February 10, 2014 4:01 pm Meet Patricia Pagano- Greenwich Psychotherapist and Mom of 4!
What do you love to do with your children? How old are they? And what is your greatest wish for them?
I have 4 children. Max is turning 11, Leo is 9, Ava is turning 6 and Ben will be 3 in April. I love taking them out for special dates and one-on-one time where we can have fun, really connect and make it all about them. I try to plan a special date on a monthly basis and save the big dates for around their birthdays. My greatest wish for them is to experience life to the fullest, to love and grow to be the best, most authentic version of themselves.
When and where are you the happiest?
I am happiest when I feel connected to my family and friends, when I feel like I am helping someone reach their personal goals, whether it be a client that I am working with in therapy or one of my children or my husband becoming the most they can be. I am also happiest when I am learning something new or exploring a place that is new to me, especially when my husband is enjoying it with me!
If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?
Right now I have a European vacation on the mind. I am waiting for my youngest to be able to enjoy it before we plan this next adventure. I would love to see Italy, Turkey, England, Spain and France through my children’s eyes.
What quality do you most admire in a mother? And what woman has had the biggest impression on you?
The ability to be loving. It is the gold standard that I use to measure my decisions against, especially when I am struggling with which way to go. I often ask myself, “Which action would bring about the most loving outcome?” My own Mom has had a big impact on me. She has a heart of gold, energy of a child and she can be completely selfless at times. She manages to put others first while also taking care of herself – not an easy juggling act for any mother, especially us relative newbies!
What is your favorite book? Movie?
Right now I’m obsessed with this book called, “Seven: An Experimental Mutiny Against Excess” by Jen Hatmaker. The author is witty and is able to help me see how much I have and to really be thankful. It is easy to get caught up in material excesses and to find yourself exhausted from chasing the wrong things. A friend and I decided to start a spiritual book club recently because it is nice to be able to discuss the experience of growing through reading together. My favorite movie is “The Family Stone” because they are real with each other: they laugh, they cry and are willing to ask the deeper questions while still having fun!
What personal achievement are you most proud of?
I am proud of being able to manage my work as a psychotherapist in the Greenwich area and still have time for my husband and my four children. It is not always easy to make time for myself while juggling everyone else’s needs and staying on top of the latest research trends. I try to be balanced in all aspects: spiritually, physically, emotionally, though it doesn’t always balance out perfectly with everyone else’s needs.
What do you feel is your strongest talent?
My ability to prioritize my time in a way that leaves room for a little fun, a little work and a lot of experimenting along the way.
What do you like to do for fun?
I love to invent creative date nights with my husband, to travel, try new restaurants, take my kids into New York City and have new experiences with them, to challenge myself to grow. I love movies and books that challenge me. I love to surround myself with people that make me a better person. I’ve been blessed to be a part of a few local women’s Greenwich groups that have really made an impact on my life, like Walking with Purpose, Moms of Preschoolers (MOPS), and New Moms of Greenwich.
What is your favorite time of the day and why?
I love when everyone in my home is sleeping and I am awake and it is quiet and peaceful. There is nothing to do or be done. It is time for inner reflection and peace.
Where is your favorite place to Party with Moms and what’s your favorite drink?
My favorite place is typically whatever is the newest place. Right now I’m in for the adventure! My favorite drink is a glass of riesling wine or anything mixed with mint or coconut water.