Jenifer Lewis discussed her experience with bipolar disorder and how it had led her on a career path. She talked about the intense emotions and challenges that accompanied this journey but also highlighted how she dealt with them effectively, eventually finding her place in her chosen field.
Title: Bridging divides: Jenifer Lewis's journey from a struggle to a leaderIn an interview with Michelle Obama on October 21, 2025, Jenifer Lewis opened the door for discussion about her career choices. She had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and struggled with its effects throughout her life. But in one of her most personal conversations, she revealed that it not only gave her a unique perspective but also an opportunity to pursue her passion.
Introduction: The Battle with Bipolar Disorder
Jenifer Lewis’s story is deeply personal. After being diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 1983, she spent countless hours working through the lows of her mental health, whether it was feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or more frequently, struggling with addiction to her medication. Despite all these struggles, Jenifer remained dedicated to her career as an actor and writer. By the time she became a leader, the impact of her diagnosis on her life had been profound.
Acting as a Leader: A Journey from Struggle to Victory
In an interview with Craig Robinson, another actor and producer, Jenifer shared how her bipolar disorder provided her with the "delusion" to pursue her career. “I think I always wanted to be an actor but my mental health kept me waiting,” she said. “Eventually, it got to the point where I couldn’t wait anymore to show up in front of a big screen.”
As she continued working on shows like *The Good Place* and *Criminal Minds*, Jenifer discovered that being a leader wasn’t just about getting your message out; it was also about connecting with others. “Leadership is something you see, but maybe not feel,” she said. “It’s about feeling part of something bigger.”
Bridging the Divide: The Power of Leadership
In addition to her career success, Jenifer learned that leadership wasn’t just about one person; it was about a connection with others. “You have to know when you’re being a leader, you’re connecting people who are going through something they can relate to,” she explained. “It’s not just about winning the next big thing; it’s about feeling empowered and making an impact.”
The Road Less Traveled: Resilience in the Face of Challenges
Despite her struggles, Jenifer became a leader because she wasn’t afraid to take on the challenges that others had once faced. She saw leadership as a stepping stone to gaining wisdom and perspective. “Being a leader taught me how to navigate through tough times,” she said. “It’s about being open, having empathy, and knowing when you need to show up.”
Conclusion: inspires Success
Jenifer Lewis’s story is a powerful reminder that resilience isn’t limited by mental health. It shows that even in the face of personal struggles, there are opportunities for growth, connection, and leadership. By embracing her journey and facing her challenges head-on, Jenifer became not just a leader but a beacon of hope for those who have faced similar journeys.
In her own words: “Leadership isn’t just about what you do; it’s about how you see the world around you and how you shape the people in your life. It’s about being part of something bigger than yourself.”
Final Thoughts
Jenifer Lewis’s story is a testament to how mental health can become a filter, but ultimately, it also becomes an opportunity for growth. By choosing to lead despite struggles, she created paths for others who may have felt the same way. leadership isn’t just about winning; it’s about becoming a force for change and making an impact on people’s lives.
Image credit: Jenifer Lewis / [Source]
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