Breaking the Habit of Being Broken: Why You Must Stop Dimming Your Light

 

What's up, wonderful, amazing, sweet, and lovely people? It's a beautiful day today, and I'm super excited to be back with another exciting post here on Maryam's Joyful Life. I really hope you share this one with your friends and family because I truly believe this message can break millions of people free from mental and relationship bondage.

Today, we are talking about a trap so many of us fall into as we heal: staying loyal to being broken just because people expect you to remain that way.

The Pull of the Past

Have you ever noticed that as you make up your mind to change your life—and things actually are changing and getting better—there is a strange resistance? You might be doing fantastic, but whenever you are around certain people or even just think about them, you are immediately transported back to when you were struggling.

It feels like an invisible rope pulling you back to the exact place you fought so hard to break free from.

These are usually the people who saw you in your most devastating situations. They witnessed your pain, your heartbreak, and your suffering. Over time, they got used to seeing you that way. Now that you are healing, walking in your purpose, and experiencing breakthrough, their expectations—sometimes conscious, sometimes completely unconscious—make you feel like you need to downplay your growth. You feel pressured to slip back into that old pattern just to make them feel comfortable communicating with you.

You Owe No Loyalty to Your Pain

Hear me clearly on this: You have absolutely no reason to stay loyal to your past brokenness.

You do not have to put on the heavy cloak of shame, pain, or struggle just to make others feel secure around the new you. Changing your life and becoming a better, more whole person is one of the absolute best things you can do for the world.

There are far too many people bound by the past, living their entire lives trying to please others. They keep doing the very things that are ruining their lives and keeping them from fulfilling their destiny simply because it's familiar.

That should not be you. Be the example of the person who shatters that trend. The people who truly change the world and make it better are the ones who decide to break the old programming. They choose a different path. They find a way out of no way.

Your Permission to Shine

If you have been waiting for a sign that it is okay to fully step into your new life, this is it. Today, you have my permission, you have God's permission, and you have the universe's permission to:

• Be better and be different.

• Fully embrace the new you.

• Be wonderful and amazing.

• Enjoy the blessings currently pouring into your life.

• Unapologetically celebrate your victories, your breakthroughs, and your changes.

You survived something big. Now, keep rising. Do not let people who are too scared to do something new keep you from embracing your new life. You are exactly the kind of person who changes the world. Embrace it!

You are doing great, and because you choose to stand tall, millions of people are going to rise up alongside you. Consider this your ultimate confirmation: Do not dim your light to make people who have turned their lights off feel comfortable. It is your light that illuminates the path for us all.

Have an amazing day, keep shining your beautiful light, and whatever you do, don't let anyone steal your joy!

Ready to take the next step in your personal growth, or looking to plan a luxury getaway to celebrate your new season? Reach out to me anytime at 470-765-2745!

Walking Away From Rejection: Protecting Your Worth and Trusting God’s Plan

 What’s up, wonderful, amazing, sweet, and lovely people? How are you all doing today? I hope you are having an amazing day, and whatever you do, don’t let anybody steal your joy!

Welcome back to Maryam's Joyful Life. I decided to sit down right here—no fancy studio setup, no makeup, just raw and authentic mom life—to talk about something so many of us face: walking away from rejection and trusting that God is working behind the scenes.

The Sting of Working Hard and Coming Up Short

As many of you know, alongside my travel business, I am a licensed Realtor here in Texas with Keller Williams in the Permian Basin. I’ve been putting in the work since June, and these past 90 days have brought close calls, heartbreak, and real rejection.

Recently, I had a situation where I gave everything. I went above and beyond, sacrificing weekend time with my sweet husband and kids to do research, answer questions, and show up. But in the end, they didn't sign my buyer representation agreement—they took my hard work and went with someone else.

When the listing agent followed up, people asked me, "Why didn't you ask them why they didn't pick you?"

My answer was simple: I didn't ask, and I won't chase.

My actions proved my commitment. If people see your dedication and still choose to walk away, let them go. You are far too valuable to beg anyone to see your worth or lower yourself to demand an explanation.

Watch the video:

God’s Protection in Disguise

Rejection hurts—it can feel heavy and heartbreaking in the moment. But every single time something hasn't worked out in my life, hindsight revealed that God was saving me from stress, toxic environments, or problems I couldn't see.

Why cry over a shack when God is preparing a mansion for you?

Scripture tells us that all things work together for good to those who love the Lord. That means:

• Closed doors are divine protection: He is guarding your peace and your future.

• Seed time is never wasted: The effort, love, and diligence you sow will produce a harvest, even if it doesn't come from where you initially expected.

• You are not a quitter: Disappointment may sting, but it makes the eventual breakthrough and testimony that much sweeter.

Business Wisdom and Healthy Boundaries

Moving forward, I am stepping into a new strategy. Experience is the best teacher, and I’ve learned that setting clear boundaries isn't selfish—it's wise.

From now on, I don't work for free. Before doing deep research or answering detailed property questions, clients must sign a buyer representation agreement. If someone already has an agent, I'll kindly direct them back to their representative. Setting boundaries protects your time, your energy, and your family.

Whether in business or personal relationships, stop chasing people who treat you like you're disposable. Fall in love with yourself again. Chase your growth, trust God's timing, and know that what is truly meant for you will never pass you by.

Keep moving forward, hold your head high, and never let anyone steal your joy!

Looking for trusted real estate representation across the Permian Basin,call 678-972-3417 or ready to book your next dream vacation? Reach out to me directly at 470-765-2745!

Looking Ahead: How to Build a Vision That Transforms Your Reality

 

What’s up, wonderful, amazing, sweet, and lovely people? How are you all doing today? I hope you are having an amazing day, and I pray that nothing steals your joy! Welcome back to Maryam's Joyful Life. It is a gorgeous day today, and I am so excited to dive into this topic with you.

Today, let's talk about looking ahead, building a clear vision, and preparing yourself for something truly good.

The Magnetic Power of What You Picture

When you intentionally look ahead and begin picturing the impact you want to make, the blessings you want to receive, and the life you want to lead, your steps naturally start aligning with that reality.

When you become truly enamored with where you are going, something incredible happens: your environment begins to clear out.

The habits, mindsets, and even people that are no longer aligned with that elevated vision will naturally begin to fall away. Don't fight that release! It simply makes room for the right connections, opportunities, and blessings to flow in.

Feel It Before You See It

I want to challenge you today to build a vision that genuinely excites you and gets your heart racing.

• Engage your senses: If you're envisioning a stunning dress or outfit, don't obsess over the price tag right now. Picture yourself wearing it. Feel how comfortable, radiant, proud, and joyful you feel knowing it fits you like it was tailor-made for your frame. Embody that feeling right now.

• Redefine your relationships: Picture yourself surrounded by people who truly honor and respect you. Seek partnerships where love is effortless, mutual, and supportive—a true two-way street where you champion each other’s dreams, not a dynamic that feels like draining labor.

• Claim freedom and abundance: Picture financial peace, walking into spaces with confidence, and living unburdened by past limitations.

As you consistently visualize yourself living your best life, your outer world begins to mold itself to match the blueprint in your mind.

Refuse Mediocrity and Own Your Worth

You are worthy. You are capable. You are powerful.

From this moment forward, stop defining yourself by your current circumstances. Lift your eyes above where you are standing today. Picture yourself excelling, thriving, and moving through life surrounded by genuine love and high standards.

Refuse to tolerate mediocrity in your thinking or in your environment. Build a vision so clear and compelling that your future has no choice but to arrive.

Keep looking ahead, keep your standards high, and never let anyone steal your joy!

Ready to turn your vision into reality, whether finding your dream home?Call 678-972-3417, or booking a luxury escape? Call or text me at 470-765-2745!

Step Into Your Power: Reject the Lies and Reclaim Your Worth

 

What's up, wonderful, amazing, sweet, and lovely people? How are you all doing today? I hope you are having an incredible day, and I pray nobody steals your joy! Welcome back to Maryam's Joyful Life. It is a gorgeous day today, and I am so excited to be here with you because beautiful, extraordinary things are unfolding.

Today, I want to call you back to your power.

Rejecting the Lie of "Worthless"

Perhaps right now you are feeling low, pitiful, or defeated. Maybe you are surrounded by people or circumstances that whisper—or outright tell you—that you are worthless. When negative energy, harsh words, and emotional storms surround you daily, it can feel like you are being forced to accept that narrative as truth.

Reject it immediately.

You are not worthless. You have immense, immeasurable value. The God who created you crafted a living masterpiece, and His spirit resides within you. You have been given the divine authority to choose an abundant, joyful life, regardless of what you have experienced up to the exact moment you found this post.

There is nothing small about you. You are extraordinary, and your story is still being written.

Rewrite the Narrative With Your Words

Transforming your life doesn't always start with a massive leap—it begins with one simple decision to change your spoken narrative:

• When they call you worthless, declare that you are blessed.

• When circumstances call you forgotten, declare that you are chosen.

• When fear says you are weak, declare that you are called by God and deeply loved.

No weapon formed against you will prosper. The desires for peace, purpose, and good things planted in your heart are valid, and God's plan for your life is not about to stop now.

Cut off the Venom and Walk in Royalty

Give yourself a much-needed break from the people who constantly bring up your past mistakes, rehash your failures, or pour the venom of negativity into your space. You have zero obligation to tolerate that toxicity any longer.

Break away from those voices. Surround yourself with truth-tellers who speak life over you—people who recognize and call out the royalty on the inside of you. You are a child of the Most High, meant to leave an undeniable mark on this world.

Remember who you are today: there is nothing ordinary about you. You are extraordinary.

Walk tall, speak life, and never let anyone steal your joy!

Ready to connect, elevate your journey, or take the next bold step in your life? Reach out anytime at 470-765-2745!

Homemadew Olive Garden-Style Italian Breadsticks: Soft, Fluffy, and Buttery

Have you ever enjoyed those soft, warm, buttery Italian breadsticks at Olive Garden and wished you could make them at home? Well, now you can! Today, I’m sharing a homemade Olive Garden-style Italian breadstick recipe that’s soft, fluffy, and brushed with delicious garlic butter.

These breadsticks are perfect for serving alongside spaghetti, chicken Parmesan, lasagna, Alfredo pasta, or your favorite Italian meal. They’re also delicious on their own with marinara sauce for dipping!

The best part is that you can make them with simple ingredients you may already have in your kitchen.

Watch the video:

Ingredients for Homemade Italian Breadsticks

For the breadsticks:

• 1½ cups warm water
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups bread flour, plus a little extra if needed

For the garlic butter topping:

• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)

How to Make Olive Garden-Style Italian Breadsticks

Step 1: Activate the yeast.

Add the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast to a large mixing bowl. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. Make sure the water is warm, not hot.

Step 2: Make the dough.

Add the olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the bread flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. Start with four cups and add extra flour only if necessary.

Step 3: Knead the dough.

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be soft and slightly tacky.

Step 4: Let the dough rise.

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for about one hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the breadsticks.

Gently punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a breadstick about 6–8 inches long. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Let them rise again.

Cover the shaped breadsticks and let them rest for another 20–30 minutes until puffy. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 425°F.

Step 7: Prepare the garlic butter.

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and optional Italian seasoning. Mix well and set aside.

Step 8: Bake the breadsticks.

Bake at 425°F for 12–15 minutes, or until lightly golden on top. Avoid overbaking if you want that soft, fluffy texture.

Step 9: Brush with garlic butter.

As soon as the breadsticks come out of the oven, generously brush them with the garlic butter. For even more flavor, brush them a second time after five minutes.

My Secret to Soft, Buttery Breadsticks

The secret to delicious homemade breadsticks is keeping the dough soft, allowing it enough time to rise, and avoiding overbaking. Brushing the breadsticks with garlic butter while they’re still hot helps give them that wonderful buttery flavor.

If you want to keep them extra soft, loosely cover them with foil for 5–10 minutes after baking.

What to Serve with Italian Breadsticks

These homemade breadsticks pair beautifully with spaghetti and meatballs, chicken Parmesan, lasagna, creamy Alfredo pasta, or a warm bowl of tomato soup. You can also serve them with marinara or Alfredo sauce for dipping.

Final Thoughts

Making homemade Italian breadsticks is a wonderful way to bring a little restaurant-style goodness into your kitchen. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, entertaining guests, or simply craving warm bread fresh from the oven, this recipe is worth trying.

Give these homemade Olive Garden-style Italian breadsticks a try, and enjoy every soft, buttery, garlic-filled bite!

Thank you for stopping by Maryamsjoyfullife Blog. Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious homemade breadsticks!

Checking My Character: Choosing Patience and Kindness When Frustration Rises

 

What’s up, wonderful, amazing, sweet, and lovely people? How are you all doing today? I hope you’re having an amazing day, and whatever you do, don’t let anybody steal your joy! Welcome back to Maryam’s Joyful Life. It is a beautiful day, and I am super excited to be here with you today for a little honest heart-to-heart.

Today, I want to share a moment of personal reflection about my character, patience, and how easy it is to let frustration get the best of us if we aren't watchful.

The Pre-K Pickup Routine

If you are a parent, you know the drill with school drop-offs and dismissals. At my kids' school, I pick them up through the Pre-K dismissal lane during the late pickup window. The rule is simple: you have to be in line by 3:30 PM. If you aren't there by then, the office calls your phone at 3:45 PM, and you have to park, walk inside, and sign all the paperwork to sign them out.

I understand the system and respect the rules. So far, I’ve only been late once—and that was because I got delayed while getting new tires installed on my truck. It took longer than expected, and even though I rushed over, it hit 3:45 PM, so I parked, went inside, signed them out, and took my babies home. No problem.

Because I don't like being inconvenienced or having to park and sign out, I make a conscious effort to arrive early every single day. Usually, the staff has the kids walking out right around 3:27 PM, and I'm sitting right there waiting for them to hop in.

The Moment the Fire Rose

The other day, I drove the car over early, expecting everything to run like clockwork.

• 3:27 PM came and went—no kids.

• 3:28 PM, the staff walked inside.

• 3:29 PM rolled around, and people were just looking at me.

• By 3:31 PM, nothing was moving.

Suddenly, a wave of intense frustration washed over me. In my mind, I started calculating: If I had been late by even one minute, I’d be forced to go inside, do paperwork, and jump through hoops. But when I show up early, I’m left sitting here waiting!

Before I knew it, I hopped out of the car, marched straight up to the entrance door, knocked, and blurted out, "Where are my kids?"

Right as I knocked and the door opened, the staff was already leading the kids out. But inside, I felt like I was breathing smoke and fire. I was ready to argue. My face probably looked like pure thunder.

Looking in the Mirror: Choosing Grace Over Rage

I got back into the car with the kids, buckled everyone in, and took a deep breath. As the adrenaline cooled down, I looked in the mirror and had an honest conversation with myself:

Could I have been more patient? Just a little bit more patient to see what was happening instead of charging up to the door demandingly?

The truth was: Yes, I could have.

Two or three minutes of delay wasn't going to ruin my life, but charging up with anger could have easily ruined someone else's entire workday. Those teachers and staff members are working hard, managing countless children, and doing their best.

Our reactions have power. In any given moment, the energy we bring can either make someone’s day better or make it significantly worse.

Moving Forward With Intention

Starting today, I’m holding myself to a higher standard of grace:

1. Give grace for delays: If dismissal is running behind, pause, breathe, and extend the benefit of the doubt.

2. Watch the tone: If I ever need to step up to the door to ask a question, I will do it with calm words, a warm smile, and patience.

3. Guard your character: Never let an inconvenience turn you into someone you don't want to be.

Let’s choose kindness, even in uncomfortable and frustrating situations. Character isn't proven when everything goes smoothly—it’s proven in how we respond when things get delayed.

Have an amazing day, keep walking in love, and never let anyone steal your joy!

Need guidance on buying or selling a home in the Permian Basin, or ready to book your next dream vacation? Call or text me at 470-765-2745!

 Your Relationship With God Is Your Own

What's up, wonderful, amazing, sweet, and lovely people! How are you all doing today? I hope you're having an amazing day, and I hope you still choose your joy. Welcome to MaryamsJoyfulLife!

Today, I want to talk about something that really sparked my thoughts. Someone asked me why they should take their relationship with God seriously when they see people like me who have a nose ring.

My response is simple: your relationship with God has nothing to do with me.

If you want to get closer to God and have a relationship with Him, that decision belongs to you. You are a grown adult, and you get to make your own decisions and live with the consequences of those decisions.

We have to stop outsourcing our happiness, peace, and decisions to other people. Nobody is obligated to change themselves to make you happy. You cannot control how other people act, but you can control yourself.

I have tasted and seen that the Lord is good. That is why I will continue praying, studying, meditating, seeking God, and keeping my heart right.

Your faith should not depend on whether another person looks, acts, or lives the way you think a Christian should. Sometimes God can even use someone you don't expect to teach you something you need to hear.

Don't allow your feelings toward another person to cause you to miss what God is trying to show you.

As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.

God sees your heart. He knows you completely. Your relationship with Him is personal, and you have to choose to seek Him for yourself.

Don't take the opinion of man as the final say. With God, all things are possible.

Watch full video here: 

Don't let anyone steal your joy!

 Your Relationship With God Is Your Own

What's up, wonderful, amazing, sweet, and lovely people! How are you all doing today? I hope you're having an amazing day, and I hope you still choose your joy. Welcome to MaryamsJoyfulLife!

Today, I want to talk about something that really sparked my thoughts. Someone asked me why they should take their relationship with God seriously when they see people like me who have a nose ring.

My response is simple: your relationship with God has nothing to do with me.

If you want to get closer to God and have a relationship with Him, that decision belongs to you. You are a grown adult, and you get to make your own decisions and live with the consequences of those decisions.

We have to stop outsourcing our happiness, peace, and decisions to other people. Nobody is obligated to change themselves to make you happy. You cannot control how other people act, but you can control yourself.

I have tasted and seen that the Lord is good. That is why I will continue praying, studying, meditating, seeking God, and keeping my heart right.

Your faith should not depend on whether another person looks, acts, or lives the way you think a Christian should. Sometimes God can even use someone you don't expect to teach you something you need to hear.

Don't allow your feelings toward another person to cause you to miss what God is trying to show you.

As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.

God sees your heart. He knows you completely. Your relationship with Him is personal, and you have to choose to seek Him for yourself.

Don't take the opinion of man as the final say. With God, all things are possible.

Watch the full video here:

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 Starting From the Ground Up: Keep Going and Let God Guide You

What's up, wonderful, amazing, sweet, and lovely people! How are you all doing today? I hope you're having an amazing day, and I hope you still choose your joy.

Today, I want to talk about what it feels like to start from scratch—to start from the ground up.

I'm currently building my real estate business from the ground up as a Texas Realtor. And let me tell you, it's not always fun. It's exciting to have the business idea and know what you want to do, but actually building the business takes work, commitment, courage, and consistency.

Today, I took my business cards and went door to door to different businesses, introducing myself and letting people know that I'm a Realtor and that I can help with buying, selling, and leasing. I was proud of myself because it wasn't necessarily easy, but I knew I had to put myself out there.

I've built businesses before, including my travel business, so I know that sometimes you simply have to put your name out there and get the word out.

And that's what I want to encourage you to do if you're starting fresh. Don't be afraid to tell people about your business. People have to know who you are and what you do before they can use your services.

It's going to be uncomfortable in the beginning. That's normal. You have to get the reps in. The more you do it, the more comfortable you become.

While you're building, you have to build courage—the courage to keep going, keep pushing, and keep showing up.

Most importantly, pray and let God guide you. I know God has a plan, and I'm going to do my part and let God take care of the rest.

If you're starting something new, keep going. You may be starting from the ground up, but you don't have to build alone.

Watch the full video here: 

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Don't let anyone steal your joy!

 Starting From Scratch: Building With Faith and Courage

What's up, wonderful, amazing, sweet, and lovely people! I hope you're having an amazing day and, most importantly, still choosing your joy.

Have you ever had to start from scratch? To build something from the ground up? That's where I am right now with my real estate business.

Starting a business sounds exciting when it's just an idea, but turning that idea into something real takes work, consistency, courage, and commitment. Recently, I stepped outside my comfort zone and went from business to business handing out my cards and introducing myself as a Texas Realtor. It wasn't necessarily easy, but I was proud of myself for taking action.

I've learned that people can't support what they don't know exists. Sometimes you have to put yourself out there, tell people what you do, and keep showing up—even when things feel uncomfortable.

And I'm trusting God through this entire process. I know I have a part to play, but I also know that God has a plan. My job is to take action, stay faithful, and let Him take care of the rest.

If you're starting something new, don't be afraid to begin at the bottom. Keep going. Keep putting in the reps. Build your courage and keep moving forward.

And remember: starting from scratch doesn't mean starting without purpose.

Watch the full video here:

Don't let anyone steal your joy!

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You Don't Have to Do It All by Yourself

You Don't Have to Do It All by Yourself

What's up, wonderful, amazing, sweet, and lovely people! Welcome back to Maryam's Joyful Life!

Today, I want to share something I've been learning while doing what I do every day—cooking for my family, taking care of my children, working on my businesses, and trying to accomplish my goals.

Sometimes life can feel like a juggling act. One minute I'm making homemade chili for the family, the next I'm helping a travel client with a reservation, feeding the baby, and trying to get my own work done. Being a mom and running businesses isn't always easy!

But somewhere in the middle of all that doing, God has been teaching me something important: I don't have to depend on my own effort for everything to work out.

I'm naturally a go-getter. When I have a goal, I want to work hard and make it happen. But when we become consumed with our goals and results, disappointment can hit hard when things don't go according to plan.

Watch the Video here:

I've learned that sometimes we can become so focused on achieving that we lose our peace—and unfortunately, we can even take our frustration out on people who didn't cause it.

God keeps bringing me back to Matthew 6:33: "Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."

I'm learning to work, but also to surrender. To have goals, but allow God to lead me. To do my part without believing everything depends on me.

I've seen God do amazing things in my life, and some of those blessings came when I stopped striving, surrendered, and allowed His peace to lead me.

Maybe you need that reminder today too: You can work hard without carrying everything. Trust God. Surrender. Stay aligned. And let His peace lead you.