Meet Divya Pal

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Divya Pal. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Divya below.

Divya, we’ve been so fortunate to work with so many incredible folks and one common thread we have seen is that those who have built amazing lives for themselves are also often the folks who are most generous. Where do you think your generosity comes from?

Generosity doesn’t mean giving material things but its about showing love, compassion, understanding, and tolerance. My generosity comes from my values, experiences, and upbringing, I was raised with a knowledge of helping people and I instill the same in my kids. Growing up in a household where helping others was always prioritized, my parents constantly encouraged me to give back to the community. I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given, and I feel it’s important to share those blessings by being generous to those in need.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I am an occupational therapist and have been working with seniors and older adults in nursing homes, and assisted and independent living facilities for the last 15 years to improve their quality of life. Working as an occupational therapist has taught me the profound importance of being kind and compassionate towards others. Every interaction is an opportunity to make a positive difference in someone’s life. “Warm smile is the universal language of kindness”, and I strongly believe in this. This inspiration led me and my family to give back to the community. I volunteer with my family at nursing homes, and senior living facilities by providing painting lessons, collecting and donating required items, celebrating birthdays, donating paintings for live and silent auctions for fundraising etc.
I am also a proud art teacher of my artist and philanthropist 15 years old son. I strongly believe in “that real living is living for others”. Raising and supporting my kids with an understanding of fundraising has brought a big change in our perspective of thinking and living. In today’s digital age, it’s easy to rely on screens to keep our kids occupied. However, there’s no substitute for the value of being physically present in their lives. Engaging in face-to-face interactions, sharing moments of joy, and providing a comforting presence are crucial for their emotional and social development. These interactions help build strong bonds, foster a sense of security, and teach valuable life skills that screens simply can’t provide. Let’s prioritize quality time together, creating memories that will last a lifetime. 🌟My son has raised and donated more than $22.0000 by selling his artwork to many non profit organizations like ST Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Make a Wish foundations, Easter Seals etc. He also does live paintings during fundraising events and has raised funds. As a mother, I am always present for my children, offering them unwavering support and guidance. I strive to lead them in the right direction, nurturing their growth with love, patience, and understanding. My goal is to help them navigate life’s challenges and celebrate their successes, ensuring they feel valued and confident every step of the way. I am committed to being present for my kids every step of the way, all while managing work and household chores. It’s a delicate balance, but one that’s incredibly rewarding.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Three important qualities I have acquired are loving, supportive, and kind
I possess a range of qualities and skills that enable me to provide the best care and guidance for my children, family, friends and my patients. I am nurturing and compassionate, always ready to offer a comforting hug or a listening ear. My patience allows me to handle challenging situations with grace, ensuring that my children and patients feel supported and understood.
I am also highly organized, managing the household and work and my children’s and patients schedules efficiently. My problem-solving skills help me navigate any obstacles that arise, finding creative solutions to ensure my family’s well-being. I am a strong communicator, able to convey important lessons and values to my children in a way that they can understand and appreciate. I am empathetic, always considering my children’s, patients feelings and perspectives. This helps me build a strong emotional connection with them, fostering an environment of trust and openness. My dedication to their growth and development is unwavering, as I continuously seek ways to support their academic, social, and emotional needs.
Beyond my role as a mother, I am also an artist with a deep passion for painting. I use my artistic skills to express myself and to create a relaxing environment for my family. Painting allows me to unwind and maintain my mental health, which in turn helps me be a more present and balanced parent. I encourage my children to explore their own creativity, using art as a means of self-expression and emotional release.
Overall, my qualities and skills as a mother, combined with my knowledge and passion for art, enable me to create a loving, supportive, and nurturing environment where my children can thrive.”

Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?

As an occupational therapist I try these following strategies and teach them to my clients as well.
Take Breaks: I like to take short breaks throughout the day. Step away from my tasks,by taking a walk, or simply sit quietly for a few minutes.
Prioritize Tasks: I Make a list of everything I need to do and prioritize them.
Focus on completing the most important tasks first and break larger tasks into smaller, more manageable steps like setting short term and long term goals.
Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness exercises such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. These practices helps calm your mind and reduce stress.
Stay Organized: I Keep my environment tidy and organized. A clutter-free space helps me feel more in control and less overwhelmed.
Set Boundaries: I have Learned to say no when its needed. It’s okay to set limits on personal time and energy to avoid taking on too much.
seek Support: I often Talk to friends, family, and express my feelings.
Engage in Creative Activities: As an artist, I find painting is a great outlet for stress and a way to relax.
Exercise Regularly: Physical activity helps me reduce stress, improve my mood and self esteem. I love and enjoy participating in group exercise classes.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: I Eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, and stay hydrated.
Taking care of your physical health can have a positive impact on mental well-being.
Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself and make yourself a priority. Acknowledge that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed and that you’re doing your best

Contact Info:

• Instagram: divifab9
• Facebook: Divya Pal
• Youtube: artbyarsh

Image Credits

Sanjeev Pal