We recently connected with Mario Johnson and have shared our conversation below.
Mario, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
I draw my resilience from a combination of personal experiences and my spiritual beliefs. Throughout my life, I’ve faced challenges that have tested my strength, but each time, I’ve found a way to move forward, learning from each setback. I’ve learned that setbacks are often stepping stones for growth, and that mindset has helped me bounce back stronger.
In addition to my personal experiences, my faith plays a big role in how I handle tough situations. Believing that everything happens for a reason and that there is a bigger purpose keeps me grounded when life feels overwhelming. Prayer and reflection give me a sense of peace and clarity, reminding me that I’m not alone in facing challenges. This balance of resilience from within and my spiritual practices gives me the strength to keep pushing forward, no matter the obstacles.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
My name is Mario Johnson, and my journey has been shaped by years of struggling with drug addiction and mental health challenges, which began at the age of 15. I grew up in a broken home filled with chaos and dysfunction, and for many years, I lived a life that seemed impossible to escape. However, in February of 2021, I made the life-changing decision to get clean and sober with the help of incredible individuals at the Shine a Light Foundation.
Since that moment, my life has completely transformed. I got married, and now, I’m a proud father to an 18-month-old baby boy named Angelo and two teenage step-sons, Aiden and AJ. I began my professional journey in treatment as a behavioral health technician three years ago, and more recently, I secured a position as a case manager with the Shine a Light Foundation.
Now, my mission is to help others rebuild their lives, just as I once had to. My work brings a sense of purpose, knowing that I’m able to make a positive impact on others who find themselves in the same place I was once in. This path has truly given me a renewed sense of hope and direction.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
The three qualities that had the most impact on my journey are my sense of humor, the support of my family, and the people around me. My sense of humor helped me through some of the toughest times, allowing me to stay lighthearted and not take myself too seriously, even when things felt overwhelming. It gave me the resilience to keep moving forward.
My family has been my rock, offering unwavering support, love, and encouragement, especially when I couldn’t see my own potential. They believed in me even when I didn’t believe in myself.
Equally important has been the strong support system I’ve built around me. The people who’ve walked alongside me—whether through the Shine a Light Foundation or my personal network—have shown me that I’m not alone in my struggles. They’ve provided guidance, shared their own experiences, and given me the motivation to keep going.
For those early in their journey, developing a sense of humor, leaning on family support, and building a strong support system are crucial for navigating the challenges ahead. A sense of humor helps lighten the weight of tough times, allowing you to see the lighter side of things and not get lost in the struggle. It can be a powerful coping tool when things feel overwhelming. Family support is equally important; if your family is there, embrace their love and encouragement, and if not, focus on rebuilding those relationships through open communication. Remember, you can also build a “chosen family” through people who truly understand your journey. Finally, surround yourself with others who can relate to your experience and offer guidance—whether through support groups, mentors, or peers. Building a strong, positive support system will be your anchor in recovery and help you stay focused on the path ahead
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
The most helpful influences in overcoming challenges and developing the essential skills I needed to succeed have been my sponsor and the successful people I surround myself with. My sponsor has played an invaluable role in guiding me through difficult moments, offering wisdom, support, and accountability. Their experience and guidance have helped me stay focused and motivated, especially when things seemed uncertain.
Equally important is the group of successful people I’ve surrounded myself with. Being around individuals who inspire me, challenge me, and show me what’s possible has pushed me to grow. Their example has taught me the value of hard work, resilience, and a positive mindset. I’ve learned so much from their journeys, and they’ve made a huge impact on shaping the person I am today.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://shinealightlv.com
- Instagram: shine_a_lightlv
- Facebook: Shine a light foundation
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
