On Nov. 3, ROI-NJ hosted The Capacity to Care: Putting Yourself First Without Guilt at Galloping Hill Golf Course in Kenilworth, bringing together leaders from business, health care and nonprofit sectors for a candid conversation about the importance of self-care in sustaining effective leadership and personal resilience.
The panel featured Terry Connolly, CEO of nourish.NJ; Lisa Dressner, vice president of behavioral health and vice president of psychiatric emergency services at Trinitas Regional Medical Center and RWJBarnabas Health Behavioral Health Service Line; Jing Wang, activity management director at Mars Snacking; and Renada Williams, Esq., general counsel and chief human resources officer at Kenneth Cole Productions.
The discussion was moderated by Jennifer Thibodaux, founder of JMT Speaks, attorney, editor and author.
The conversation centered on how prioritizing one’s own health and wellness is not merely optional, but foundational to leading others.
“Self-care is not necessarily just a capacity — it’s a capability,” Wang said. “We can actually practice it, learn it, and be better at it. Understand self-care is a journey. Progress over perfection. Allow yourself to start something small and be better every day.”
Thibodaux echoed that message, encouraging attendees to take small, meaningful steps toward self-care. “Self-care is not selfish. It is something that we all need to harness and make a regular part of our daily practice. As women, we think that we have to do everything big or perfectly,” she said. “It doesn’t have to be this big thing that costs a lot of money or takes a lot of time. Those small steps go a long way.”
Panelists emphasized that self-care contributes not only to individual well-being but also to workplace culture, performance and long-term sustainability. They shared personal examples of how setting boundaries and building daily habits can enhance focus, clarity and empathy in leadership.
The discussion closed with a reminder that resilience begins with awareness — and that professionals who invest in their own balance are better equipped to support their teams, families and communities.
