We were lucky to catch up with Bridget Papino recently and have shared our conversation below.
Bridget, we are so deeply grateful to you for opening up about your journey with mental health in the hops that it can help someone who might be going through something similar. Can you talk to us about your mental health journey and how you overcame or persisted despite any issues? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.
Fostering resilience amid mental health challenges has been a deeply personal journey for me all my life. Embracing vulnerability and seeking professional support alongside finding and trusting myself and my spirituality were pivotal steps for me. Through therapy, I cultivated coping mechanisms, gradually building a foundation for mental well-being. Mindfulness practices, a robust support system, and prioritizing self-care became daily rituals. Acknowledging the ebb and flow of mental health, I’ve learned to advocate for myself, and believe in myself and my power more, breaking the stigma. This journey shapes my leadership at We Are Jersey, fostering an inclusive environment where well-being is prioritized, inspiring others to embrace their struggles and persist toward growth and healing while maintaining the transparency needed during reflection.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
At We Are Jersey, our mission is to champion diversity, equity, and inclusion within the vibrant communities of New Jersey. What excites me most is creating a platform that celebrates the unique stories, cultures, and talents within our state. We foster unity through events, initiatives, and collaborations, emphasizing the strength found in our diversity. We’re proud to be a catalyst for positive change, creating opportunities and amplifying voices.
Currently, we’re gearing up for an exciting series of community engagement events, including workshops, discussions, and initiatives aimed at empowering and connecting diverse communities. Stay tuned for our upcoming projects as we continue to grow and make a meaningful impact in New Jersey.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities that played a pivotal role are resilience, adaptability, and community-building.
1. **Resilience:** Life’s journey is full of ups and downs. Resilience is the ability to bounce back from challenges. Embrace setbacks as opportunities for growth. Cultivate a mindset that sees adversity as a stepping stone rather than a roadblock.
2. **Adaptability:** The world is dynamic, and adaptability is key. Stay open to change, be willing to learn new skills, and adapt to evolving circumstances. Flexibility and a growth mindset empower you to navigate the ever-changing landscape effectively.
3. **Community-Building:** Building a supportive community is essential. Surround yourself with diverse perspectives and experiences. Foster genuine connections. Collaborate with others who share your values. Community is a source of strength and inspiration.
For those early in their journey, my advice is to embrace challenges as opportunities, stay open to learning, and cultivate authentic connections. Seek mentorship, learn from failures, and build a supportive network. Trust the process, believe in your capabilities, and remember that growth often happens outside your comfort zone. You are not alone—your journey is part of a larger, collective tapestry.
As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?
“Bell Hooks’ ‘All About Love’ has been a profound influence on my personal and professional development. Hooks beautifully explores the transformative power of love and its various dimensions. A few impactful insights that resonate deeply include:
1. **Love as Action:** Hooks emphasizes that love is not merely a feeling but an action. It requires continuous effort, intention, and commitment to create meaningful connections.
2. **Unlearning Toxic Behaviors:** The book delves into unlearning toxic behaviors inherited from societal norms. It encourages introspection, urging individuals to redefine love in healthier, more empowering ways.
3. **Building Beloved Communities:** Hooks envisions the power of love in building beloved communities. This resonates with my mission at We Are Jersey, emphasizing the importance of fostering unity and inclusivity in our diverse communities.
‘All About Love’ has been a guiding light in my journey, shaping my approach to leadership, community building, and the pursuit of a more compassionate and interconnected world.”
Contact Info:
- Website: www.wearejerseyent.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/jerseyqueen201
