We recently connected with Bridget Papino and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Bridget, thank you for being such a positive, uplifting person. We’ve noticed that so many of the successful folks we’ve had the good fortune of connecting with have high levels of optimism and so we’d love to hear about your optimism and where you think it comes from.
My optimism has always been rooted in the belief that I could find sunshine even after enduring the rain. From a tender age, I grappled with heartaches, disappointments, and various traumas that threatened to consume me. It took time for my mental perspective to undergo a transformation, to realize that happiness invariably resides on the other side of the challenges we face. I came to understand that tough times are transient, fleeting in the grand scheme of life. I embarked on a journey of mental reprogramming, altering the way I perceived the world around me. I learned to see challenges and trials as opportunities and victories waiting to be seized.
As I matured, I began to recognize that these trials were essential growth experiences, vital steps on my path to self-improvement. They were tests I could overcome, or opportunities to build myself more effectively. Each time I lost something, I found something better soon after. Every instance of hurt led me to discover new reasons to smile. Whenever I doubted my worth, the universe gently reminded me of my intrinsic value. My growing ability to see these truths was paralleled by an increased capacity for acceptance.
With acceptance came a profound sense of empowerment, enabling me to take daring leaps of faith and calculated risks. I knew that the choices I made were aligned with my unique path. This shift in mindset catalyzed my growth and initiated a ripple effect in my life. It ingrained in me the understanding that the more I liberated myself from negativity and approached every situation with a positive outlook, the more positive outcomes I would encounter.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I’ve been dedicated to bridging the gap between the community, creatives, and the culture in New Jersey. After completing my education and working in the corporate world for several years, I returned back to focus with my mission. I noticed a disconnect between the local community and the burgeoning creative scene, which inspired me to take action.
I founded “We Are Jersey” to showcase the incredible talents within the state. I organized various events such as networking events, music shows, entrepreneur mixers and poetry nights to provide local artists, entrepreneurs and creatives with a platform and space to shine. My goal was to celebrate the arts, bring the community together, and uplift the positive occurances and spirit in my home state
I didn’t stop at organizing events; I also ventured into real estate to revitalize and bridge the gap between wealth through knowledge with all of those that I encounter. As I delved deeper into the media landscape, I realized that there was a parallel need for authentic representation and storytelling in real estate. The spaces we inhabit are not just bricks and mortar; they are the stages where our lives unfold. I recognized that by reimagining these spaces, I could foster a sense of belonging and bring communities closer together. Additionally, my focus was on creating opportunities for ownership while supporting the state’s history and culture but it grew into something more.
My work in media complemented my efforts in real estate. I used storytelling to showcase the beauty and diversity of the communities I was building. Through documentaries and online content, I shared the stories of the people who called these spaces home, capturing their struggles, triumphs, and dreams. This not only celebrated their voices but also attracted like-minded individuals who were drawn to the sense of belonging and unity.
My journey in bridging the gap between creatives, community, and culture has been incredibly rewarding. I’ve seen the transformational power of media and real estate when used to create spaces where people from all walks of life can come together, connect, and thrive. It’s a testament to the fact that, regardless of the niche, fostering meaningful relationships and celebrating culture can truly make a difference in the world.
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?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge stand out as the most impactful:
Vision and Creativity: Having a clear vision of what I wanted to achieve and the creativity to turn that vision into reality was essential. It allowed me to see opportunities where others might not and to envision spaces and stories that could bring people together. My advice to those starting their journey is to never stop dreaming and to cultivate their creativity through exposure to different experiences, cultures, and art forms. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and imagine a world that doesn’t exist yet.
Community Engagement and Empathy: Building bridges between creatives, community, and culture required a deep understanding of the needs, aspirations, and challenges of the people involved. Empathy was a key skill that helped me connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds. To those early in their journey, I would emphasize the importance of actively listening to others, seeking to understand their perspectives, and genuinely caring about their well-being. Building authentic relationships with the community you serve is paramount.
Adaptability and Learning: The worlds of media and real estate are ever-evolving. Being adaptable and open to continuous learning was crucial. I had to stay updated on industry trends, technology, and best practices to remain relevant and effective in my work. My advice is to embrace change, be a lifelong learner, and don’t be afraid to pivot when necessary. Surround yourself with mentors and peers who can help you grow and adapt to new challenges.
In summary, my journey was shaped by vision, creativity, empathy, adaptability, and a commitment to lifelong learning. My advice to those starting their journey is to cultivate these qualities and skills. Never lose sight of your vision, connect deeply with your community, and stay open to change and growth. With these foundations, you can make a meaningful impact in your chosen field and bridge the gaps between creatives, community, and culture in your own unique way.
Looking back over the past 12 months or so, what do you think has been your biggest area of improvement or growth?
In the past 12 months, my most significant area of growth and improvement has been in developing a deeper sense of self-concept, self-awareness, and self-love.
Navigating the complex worlds of media and real estate while bridging the gap between creatives, community, and culture has often demanded a great deal of self-reflection and understanding. I’ve realized that in order to effectively connect with others and foster meaningful relationships, I must first have a strong and authentic relationship with myself.
Self-concept, for me, has meant gaining a clearer understanding of my values, beliefs, and the core principles that drive my work. It’s about embracing my unique identity and recognizing the strengths I bring to the table. This has allowed me to approach my projects with a more authentic and genuine spirit, which, in turn, has resonated more deeply with the community I serve.
Self-awareness has been another crucial area of growth. It involves being in tune with my emotions, motivations, and reactions, especially in challenging situations. By developing greater self-awareness, I’ve been able to navigate complex negotiations, overcome obstacles, and respond to setbacks with resilience. It’s also allowed me to recognize areas where I can continue to improve and grow.
Perhaps most importantly, I’ve made strides in cultivating self-love. I’ve learned that self-love is not about being self-centered but rather about acknowledging my worth and treating myself with the same compassion and kindness that I extend to others. This has been transformative in my journey, as it’s allowed me to approach challenges and setbacks with a more positive and constructive mindset.
In summary, my most significant area of growth in the past 12 months has been in enhancing my self-concept, self-awareness, and self-love. These qualities have not only strengthened my personal well-being but have also enriched my ability to connect with and uplift the community and culture I am so passionate about. My advice to those on a similar journey is to prioritize self-discovery and self-care, as these are the foundations upon which meaningful connections and positive change can be built.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.wearejerseyent.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/jerseyqueen201
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/jerseyqueen201
Image Credits
Photo Credit: LacQuan Scott
