We had the good fortune of connecting with Raziel Cariaga and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Raziel, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
My work life balance has changed a lot throughout the years, and that came with learning that balance is very important, especially when it comes to mental health.

Growing up, I didn’t like getting in trouble, it can make anyone feel terrible. I did everything that was expected of me to avoid disappointing anyone, in doing so, I became high achieving, but also a people pleaser. As a recovering people pleaser, I’ve seen how it can become your downfall. You become such a giver and find yourself in situations where you end up feeling depleted from fulfilling everyone’s expectations and put yourself last. Imagine what this does to your mental health.

In every job I have had, I found myself overextending myself to people please, and a lot of the times it meant saying yes even though I wanted to say no. You disrespect yourself every time you do that. I’ve found myself staying later than others to finish tasks others could have done, I’ve said yes to anyone who needed a day covered to the point I’ve worked 10 days in a row, I’ve done friends and family’s hair on what should be my days off, or staying with companies longer than I should have. I was the reliable person and it came with a price; my mental health. Sometimes being the reliable person gets you taken advantage of, takers will keep on taking, and sometimes those same people won’t have your back when you’re in need.

After being this way for years and years, it led me to a decline of my mental health that introduced me to my version of rock bottom. I was so used to putting work and others before me, that I forgot that I too, need fulfilling. When I came to the realization of that, the first thing I did at my last job was request to have a third day off per week at work, stopped working on my days off or after work, and started devoting more time to me and what I needed and desired. 3 years later as a business owner, I still implement 3 days off and give myself mental health days when needed. I have learned that if my cup isn’t filled, I cannot help fill the cups of others.

Time is one of the most precious things in life, something you cannot get back, so spend it loving and fulfilling yourself, so you can love and fulfill others. We are meant to do more than work and pay bills in this life.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As an artist/creative, I mostly want to encourage others to follow their heart to the things they truly desire in life. We have this one shot at life, make sure to design it the way that makes you happiest, even if it means letting down the expectations of others.

Living the life you desire will mean going against society’s standards and expectations, going through challenges and obstacles, and constantly remembering that this is your life, and you get to design it with the decisions you make. It may not be easy, but it is WORTH IT.

I’ve learned that everything amazing is on the other side of fear, it all just depends on your willingness to jump and take action. You will never find out until you try. Doing all of this has led me to have a job and business I am passionate about.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Personally, if I had to show anyone visiting a good time, I’m glad it would be in San Diego, there’s so much variety!

If I had to plan a week itinerary, the list would include endless choices of food and dessert, a trip to multiple beaches, and most likely different hikes to do.

Some key areas for me to hit are Little Italy, Convoy, and North Park for food, Imperial Beach, Coronado Beach, and Mission Beach for beaches, and Cowles Mountain, Annie’s Canyon, Torrey Pines, and Mount Woodson for hikes.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost I want to give a shoutout to Me. I wouldn’t be where I am today without my strength, determination and resilience.

I also want to give a shoutout to everyone I have encountered in this human experience, every person has their role in our lives, whether it be a lesson or a blessing. Every experience has led me to become the person I have come to love today.

Most importantly I want to give a shoutout to my family, friends and clients that show nothing but love and support to me and my business, because of them, I thrive in multiple areas of my life and I am forever grateful.

Instagram: @razcariaga

Image Credits
Laura Costa

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