Jo Knows: #WomanWithAPlan

Joann (Jo) Eisenhart, Ph.D., is the senior vice president of human resources, facilities and philanthropy for Northwestern Mutual. Eisenhart holds a doctorate in human organizational development where her dissertation research focused on the topic of women, leadership and power in large corporations. Best of all, and most recently, she is encouraging women to create a plan by experimenting and finding out what they love. Eisenhart believes that nothing can stop a woman with a plan.

As women continue to assume leadership roles in business and society, research still shows untapped leadership potential among women and less self-assuredness compared to men. Northwestern Mutual’s recent Elements of Success survey found that despite the fact that women make up the majority of college graduates and comprise nearly half of the labor force, only one third of women believe they have achieved their financial goals.

The results of the study helped support their #WomanWithAPlan project that honors the accomplishments of women who have found success through dedication and preparation.

“Each of us has a unique power and the key is to figure out how to use your power in a way that’s authentic to yourself,” says Eisenhart. “Women who tap into their power can achieve great things, from planning for a strong financial future to managing opportunities and challenges in their careers and personal lives.”

The study also revealed that women are tough critics when self-reflecting, despite the fact that 82 percent feel they are at least as successful as their parents were at the same age. When comparing their lives to others, they are much more likely to say they are successful versus when thinking about how their lives measure up to their own goals.

It may not be surprising that women view success and happiness through a comprehensive lens. The top three most important aspects of success for women are:

“Being happy” (84 percent)
“Having enough money to pay the bills” (79 percent)
“Being healthy” (79 percent)

“The sort of planning that led me to where I am in life consisted of thinking of what I enjoyed and thinking of how I can use what I enjoy to do in a career.  And, how that can fit into my life,” says Eisenhart. “I don’t think it’s a stretch to do anything. If you put a plan in place, I think you can accomplish anything.”

Eisenhart continues to share her encouraging words and how #WomanWithAPlan can be an unstoppable force: