We recently connected with Diana Mendoza and have shared our conversation below.
Diana, so many exciting things to discuss, we can’t wait. Thanks for joining us and we appreciate you sharing your wisdom with our readers. So, maybe we can start by discussing optimism and where your optimism comes from?
My journey towards optimism has been sculpted by life’s formidable challenges. As a two-time breast cancer survivor, I’ve stood at the crossroads where despair meets hope, choosing the latter each time. This experience profoundly shifted my perspective, teaching me the invaluable lesson that every moment is a precious gift.
But, my unwavering optimism isn’t just a product of these trials. It’s deeply ingrained in who I am. My life has been a testament to the belief that a positive attitude, coupled with faith and relentless effort, can move mountains.
Faith has been my compass, guiding me through life’s storms with a conviction that even the darkest night will see dawn. I’ve always believed that with a heart full of hope and hands ready to work, the impossible becomes possible.
My aspiration is to leave behind a legacy that transcends my personal battles. I want to be remembered as someone who, despite the weight of challenges, stood tall – all five feet of me – radiating courage and optimism. Each day, I choose to show up to life, not just for myself, but as a beacon of hope for others.
In essence, my optimism is a mosaic of my experiences, faith, and an innate zest for life. It’s a conscious choice to view the world through a lens of possibility and to meet each day with a heart full of gratitude and a inner light that refuses to be dimmed.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Starting Never Alone Candles wasn’t an initial intention of mine. After my second cancer diagnosis, I developed a nightly ritual: I’d pen a prayer, place it beneath a candle, and light it—trusting that the universe was listening. That small flame brought solace during the heaviest times, anchoring me to hope and illuminating my belief in better days.
The spark for the candle company ignited in 2020, during the early days of the pandemic. On a particularly daunting day, awaiting a CT scan to confirm my remission status, lighting my candle fortified my courage. In that glowing warmth, I recognized a higher calling: to craft candles that shine light on others’ lives, reminding them of their strength and essence. Ensuring the candles are not only emotionally uplifting but also health-conscious, I committed to using only natural ingredients, devoid of any harmful chemicals.
Today, every Never Alone Candle® is hand-poured and packed by me, promising unparalleled, natural quality. No matter how expansive the brand becomes, human touch will always be its core. I genuinely believe that after the hurdles and chaos of a day, everyone deserves a serene self-care ritual—a small haven of comfort. And with Never Alone Candles, I hope to remind everyone that even in darkness, their light can be reignited, and they’re never truly alone.
This spring, Never Alone Candles® is excited to introduce the three new scents in the ‘Reach for the Stars’ collection. Each aroma is designed to inspire and uplift your space during the spring and summer months. Alongside this, our beloved ‘Calm’ candle continues to be a fan favorite, consistently selling out due to its soothing and tranquil essence.
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?
Before Never Alone Candles, I spent 20 years in the media industry, a journey that seems worlds apart from where I am now. Reflecting on this wild ride of entrepreneurship, three big things really shaped my path. First, having the audacity to say ‘yes’ to an idea that was totally out of left field. It’s about embracing the unexpected and running with it. Secondly, the extensive time I invested in research and development proved invaluable. Understanding the intricacies of candle making, from selecting the right waxes and scents to the nuances of packaging, was essential in creating a product that resonated with my values and customers’ needs. And the third thing? Being totally okay with messing up and starting from scratch. For those embarking on their own journey, here is my advice: say YES to your ideas, no matter how unconventional they may seem. Immerse yourself thoroughly in the ideation; understanding every facet is crucial. And importantly, don’t let setbacks derail you. These are not just hiccups, but invaluable learning opportunities that forge a stronger, and a more resilient YOU.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When the weight of running a business feels overwhelming, I’ve found that leaning on my support network is invaluable. This includes my family, a close-knit circle of friends, and a community of fellow small business owners. Sharing my challenges with them often brings new perspectives and insights that I might not have considered on my own. It’s amazing how a simple conversation can shed light on a problem and offer a fresh angle.
In moments of extreme stress, prayer and meditation become my anchors. They help center me and serve as a reminder that I can’t control everything. This practice brings a sense of peace and clarity, especially when business challenges, like the current issue of visibility, seem daunting.
My advice to anyone feeling overwhelmed is to cultivate a reliable support system and not be afraid to seek their help. Also, recognize the power of taking a break. Remember, it’s okay to acknowledge that you don’t have all the answers and to take time for yourself.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://neveralonecandles.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neveralonecandles
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neveralonecandles
