In a riveting podcast episode, Sudha and Saj engage in a heartfelt conversation that spans continents, childhood memories, and profound life experiences. Their discussion is a testament to the power of creativity, connection, and the relentless pursuit of joy, in the face of societal expectations and personal challenges.
Final Thoughts: Embracing Playfulness and Authenticity
Saj’s message is clear: everyone has a unique story to share, and if we are able to be authentic and vulnerable, we can make a significant difference in the world.
For anyone looking to express themselves fully, Saj's advice is to acknowledge fear and bring playfulness to it. His approach not only opens up creativity and innovation but also fosters deeper connections with others.
In a world often focused on negativity and stress, Saj's journey is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of joy, creativity, and authentic connection. His story inspires us to dismantle our fears, embrace our true selves, and spread joy wherever we go. And for those preparing to share their message with the world, a coach is an invaluable partner in ensuring that your voice is heard and your story resonates.
Early Years: Seeds of Creativity and Exploration
Saj's journey begins in Nairobi, Kenya, where his childhood was marked by a profound connection with his father. His father, a man of creativity and playfulness, instilled in Saj a love for art, music, and exploration. From dismantling toys to understand their inner workings to being exposed to diverse cultural experiences like Monty Python and the Beatles, Saj's early years were a blend of artistic and technical curiosity.
However, growing up in an East African Asian community, Saj faced a dichotomy. On one hand, his environment emphasised status and academic achievements, while on the other, his heart yearned for artistic expression. This inner conflict set the stage for Saj, as he navigated the complexities of cultural expectations and personal passions.
The Professional Journey: From Pharmacy to Law
Saj's professional journey began in pharmacy, following in his father's footsteps. His father, who owned a pharmacy in Kenya, was deeply committed to patient care, offering advice that extended beyond mere prescriptions. This humanistic approach to healthcare left a lasting impression on Saj.
However, as Saj progressed in his pharmacy career, particularly during his time with Boots, the chemist, he found himself increasingly disconnected from the joy of patient interaction, prompting Saj to seek fulfillment elsewhere.
A pivotal moment came when a barrister, noticing Saj's badge that read "pharmacist manager," quipped, "Overqualified sales assistant?" This comment, though seemingly innocuous, resonated deeply with Saj, catalysing his decision to transition into law.
He retrained as a lawyer and joined AstraZeneca, where he found a renewed sense of purpose. Here, he could integrate his legal expertise with a mission to create life-saving medicines, reconnecting him to the original inspiration from his father.
Embracing Vulnerability and Authenticity
A significant turning point in Saj's life came with the loss of his father in 2013. This personal tragedy, coupled with a friend's diagnosis of young onset Parkinson's, led Saj to reevaluate his approach to life and work. He embarked on a personal project to explore the triggers of joy in patients and their loved ones.
A profound realisation was the power of vulnerability and authentic connection which Saj observed when individuals share their struggles openly. His insight is that this creates a natural sense of freedom, emphasising the importance of sharing and connection in overcoming life's challenges.
The Role of Coaching in Effective Communication
When preparing for a significant speech or presentation, such as a TEDx talk, Saj highlights the crucial role of having a coach. Despite his confidence and experience in public speaking, Saj discovered that a coach's guidance was invaluable in refining his message and delivery. Initially, Saj's TEDx talk was a sprawling 30-minute narrative. With his coach's help, he condensed it into a compelling, succinct presentation that resonated deeply with his audience.
A coach provides an external perspective, offering constructive feedback that helps speakers focus on what truly matters. They assist in distilling complex ideas into clear, impactful messages, ensuring that the speaker's authenticity and passion shine through. For Saj, this coaching process was instrumental in transforming his talk into one of the most-watched TEDx talks of 2022, with over 2.5 million views.
The Birth of Joynetix and TEDx Success
Driven by his experiences, Saj authored "Joynetix," a book that explores the intersection of joy, wellness, and the mind-body connection. The book is a culmination of his research and personal discoveries, offering practical tools to interrupt negative experiences and cultivate joy.
In 2022, Saj's TEDx talk, "Three Keys to Unlock a Dash of Joy," resonated with millions, becoming the fourth most-watched TEDx talk of the year. This achievement underscored the universal appeal of his message. The feedback from the talk revealed that Saj's vulnerability and authenticity had a profound impact on viewers, many of whom shared their own stories of finding joy amid adversity.
Overcoming Vulnerability Through Joy and Authenticity
Saj's journey of exploration and innovation continues with the co-founding of Momentus Technologies, a startup aimed at addressing stress and anxiety in young people. By developing a device that interrupts acute stress cycles, Saj hopes to prevent chronic stress and its associated health issues. This venture is a testament to his commitment to using technology for wellness, blending his expertise in digital health with his passion for inspiring joy.
For Saj, overcoming vulnerability is deeply intertwined with embracing joy and authenticity. He advises anyone preparing for a significant speech or facing personal challenges to lean into their vulnerabilities. By acknowledging fears and being true to oneself, individuals can connect more deeply with others and share their unique stories.
