Women for Women panel encourages finding your joy, following your instincts

PARAMUS — Discovering what brings you joy, learning to treat yourself and knowing when to follow your instincts were just a few of the ways women were telling other women to follow their passions at the 11th North Jersey Events' Women for Women.

The networking event and panel, sponsored by Holy Name Medical Center, was held Tuesday night at The Terrace at Biagio’s in Paramus with the theme of "Finding Your Greatness." The panel, which was moderated by The Record and NorthJersey.com’s Liz Johnson, brought together a group of inspiring women to help others learn not only how to balance life and work, but also to find their own voice.

Tara Setmayer, a CNN political commentator, ABC news political contributor and former GOP communications director, said one of the greatest things a woman can do for herself is never being afraid to spend time by herself, whether it's going on a 10-day trip to Italy or something smaller and closer to home.

“It’s OK to spend time by yourself, whatever that means for you,” said Setmayer.

For some women, trying to find a balance between work and family can be a difficult task. One of the ways Jessica Lisboa, an educator, school co-founder and lifestyle blogger, likes to tackle this dilemma is to give herself a “golden hour” every night, which she can choose to spend however she wants.

READ MORE:Women for Women in Paramus

Ayesha Mayadas, a studio jewelry artist with a business in Englewood, said women will tend to see more results from their efforts when they decide to pursue something they are passionate about.

“A Sunday in the studio by myself is perfection for me," said Mayadas.

Before the panel, attendees also learned more about women’s heart health with a presentation by Dr. Zankhana Raval, interventional cardiologist at Holy Name Medical Center.

While most people may not think heart disease is a “woman’s disease,” more women than men die of it each year, said Raval. She encouraged each woman in the room to learn her blood pressure and cholesterol, to exercise and to always go to the doctor if something seems wrong.

“Cardiovascular disease can be prevented, but it needs buy-in from us,” said Raval. “We need to prioritize our own health.”

Other panelists at the event included Sandy Rubinstein, CEO of DXagency; Denise Woodard, founder of Partake Foods and Kendall Zoppa, a lifestyle and wellness coach.