Amy Spadafora learned at age five, when her parents divorced, the importance of resilience, to help her navigate the upheaval. Having a strong-willed mother also taught Amy the coping skills to face any challenge that she’d face in life.
I believe in planning for everything. When pursuing a goal, it’s vital to have a plan A, B, and even C because rarely do things go the way we anticipate. Without a backup plan, unexpected roadblocks can threaten our chance for success, but being adaptable to trying different paths can lead to rewards we’ve never considered. Game plans help me to survive; they’re how I’ve overcome anxiety from the fear of failure. Staying the course and accepting that there will be setbacks is important, just as knowing that you’re not alone can give you strength.
As a player and captain in various sports, I’ve met many people and gained friendships throughout life who later became a support network to lean on in times of self-doubt. I try to empower others by being inclusive, since each one of us has a gift to contribute. Success has come through all the people who have shared in my life.
Having someone in your corner helps move you forward which is why I became a Recreational Therapist for children with special needs – to provide the support to achieve their best, using abilities they possess, not what others believe they should have. Never letting others dictate my direction is huge for me! I’m proud of the fact that when others made me feel I didn’t belong, I never gave up; never let anyone talk me out of being “me!” Not everyone plays fair, but the good-guy can win and I take that with me always!
No one else knows my passions, my strengths, my worth, but I really scored big when I married a partner who supports me and takes every risk along with me; shares my interests and believes in me and my plans. My family inspires and motivates me to be my best and I’m genuinely grateful that they’ve helped me realize that I am important, because I have value, purpose, and vision – as a woman!
