We recently connected with Mukee Murtaza Kabani and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Mukee Murtaza , we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?
Starting the journey to self-confidence can be quite the challenge, and I still remember those tough days when my self-esteem wasn’t at its best. I’m so grateful for my wonderful parents and family, especially my dad, whose constant encouragement really made a difference. I’ve had some amazing support that really helped me embrace who I am, and it truly made a difference in my life. Whether it was choosing schools that matched my interests or pursuing a career that ignited my passion, those choices were key to shaping who I am today. I learned the value of independence and the importance of making my own decisions, and I realized that even the smallest steps can lead to personal growth. One of the biggest lessons my dad taught me was not to settle for anything less than what I deserve. He really helped me understand the value of self-worth, self-respect, and the freedom to be myself. That nudge of encouragement gave me the confidence to truly value who I am. It feels so liberating to express myself openly and speak my mind without fear!
Looking back, I can still feel the sting of bullying I faced in school and at work—often for things like my accent, appearance, and identity. Those moments were tough, but they also revealed a well of resilience within me. I made a conscious choice to stay true to myself, refusing to change my true self just to fit in. Instead, I embraced my individuality with a strong determination to keep going and a firm belief in my worth. From an early age, I learned to practice self-love, celebrating the things that made me unique rather than letting negativity bring me down.
What I’ve come to realize is that true confidence comes from appreciating ourselves just the way we are. Building real confidence starts with self-acceptance. It means loving not only our strengths but also our weaknesses, embracing our mistakes, owning our blunders, and learning from our failures. It’s all about cherishing every part of who we are—even the beautiful imperfections—and wholeheartedly enjoying the incredible journey of becoming our best selves.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Hey there! Let me share my story with you. I’m a small-town girl with huge dreams! I was born in the breathtaking Hunza Valley in northern Pakistan but my family moved to bustling Karachi for better education and opportunities. Growing up in a joint family meant I was often playing the role of a mini caretaker for my cousins, which was quite the adventure and responsibility!
Thanks to my amazing dad, I’ve traveled a lot! He made every birthday and holiday special with road trips to museums, historical sites, and beautiful beaches. He ingrained in me the joy of exploring new places, and I couldn’t be more grateful. Because of him, I’ve gained the confidence to travel solo and with friends, and I’ve had the chance to visit 3 continents, 13 countries, and 32 cities so far!
On the professional side, I’ve always had a passion for my work and giving back to the community! From a young age, I dove into the corporate world while juggling my studies and getting involved in voluntarily services, fun activities like debate, dance, painting, and sports. I even got to attend youth conferences both at home and abroad, which was an amazing experience! Currently, I’m working with seriously ill individuals, and I absolutely love it. Caring for them brings me such joy and a real sense of purpose in my life!
When I’m not working, you’ll find me having fun with my fur baby, Skye Mille, and spending quality time with my husband. I also love recording episodes for my podcast, “Great Big Energy,” and whipping up some delicious home-cooked meals for my family.
I run a blog called Hunza Girl that’s all about slow, messy, and authentic living. It also focuses on fashion, lifestyle, and travel. I strive to be genuine with my followers. I’m also stepping into an exciting new chapter in my life, and I can’t wait to share more details with my followers when the time is right. Thanks for being a part of my journey!
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
This is a bit of a challenge, but let me share my thoughts! I believe that listening is such an underrated skill. In both my personal and professional life, I always try to be mindful when someone is talking to me, whether it’s family, friends, or patients. I’m still learning to be more empathetic while I listen, and I make an effort to acknowledge their feelings and just be there for them. This approach has helped me build trust with the people around me.
Hey everyone! Let’s not overlook the amazing impact that good listening can have. By simply being attentive and showing empathy, we have the ability to make a real difference in someone’s life.
Another important lesson on my journey has been the impact of treating everyone with kindness and respect. You know the saying: what goes around comes around. I genuinely believe in that! It doesn’t matter if someone is a CEO, a doctor, or a housekeeper—every person deserves kindness and respect.
Respect and kindness do go a long way. When you show these qualities to others, you are uplifting and supporting them!
I’m not quite sure if having good energy is a skill or just part of who we are, but I’ve learned to be mindful of the energy I share with others. It’s so easy to pass on negative vibes when we’re feeling upset or angry. Often, we do this at home or work. For instance, if a husband is feeling mad, he might take it out on his wife, and vice versa. The same goes for the workplace—if a manager is in a bad mood, it can affect the whole team.
Hey there! The next time you’re not feeling your best, take a little time just for you. Whether it’s meditating, doing some yoga, dancing around, or journaling, find what feels good. And don’t forget to chat about your feelings with friends you trust—that can really help you sort through what’s on your mind. Remember, what goes around comes around! Let’s be mindful of the energy we put out into the world because it always finds its way back to us!
On the flip side, it’s super important to be mindful of who you share your energy with! I truly believe our energy is one of our most valuable assets. Some people might take more than they give, leaving you feeling drained or unappreciated. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty glass, so it’s essential to surround yourself with those who uplift and appreciate you!
As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?
Oh my! There are so many beautiful books out there, but Rumi has truly been my spiritual mentor. One book that has profoundly shifted my perspective is *The Forty Rules of Love* by Elif Shafak. It offers some incredibly valuable wisdom that resonates deeply:
– Firstly, remember that you are a complete whole just as you are. It’s important not to seek approval or validation from others; instead, turn your gaze inward. Everything you are searching for outside of yourself is already within you.
– Embrace yourself fully. Let go of any negative voices that might make you feel less than worthy. You are born worthy, enough, and filled with light. Never let that light dim, and don’t shrink your sense of self-worth.
– Always acknowledge that there’s a greater power beyond ourselves. Whether it’s the mountains, the ocean, the skies, the trees, or the divine — whatever source you believe in — it’s essential to seek His mercy and forgiveness.
One of the most crucial lessons is to refrain from judging others, no matter their color, status, race, or ethnicity. Each person on this earth has a unique purpose.
Let go of judgment about appearances, clothing, or even how they express themselves. Instead, choose kindness. This world serves as a test, a fleeting reality. The real challenge lies in how we treat one another.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://hunzagirl.wordpress.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hunzagirl/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/18RNo6ZT22/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mukee-r-kabani-1bb05b169
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/hunzagirl
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZ3SVA3sr7sTgv7W8P2iqrg
- Other: Podcast:
https://www.instagram.com/greatbigenergy/
Image Credits
Most of these photos are taken by my amazing husband.
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.