Maryann Rivera-Dannert
FABULOUS LIFE
SHRED & STRUT MONEY TRAVEL & DISCOVER RELATIONSHIPS
From the Editor
Happy New Year and welcome to a brand-new chapter of possibilities! As we step into January, the month that symbolizes fresh starts and new beginnings, we’re embracing the opportunity to hit the reset button, refocus on what truly matters, and reignite the spark within us.
Our theme for January is “New Beginnings and Restarting.” It’s not just about setting resolutions or creating vision boards though those can be powerful tools it’s about taking meaningful steps toward becoming the best version of yourself. Whether you’re starting over, starting fresh, or simply seeking ways to grow, this issue is packed with inspiration, tools, and stories to guide you along the way.
We’re also excited to feature expert advice on how to release what no longer serves you and make room for the abundance waiting to flow into your life.
At Fabulousness Unleashed, we believe every day is an opportunity to begin again. As the Editor-in-Chief, I’m thrilled to guide you through this journey of renewal and self-discovery. Let’s make this year the one where we take bold steps, embrace our fabulousness, and unleash our full potential!
Cheers to fresh starts and limitless possibilities Let’s make it a year to remember
With love and inspiration,
Maryann Rivera-Dannert Editor-in-Chief Fabulousness Unleashed
fabulous life
FEELINGS: THE GATEWAY TO TRANSFORMATION
BY: MARYANN RIVERA-DANNERT
AUTHOR | PODCASTER | SPEAKER | COACH
Overcoming Common Barriers
While the process of feeling can be freeing, it’s not without its challenges. Here are some common barriers and how to overcome them:
1
Fear of Vulnerability: It can feel scary to face emotions that you’ve buried for a long time. Start small by acknowledging just one feeling at a time.
Tip: Remind yourself that vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.
2
Overwhelm: Emotions can feel like a raging river, especially when you’re not used to dealing with them. Prioritize one emotion or situation to process at a time.
Tip: Use grounding techniques like deep breathing or focusing on your five senses to stay present.
3
Judgment: Self-criticism can surface when we feel emotions we think we “shouldn’t” have.
Tip: Practice self-compassion by treating yourself as you would a dear friend. Replace judgment with understanding.
Embrace the Power of Feeling
Feeling is not a sign of weakness but strength. By creating space for your emotions, expressing them, and exploring them with understanding, you begin to rewrite your story. You step into a place of authenticity, empowerment, and courage—living fearlessly.
Remember, feelings are temporary, but the lessons they bring can last a lifetime. The next time you feel overwhelmed, celebrate it as an opportunity to connect with your true self and grow into the secure and strong woman you are meant to be.
shred & strut
A NEW YEAR, A NEW DOOR, A NEW SEASON: A FRESH NEW START TO A HEALTHIER, STRONGER, MENTALLY AND HAPPIER YOU
BY: SABRINA CUEVAS HEALTH COACH
“Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do! And whatever else you do, develop good judgment.” NLT 7:4 Proverbs Accountability is another tool that will keep you successful in your journey. Surround yourself with a group that has the same goals that you are working on. Get yourself an accountability friend so that you can check in with each other daily, keep each other in check, and encourage each other to keep pushing when the time gets tough.
There are online communities, online groups, local groups, or you can even form your own. This will help you stay in check and be real with your weight-loss journey or whatever health goals you are trying to build. As the Bible reminds us, 'As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend' (Proverbs 27:17).
It’s a new year, It’s a new season, it’s a new door, a new book, a new chapter. Welcome to 2025! It’s your season, it’s your year to put your words, your weight-loss journey, or whatever health goals into action. Transformation doesn’t happen overnight, but I promise you, that you, will start feeling good. The key is to be persistent, consistent, patient and kind to yourself. Love yourself, and in whatever season your body is in. Through this journey build your mindset and surround yourself with others that have the same mission and goals to accomplish.
Celebrate all the small wins because they do all add up to big wins! You will triumph over your mountains, your goals and health. As you start this journey, remember the words of Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.”
2 Practice Self-Compassion
Happiness begins with how you treat yourself Negative self-talk and perfectionism can drain your joy and confidence Instead, embrace self-compassion Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer to a close friend.
Action Step: When you catch yourself being self-critical, pause and shift your thoughts. Replace harsh judgments with affirmations, such as, “I am doing my best, and that is enough ”
3 Let Go of What No Longer Serves You
Holding onto past hurts, toxic relationships, or limiting beliefs can keep you stuck. Letting go isn’t about ignoring the past; it’s about releasing its hold on your present and future.
Action Step: Identify one thing—a habit, a thought, or even a relationship—that no longer aligns with your happiness Take one small step today to begin releasing it, whether that means having a difficult conversation, setting a boundary, or simply deciding to move forward
4.
Embrace Joyful Movement
Movement isn’t just good for your body; it’s a powerful way to boosting your mood and connecting with your inner self When you move in a way that feels good—whether it’s dancing, walking, or yoga you release endorphins and build a sense of empowerment
Action Step: Choose an activity that brings you joy and commit to it for just 10 minutes today. Let it be something fun and uplifting, not something you feel obligated to do.
5 Connect with Your Purpose
Happiness blossoms when you live in alignment with your values and passions Take time to reconnect with what truly matters to you and take small steps toward living a life of purpose
Action Step: Write down one thing you’re passionate about or a goal that excites you. Then, list one action you can take today no matter how small to move closer to it.
The Key to Lasting Happiness
Happiness isn’t a one-time achievement; it’s a daily practice. By cultivating gratitude, practicing self-compassion, letting go of the past, moving joyfully, and connecting with your purpose, you’re taking intentional steps toward a life that feels free, fearless, and fabulous.
Remember, everything you need to be happy is already within you The journey starts with one step why not take it today?
money
NEW YEAR, NEW FINANCIAL BEGINNINGS: SETTING FINANCIAL GOALS FOR Q1
BY: AYANNA SMITH LICENSED FINANCIAL PROFESSIONAL
Protect Your Financial Future with Insurance
Life insurance is a crucial component of financial planning. Beyond providing for your loved ones, policies like indexed universal life (IUL) or whole life insurance can offer cash value growth and living benefits. Use Q1 to review your current policies or explore new ones to ensure your financial foundation is secure.
Create a Financial Vision Board
Visualizing your goals can be a powerful motivator. Include images and affirmations that represent your financial aspirations, such as a dream home, a debt-free lifestyle, or a thriving business. Place your vision board somewhere visible to remind yourself of the bigger picture.
Seek Professional Guidance
If you feel overwhelmed, consider consulting a financial advisor or coach. Professionals can help you create a personalized plan, optimize your tax strategy, and stay accountable throughout the year.
Conclusion: A Year of Purposeful Financial Growth
The new year is brimming with opportunities to achieve financial greatness. By setting clear goals, making intentional choices, and leveraging resources, you can build the financial
F O R G I V E N E S S
The Art of Forgiveness: A Path to Fearless Living
Forgiveness is often misunderstood as condoning wrongdoing or letting someone off the hook. In reality, forgiveness is a gift you give to yourself—a deliberate choice to let go of resentment and pain so you can move forward with peace and freedom. It is not about forgetting the violation but about reclaiming your power and emotional well-being. Forgiveness is a transformative process that can elevate your life in ways you never imagined.
Why Forgiveness Matters
Carrying the weight of anger and bitterness is like drinking poison and expecting someone else to suffer. Resentment doesn’t punish the person who hurt you; it punishes you. Forgiveness, on the other hand, frees you from this burden. Stop holding yourself hostage, when you hold the keys to be set free.
This process isn’t always easy, especially when the hurt runs deep. However, practicing forgiveness can be a powerful act of courage and self-love.
Here are three key benefits of forgiveness that directly contribute to a fearless and fulfilling life:
1. Emotional Freedom
Forgiveness releases you from the emotional chains of anger, sadness, and bitterness. When you forgive, you take your power back, and the mental and emotional energy consumed by negative emotions starts to be released. This shift in your mindset allows you to focus on what truly matters—your growth, happiness, and goals.
Emotional freedom aligns with fearless living because it removes the barriers of fear and pain that often keep you stuck in the past. With a lighter heart, you’re more open to taking risks and embracing new opportunities.
HOW DID I GET HERE? HEALING AND RECOVERY AFTER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE - PART 2
BY: TANYA BANKSTON COACH | MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR
3. Allow yourself to learn your blind spots, or areas of vulnerabilities. We all have them! Don’t be ashamed of your imperfections. NO one can take advantage of your weaknesses if you are aware of them (and working on them, with a professional)
4. Face your relationship fear. Time alone in a healthy space is much better than being in an unhealthy, abusive, toxic relationship. As a side note (I had to learn this the hard way), if you are afraid to be alone, and you can’t enjoy your own company how can others enjoy your company?
5. Evaluate and analyze your boundaries…when I ask my clients about relationship boundaries, I am often told, “I never thought about it”, “No one has ever taught me about relationship boundaries”, “I guess I don’t have any”. Well I had to learn from several abusive relationships with narcissists that if there were no boundaries identified, articulated, or enforced, I left myself open for attack by a narcissist Ooooh was this a hard reality for me to face! I am not indicating that anyone deserves to be the victim of an abusive relationship of any kind! Not having boundaries made me prone to become pry.
6. Fall in love with yourself…the more you love yourself, the more you realize that you are one of a kind, and you are deserving of healthy relationships with others
Let me know if this article has been helpful by emailing me at Coachtbankston@gmail.com. Do you have relationship questions, email me at the same email.
