We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Cristi Bundukamara a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am a national speaker on mental strength, and I founded Mentally STRONG, an outpatient psychiatric practice in Colorado Springs and the Mentally STRONG Academy. I empower Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners to open their own Mentally STRONG practices and we currently have two more locations nationally. My real passion lies in teaching the Mentally STRONG Method, a cognitive-behavioral approach that empowers individuals to develop resilience and emotional well-being.
What excites me most about what I do is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. Mental health is an incredibly important aspect of overall well-being and we are all on a mental health journey, and by sharing my experiences and expertise, I aim to inspire and guide others on their journey to mental strength.
I am thrilled to announce the launch of my new book, “Pain & Purpose: My Journey to Mental Strength,” which is now available on Amazon. This book is a deeply personal account of my own experiences and the strategies I’ve developed to overcome adversity. It serves as a source of inspiration and guidance for those facing their own challenges and seeking to cultivate mental strength.
In addition to the book, I offer two online courses to further support individuals and families in their pursuit of mental strength. The Mentally STRONG Method Course is a self-paced online course and provides a comprehensive understanding of the method, while the Raising Mentally STRONG Kids Course equips parents with the tools to instill resilience in their children from a young age.
As for what’s new, I’m constantly working on expanding my reach and impact. I have upcoming speaking engagements, events, and other initiatives in the pipeline, so I encourage readers to stay tuned for updates on my website or through my social media channels.
I am dedicated to helping people find their inner strength, overcome challenges, and lead more fulfilling lives. If you’re looking to embark on a journey towards greater mental strength, I invite you to explore my resources and connect with me. Together, we can work towards a mentally strong and resilient future.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Reflecting on my journey, I believe there were three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in my path to mental strength:
Willingness to Learn New Things: Embracing a growth mindset and a constant hunger for knowledge has been essential. In the field of mental health and personal resilience, new research, therapies, and techniques are continually emerging. Being open to learning and adapting to new information is crucial. My advice to those early in their journey is to never stop seeking knowledge. Read books, attend seminars, and stay updated on the latest developments in your field. The more you learn, the more you can apply that knowledge to your own growth and the benefit of others.
Perseverance and Resilience: Resilience isn’t just the end goal; it’s also a quality that helps you navigate the journey itself, but the most important thing is that you can learn to be resilient, it’s not just something you have or don’t have. Life is filled with challenges, setbacks, and obstacles, but the key is to never give up. When faced with adversity, remember that it’s an opportunity for growth and transformation. Don’t be discouraged by failures or setbacks; instead, view them as valuable lessons on the road to success and personal development.
Self-Care and Self-Discovery: Understanding yourself, your needs, and what truly fills your cup is vital. Self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity for maintaining mental strength. For those starting their journey, I advise you to invest time in self-discovery. Explore various self-care practices, whether they involve physical, emotional, or spiritual well-being. Find what truly nourishes and replenishes you and make it a regular part of your routine. Remember that self-care is not selfish but rather a foundation for resilience and helping others.
My ultimate advice to those beginning their journey toward mental strength is to embrace each step as an opportunity for growth and transformation. Stay open to learning, never give up in the face of adversity, and prioritize self-care to fuel your resilience. Your path to mental strength is a lifelong journey, and it’s one that will empower you to lead a more fulfilling and purposeful life.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
We’re actively seeking entrepreneurs, professionals in the field, or anyone with a passion for promoting mental strength. I host a YouTube Video Podcast called “Embrace the Journey,” where we discuss how individuals are making a difference in their communities by fostering mental strength. We’re also offering a unique opportunity for a personal experiences with the Mentally STRONG Method as part of the podcast. If you would like to be part of our podcast or share your insights on mental strength, please reach out to us at [email protected].
We’re excited to connect with individuals who share our commitment to empowering others with the tools to build resilience and mental strength. Your involvement could help us make a significant impact, so feel free to get in touch!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.cristibundukamara.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/cristibundukamara
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mentallystrongacademybyDr.B/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cristi-bundukamara-ed-d-pmhnp-bc-dr-b-713432b0/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/cristibundukama
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
- Other: mentallystrongacademy.com
