Meet Rayna

P.S. Dear World,

If you’re curious about who I am at heart, here’s a little story I wrote to redefine myself. I started envisioning Atypical 9to5 shortly after I began applying for jobs - a process that left me grappling with self-doubt. The typical job application process wasn’t built for autistic people, and it made me question my own strengths and abilities. It was a challenging time, but a dear friend offered advice that changed everything: “Write a new story for yourself,” she said, “a story based on your strengths and the way those who love you see you.”

Here’s that story, in my own words.

Dear World

It’s time for a new story. Not a story of who I’m not or who I should be, but a story built on my qualities, my strengths, and the way the people who love me see me (on a good day, anyway).

I am a good and caring person—a dedicated daughter, mother, wife, and friend who shows up, listens, and genuinely cares. I am brave, unique, and unapologetically myself. I embrace my quirks and accept my limitations, knowing they don’t define me. Instead, they’re just part of the full picture.

I’m a lifelong learner, driven by a thirst for knowledge that fuels everything I do. Whether it’s diving into new technologies or honing skills that matter, I find joy in learning for the sake of growth. I apply what I learn not just to satisfy my own curiosity, but to make life a bit better for the people around me.

I am a deep thinker, and pause is very important to me. I take the time to reflect, analyze, and carefully consider both my words and the situations I encounter before moving forward (well, unless ADHD decides otherwise…). This thoughtful, intentional approach brings clarity and depth to everything I do.

I’m empathetic and great at seeing patterns. I can sense what others need, and I’m usually pretty good at finding the right words (though sometimes, a well-timed nod says it all). I thrive on making people feel seen and understood, whether that means sharing a laugh, a cup of tea, or simply a good, solid silence together.

And yes, I’m someone who makes things happen. “Give up” is not part of my vocabulary. I’m enterprising, a go-getter - the type who spots solutions when others are still figuring out what went wrong. I love digging into ideas, solving problems, and exploring how things could be improved. Analytical at heart, I find joy in bringing ideas to life.

I’ve built a career on these strengths: solving problems, adapting to challenges, and a knack for navigating the unknown. I know how to connect with people, build meaningful relationships, and leverage these connections to make a difference. I’m driven by purpose - by a sense that what I do can leave a mark and, ideally, help others along the way.

But work isn’t all of me. I’m persistent and tenacious in all areas of life. I adore animals (my dog, Max, and my cat, Gotin, are a big part of my world), and I’m always up for trying new things. I’ve taken up running, learned Krav Maga, and explored creative hobbies like diamond painting and knitting. Whether I’m knitting a sweater or diving into AI through a Coursera course, I thrive on creativity and love taking on new challenges. Life’s short, and there are too many interesting things out there to leave unexplored.

Above all, I am a mom, a wife, a friend - a person who loves deeply. My love for my family and friends drives me to do better and to be better every day. I’m curious, funny, honest, and creative. As much as I love my routines, I take on life with flexibility and resilience, ready to face whatever comes next.

This is my story - a story of growth, empathy, resilience, and endless curiosity. I am proud of who I am and excited for whatever the journey brings next.

Yours truly,
Rayna