Meet Riji Raja

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Riji Raja. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Riji, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
My husband & I moved to LA for acting in 2016 but with the high cost of living in SoCal, our living situation quickly fell apart, forcing us to live in our car for 2yrs. During those two years, we had to navigate through depression and anxiety on our own as we couldn’t afford a therapist of a life coach. And one thing that was affected even more was our productivity, especially while being actors. Hence, we would declare customized-to-our-situation affirmations and follow through with actions that would help boost our productivity while uplifting us mentally and emotionally. This positive mindset is also how we were able to transition out of homelessness, and ever since then, I had always wanted to use my story to make a difference for the underserved and disadvantaged young adults facing homelessness and mental health issues. In 2020, after we were laid off due to COVID-19, I founded Affirmation Darling, a social impact stationery & wellness brand.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
As the co-founder of Affirmation Darling, I find immense excitement and fulfillment in our journey. What sets our wellness stationery brand apart is the powerful impact it has on individuals and communities.

Drawing from my personal experience of overcoming homelessness, I’ve infused Affirmation Darling with the transformative power of positive affirmations. The heart of our brand lies in the Buy One Give One model, where every purchase contributes to supporting underserved young adults facing homelessness and other challenges.

Hosting workshops at shelters and collaborating with nonprofits allows us to actively make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. Affirmation Darling isn’t just about stationery; it’s a movement, a source of hope, and a catalyst for mindset transformation. Through storytelling and advocacy, we strive to inspire positivity, resilience, and the courage to dream big in the face of adversity.

Recently, Affirmation Darling received noteworthy recognition, being featured on ABC’s ‘Localish’ and recognized as a Hometown Hustler on ‘On Air with Ryan Seacrest’ in January 2024. These experiences have not only amplified our brand’s visibility but also highlighted the genuine passion and dedication behind our mission.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Reflecting on my journey, three key qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge have been instrumental in shaping the path of Affirmation Darling.

Firstly, resilience has been crucial. The ability to bounce back from setbacks and navigate challenges has been pivotal in overcoming obstacles. My advice to those starting their journey is to cultivate resilience by embracing failures as learning opportunities and staying focused on long-term goals.

Secondly, effective storytelling has played a significant role. Sharing my personal experience and the mission of Affirmation Darling has connected us with a broader audience. For those early in their journey, I recommend honing the skill of storytelling to authentically convey their vision, values, and the impact they seek to make.

Lastly, community collaboration has been a driving force. Partnering with shelters, nonprofits, and being recognized on major platforms has expanded our reach. Early on, individuals should actively seek collaborations, build a supportive network, and leverage collective efforts to amplify their impact.

Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When faced with overwhelming moments, I prioritize self-care and activate my parasympathetic nervous system by embracing a “parasympathetic day.” As a person of faith, spending time in prayer is a crucial component of this strategy. I find solace and strength in connecting with God, seeking guidance and peace in moments of stress.

In addition to God time, immersing myself in a tranquil environment allows me to recharge and find balance. Nourishing my body with nutritious food, staying hydrated, and ensuring adequate sleep contribute to overall well-being.

Setting boundaries is another vital aspect, as I communicate the need for space and time to recharge with those around me. Whether it’s a brief pause during a hectic day or a dedicated “parasympathetic day,” establishing these boundaries fosters a healthier balance.

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