When I was young, I used to watch the Miss America pageant in awe of how beautiful and confident the contestants were. As an awkward gal myself, I couldn’t fathom walking with such grace and being so elegant. Even in the “behind-the-scenes” footage they’d show, where the ladies were visiting a children’s hospital or having a fun day at the zoo, they still looked gorgeous in khaki shorts and t-shirts.
What girl didn’t want to be them?
Now that I’m older, I realize it wasn’t the perfect tans or silky sashes that made those young ladies so attractive. I didn’t want to be them, I wanted to present myself like they did. It’s all about confidence.
I’m still rather awkward in a pair of heels, and my t-shirt and shorts don’t seem to sizzle like theirs, but I’ve come to realize that if I live every day like I’m on the stage, I’m every bit as beautiful.
Now, I’m not talking strutting around in my swimwear or waving like I can’t bend my elbow. I’m talking about walking with confidence and putting my best foot forward.
If you’d like to live like you’re in a pageant, here are some helpful hints:
• Smile. Smile like you didn’t just step in someone’s nasty gum-wad or find out that your son has been hiding marshmallows in your couch
• Keep your chin up like you’re wearing a crown. Nobody will know you just lost your keys for the fifth time this week
• When you’re speaking to large groups, scan the room. If you have trouble speaking and looking folks in the eye, look at their foreheads. They’ll be focusing on your face, not your shaky knees
• Showcase your talents. Don’t draw attention to a weakness, show people your strengths. If they’re dazzled by your ability to hold a child’s hand while carrying two grocery bags, they won’t notice you mixed your whites and reds and are now sporting pink socks
• Step slowly and elegantly. If you’re hurrying around, you’re more likely to reveal your talent for tripping over your own feet. Face-plants are hardly ever sexy
• The show must go on. If you goof up, keep on going. Don’t waste time making excuses or trying to cover up a folly. Every gal’s spilled coffee on her blouse, sister. Let it go
Being a beauty pageant contestant isn’t easy. Those women work for it like the rest of us. Our advantage is the lack of TV cameras. Practice your pageant tips, and you’ll be Miss America every day.
Image Source: flickr.com/photos/easement/2411184193
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