in organizations. The journey equipped me with new skills, allowing me not just to learn but also to add to this field of research. My research exploring the critical moments of inclusion experienced by professional staff in higher education contributes much-needed insight into the study of workplace inclusion. Creating inclusive environments that allow individuals to feel a sense of belonging without sacrificing their authenticity is at the core of my life, my work, and now, my research. You do not receive a doctorate; you earn a doctorate. In addition to the title of Dr., I also gained the confidence to call myself a practitioner–scholar.
Now to the reclamation. When I changed my name to Lampley in 2001 it was difficult. I had so much pride in being a Penn. In the Virgin Islands, where I grew up, that name meant something. As a kid who desperately wanted to belong, my name provided a powerful link to a family, a history, and the land. Becoming a Lampley was an act of love and respect for my new husband and demonstrated a desire to ensure that my children would feel the familial connection I longed for. When we agreed to consciously uncouple in 2023, I knew I would return to my maiden name. The change is a way to mark the transition of our relationship from marriage to friendship. But more importantly, to be a Penn again is a reaffirmation of my connection to who I am and where I come from. I never stopped being a Penn, but being called by that name again feels more authentic to who I am and is a symbolic reminder that I belong.
Change is disruptive and often messy, which is why we avoid it. Changing one’s name on legal documents and social media accounts is time-consuming and emotionally exhausting. Taking advantage of the fresh start effect has helped to provide the motivation I needed to take these steps. Combining the shift in identity sparked by these critical temporal landmarks has given the process more meaning. In fact, I got married the same year I completed my MBA, so perhaps I should have anticipated this educational achievement would spark a major shift. While I was reticent to begin this process, I have felt empowered and energized with every new identification, letter in the mail, or document that says Katherine Penn. I am excited for all that lay ahead.
What major change(s) are you avoiding? Take advantage of the fresh start effect and commit to one big change this year. Linking the change with major temporal landmarks can provide motivation and reduce any resistance. You got this!