Glamography Magazine aims to feature everyday women and their stories. Our mission is to give these women the opportunity to break out of their day-to-day, get glammed up a little, and celebrate their true, authentic selves. This is Tamara's feature from the Summer 2024 issue of Glamography:

This past year has been the most challenging year of Tamara's life. After being with her husband for 17 years, she made the heart-wrenching decision to separate. For Tamara, who always puts others' needs above her own, this was an incredibly tough choice. She watched her children struggle through the transition, a heartbreaking sight for any mother. "In order for me to be happy, it had to be done," she explained. Yet, her children have shown remarkable resilience, adapting well to their new lifestyle.

Tamara’s story is one of relentless perseverance. From a young age, she was deeply influenced by her mother, who worked tirelessly and always put others first. This work ethic and selflessness were qualities she inherited and carried with her throughout her life. "Growing up, I watched my mom work hard, go to school and take care of her family. I had multiple jobs starting at age 14, helped with my younger siblings, excelled in school and played sports. Staying busy and disciplined as well as having my mom as my role model, molded me into who I am today," she reflected.

However, Tamara also witnessed the toll that neglecting one’s health could take. Seeing her mother’s health decline, she resolved to prioritize her own well-being. "I've committed to focusing on myself for the first time in my life. Both my mental and physical health. I no longer care what others think, I am not feeding into pressure, but doing what makes me happy and staying disciplined."

The last year has been a journey of self-discovery for Tamara. "I have never been alone so much in my life. It has been both challenging and rewarding finding myself," she shared.

Her children, her "everything," went from being with her every day for 15 years to sharing time with their father. Fortunately, their great co-parenting relationship has eased this transition.

Despite personal turmoil, Tamara managed her Real Estate and Property Management business. "Running a business while navigating parenting, working, and household duties alone was overwhelming. My clients who stuck with me, I cannot thank you enough, along with the ongoing support from friends and family."

Tamara’s kindness and big heart have often been both a blessing and a curse. “People think I’m so strong because of everything I’ve been through. However, I have the biggest heart that loves helping people. I am trying to be more self-preserving and tell people no, but then I feel bad and always continue the cycle. It’s difficult to transition to the lens of saying no, this is me practicing self-preservation and that’s ok,” she confessed.

Standing up for herself has been a crucial part of her journey, especially as a newly single woman. “I have gone through so much growth because of turmoil. I’m sure a lot of women may find my comments a tad close to home. I try to focus on business, but am met with ill-intended advances from men who are indifferent to my professionalism. I’ve had to reinvent myself and find a way to navigate my emotions in order to make a living to take care of my kids.”

Tamara's journey is not just about survival but about finding strength and reclaiming her worth. "I’ve had to end many professional and personal relationships over the past year because people were taking my kindness for granted and using me. I’m pretty sure my standards are too high, but it seems as if every guy I’ve had feelings for has turned out to be a womanizer or had a girlfriend or wife I didn’t know about. I’m a firm believer in being your full authentic self so I’m trying not to change who I am, but it’s hard when I keep experiencing this," she admitted.

Yet, she continues to persevere. "I’m getting to a better place. I just blocked a few people and fired a couple of clients who were taking advantage of me. I’ve started setting boundaries everywhere. It’s a trigger for me now, if I feel unvalued for one minute, I’m done."

A Flourishing Real Estate Career

Tamara’s career in real estate is a testament to her dedication and tenacity. She worked for a Property Management company for 14 years, facing numerous challenges along the way. "I was not getting paid enough for my worth, not promoted because I was 'too young,' or quite frankly, because I am a woman," she explained. This disparity in treatment and pay compared to her male counterparts was frustrating and disheartening. "I knew I could not continue or move up any further in the career ladder so I had to make a change."

Determined to break free from these limitations, Tamara decided to get her Real Estate license. "After passing the exam, I worked full-time as a Regional Manager and full-time in Real Estate until I paid off the debt I wanted to and had savings to only work in Real Estate. That was four years ago, and I couldn't be happier with my decision," she shared proudly.

Her passion for helping people find their dream homes drives her success in Real Estate. "Helping people find their dream home is the absolute best feeling, and I love what I do!" she exclaimed. But her journey didn't stop there. As she continued to receive requests from former clients to manage their properties, she saw an opportunity to expand her career further. "I decided to get my Broker's License to start my own management company as the demand continued to increase," she said.

Tamara’s commitment to excellence and her clients is unwavering. "I also manage Airbnbs in the surrounding areas. My son plays AAU travel basketball, and my daughter is now starting to travel as well (both are really good I might add).

Needless to say, we are ALWAYS on the go. This gives me the flexibility to not miss my kids' events and work while I travel. I am constantly talking about Real Estate wherever I go."

Her entrepreneurial spirit and ability to balance her professional and personal life are truly inspiring. Despite the challenges, she has built a successful career that allows her to be there for her children while pursuing her passion.

A Message of Empowerment

Tamara hopes her story inspires other women to pursue their dreams and prioritize their well-being. "There is always light at the end of the tunnel. Some days I would feel like I would never see this light, but I just kept pushing through.

I will say, through tragedy and turmoil, you find out who your true friends are and this is a blessing as well as heartbreaking at the same time. I hope all women remember that they are strong, beautiful, and can be happy if they put in the work to focus on themselves and choose to. Do not let society tell you any different."

Her message is clear: "Always be yourself. No matter what anyone says or if people are trying to dim your light because they are jealous, always be yourself. The people that love you and want to be in your life will be there for you. Always put yourself first; you cannot pour from an empty cup."

Tamara's journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of self-love. Her story encourages us all to stay true to ourselves, set boundaries, and never give up, no matter the challenges we face.

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