Empowering Lives: An Interview with Mariyah, Author of 'Unchaining Potential'

Alex

Welcome, everyone, to this special interview with Mariyah, the author of the life-changing book 'Unchaining Potential'. Mariyah, thank you so much for joining us today.

Mariyah

Thank you, Alex, it’s a pleasure to be here. I’m excited to share my thoughts and insights with your audience.

Alex

Mariyah, let's start by talking about self-limiting beliefs. Can you explain what they are and how they affect our lives?

Mariyah

Absolutely. Self-limiting beliefs are the negative thoughts and assumptions we hold about ourselves that prevent us from reaching our full potential. They can manifest in various ways, such as thinking 'I’m not good enough', 'I can’t do this', or 'I’ll never succeed'. These beliefs can be deeply ingrained and often stem from past experiences or societal expectations. They can hold us back, making us doubt our abilities and hesitate to take risks.

Alex

That’s a powerful definition. How can people identify their own self-limiting beliefs?

Mariyah

A good way to start is by paying attention to your inner dialogue. When you’re faced with a challenge or opportunity, what are the first thoughts that come to mind? Are they positive or negative? Journaling can also be very helpful. Write down your thoughts and feelings regularly, and over time, patterns will emerge. Once you identify these beliefs, you can begin to question and challenge them.

Alex

Moving on, can you elaborate on the impact of these limiting beliefs on our lives?

Mariyah

Certainly. Limiting beliefs can have a significant impact on various aspects of our lives. They can lead to self-doubt, fear of failure, and a lack of confidence, which can prevent us from pursuing our goals and dreams. They can also affect our relationships, as we may push people away or sabotage our connections due to these negative beliefs. Over time, they can even impact our mental and emotional well-being, leading to stress, anxiety, and depression.

Alex

That’s a lot to consider. What do you think is the first step in breaking free from these beliefs?

Mariyah

The first step is awareness. You need to recognize that these beliefs exist and understand how they are impacting your life. Once you have that awareness, you can start to challenge these beliefs. Ask yourself, 'Is this belief true? What evidence do I have to support it? What would I do if I didn’t have this belief?' This process of questioning can help you reframe your thoughts and develop a more positive mindset.

Alex

Let’s talk about the power of choice. In your book, you emphasize the importance of making conscious choices. Why is this so crucial?

Mariyah

The power of choice is incredibly important because it gives us control over our lives. When we make conscious choices, we take responsibility for our actions and their outcomes. This empowerment can be transformative. It allows us to align our actions with our values and goals, rather than being driven by fear or external pressures. By making intentional choices, we can create a life that is meaningful and fulfilling.

Alex

Can you give an example of how making a conscious choice can change someone’s life?

Mariyah

Certainly. Let’s say someone has a limiting belief that they are not good enough to start their own business. They may have thought about it for years but never taken action. One day, they decide to challenge this belief and make a conscious choice to start a small side project. They research, plan, and take small steps towards their goal. Over time, they gain confidence and start to see the potential in their idea. This choice leads them to build a successful business, which they might have never pursued if they had let their limiting belief control their actions.

Alex

What are the costs of staying as you are, especially when you’re held back by these limiting beliefs?

Mariyah

The cost of staying as you are can be significant. When you’re held back by limiting beliefs, you may miss out on opportunities for growth, learning, and personal development. You might find yourself stuck in a job or relationship that doesn’t fulfill you, leading to a sense of dissatisfaction and unfulfillment. Additionally, the emotional toll can be high, as you may experience feelings of regret, frustration, and even resentment. Ultimately, the cost is a life that is not lived to its fullest potential.

Alex

That’s a powerful point. How can people start to break free from this cycle?

Mariyah

Breaking free from this cycle involves a few key steps. First, recognize that you have the power to change. Believe that a different life is possible. Second, set clear goals and create a plan to achieve them. Break your goals down into small, manageable steps so that you can make progress consistently. Third, seek support from friends, family, or a mentor. Having a support system can provide encouragement and accountability. Finally, be patient and kind to yourself. Change takes time, and it’s important to celebrate your successes along the way.

Alex

Let’s talk about living in power, purpose, and courage. What does this mean to you, and how can people achieve this state of being?

Mariyah

Living in power, purpose, and courage means embracing your true self and living a life that is aligned with your values and passions. Power comes from within, from the belief that you have the ability to create the life you want. Purpose is about finding meaning in what you do and contributing to the world in a way that is meaningful to you. Courage is the willingness to take risks and face your fears. Achieving this state involves self-reflection, setting meaningful goals, and taking action. It also requires a commitment to personal growth and a willingness to learn and adapt.

Alex

Can you share a personal story of how you’ve lived in power, purpose, and courage?

Mariyah

Certainly. When I first started writing 'Unchaining Potential', I had a lot of self-doubt. I wasn’t sure if my ideas were valuable or if anyone would be interested in reading my book. But I recognized that these doubts were limiting beliefs, and I chose to challenge them. I set a goal to write a book that would help people transform their lives, and I took small steps every day to work towards that goal. It took courage to share my ideas and vulnerability to put myself out there. But the response has been incredibly rewarding, and it has reaffirmed my belief in the power of living with purpose and courage.

Alex

How can people unleash their true selves and live authentically?

Mariyah

Unleashing your true self involves a journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance. It starts with self-reflection—taking the time to understand your values, passions, and what truly matters to you. Embrace your strengths and work on your weaknesses. Practice self-compassion and be kind to yourself. Authenticity also means being honest with others and setting boundaries. It’s about living in alignment with who you are, rather than who you think you should be. This can be a liberating and empowering experience.

Alex

What advice do you have for someone who is just starting this journey of self-discovery?

Mariyah

My advice is to start small and be patient. Self-discovery is a journey, not a destination. Begin by exploring your interests and passions. Try new things and see what resonates with you. Reflect on your experiences and what you’ve learned about yourself. Journaling, meditation, and therapy can also be helpful tools. Most importantly, be gentle with yourself and celebrate your progress along the way.

Alex

Building a life you love is a key theme in your book. What are some practical steps people can take to create a life they are passionate about?

Mariyah

Creating a life you love involves aligning your actions with your values and passions. Start by identifying what brings you joy and fulfillment. Set clear goals and create a plan to achieve them. Break your goals down into small, manageable steps so that you can make consistent progress. Surround yourself with supportive people who encourage your growth. Finally, be open to change and new opportunities. Life is a dynamic process, and what you love today may evolve over time. Embrace the journey and trust that you are on the right path.

Alex

How can people stay motivated and on track with their goals, especially when faced with setbacks?

Mariyah

Staying motivated is crucial, especially when facing setbacks. One effective strategy is to focus on your 'why'. Remind yourself of the reasons why you set these goals in the first place. Visualize the end result and the positive impact it will have on your life. Celebrate small victories along the way to maintain momentum. Seek support from your network and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Finally, practice resilience. Setbacks are a natural part of the journey, and how you respond to them can make all the difference. Learn from your mistakes and keep moving forward.

Alex

Can you share a personal story or inspiration that has kept you motivated in your own journey?

Mariyah

One of my biggest inspirations is the story of a woman I met during a workshop. She had been in a toxic relationship for years and felt trapped. Through the process of self-discovery and support, she found the courage to leave the relationship and start a new chapter. She is now thriving and living a life that is true to herself. Her story reminds me that change is possible, and that no matter where you are in life, you have the power to create a better future. This has kept me motivated to continue my work and help others on their journeys.

Alex

What are some of your future projects and goals?

Mariyah

I have several exciting projects in the works. One of my main goals is to expand the reach of 'Unchaining Potential' through workshops and speaking engagements. I want to create more resources and tools that can help people on their journeys. I’m also working on a new book that delves deeper into the concept of inner power and provides more practical strategies for overcoming obstacles. Additionally, I’m exploring the possibility of starting a mentorship program to support individuals in their personal and professional growth.

Alex

That sounds fantastic. How can people stay connected with your work and get involved in these initiatives?

Mariyah

Thank you for asking. The best way to stay connected is to follow me on social media, where I share updates, insights, and resources. You can also sign up for my newsletter on my website, which provides exclusive content and early access to new projects. I also host webinars and workshops, so keep an eye out for those. I’m always looking for ways to connect and support people on their journeys, so feel free to reach out if you have any questions or want to get involved.

Alex

Finally, do you have any final thoughts or messages you’d like to share with our audience today?

Mariyah

My final message is one of hope and empowerment. No matter where you are in your life, you have the potential to create a better future. Start by recognizing and challenging your limiting beliefs. Make conscious choices that align with your values and goals. Believe in yourself and take action. You have the power to live a life driven by confidence, compassion, and intentionality. Thank you for having me today, Alex, and to everyone listening, keep shining and keep growing.

Alex

Thank you so much, Mariyah, for your inspiring words and insights. It’s been a pleasure having you on the show. Everyone, make sure to check out 'Unchaining Potential' and follow Mariyah’s journey. Until next time, stay inspired and keep reaching for your dreams. Goodbye!