Hey, girl. You’re heading into pageant season, probably feeling a huge mix of emotions — stress, excitement, anxiety, gratitude, confidence, comparison… If you’ve had any range of these feelings, CONGRATULATIONS!!! You’re human. The pageant life is unlike any other. It’s both an incredible opportunity for personal and professional growth, but it’s also a very public experience, prone to judgment of your every move. I spent five years competing in the Miss America Organization, and that included many “losses” and a handful of “wins” — only I can determine what those words mean to me. Whether you’re jumping into a local pageant for the first time, or off to your fifth year at state, you do your best when you’re in the right headspace. As you pack your bags for arrival day, here are some affirmations to help you remember who you are.
With or without the title, I have dedicated my work to the mission of this program — personal and professional development through service and scholarship.
I am a clear, confident speaker and my words have value. I am ready to share my voice during my interview.
I have the skills and talent required to make a real difference.
Humility is the most admirable trait of a true queen. I must stay humble because I have room to grow.
This job is to be an ambassador for a brand. I am fully prepared to be the representative of this program.
I am filled with knowledge, and my education can never be taken from me.
I am mentally and emotionally prepared to embrace the highs and lows of this experience.
Crowns are not made of rhinestones. They are made of discipline, determination, consistency, and courage.
I am strong because I acknowledge my weaknesses. I am beautiful because I love my flaws. I am fearless because I recognize illusion from reality. I am wise because I learn from my mistakes.
I don’t need to be perfect. I just need to be authentic.
I am not designed to be the candidate next to me. I offer different skills, talents, and ideas that are just as beautiful as hers.
When I practice filling my own cup, giving to others becomes natural and joyful. I will put myself first this week, so in turn, I can serve others.
My self worth does not depend on my placement or what others say about me. I get to decide what I believe about myself.
I am allowed to feel all the feelings throughout this experience AND after the curtain closes. I can feel disappointment, anxiety, and frustration the same way I can feel joy, excitement, and gratitude. All are normal.
When it’s all over, I will look myself in the mirror and know I gave it absolutely everything I had.
I am as prepared as I can be, and even so, mistakes may still happen. I have grown from mistakes in the past, I am capable of overcoming mistakes this week, and again in the future.
Champions do not become champions when they win the event, but in the hours, weeks, months and years they spend preparing for it. The victorious performance itself is merely the demonstration of championship character.
A small panel of judges will see me for a total of about 15 minutes. I will not let their final decision alter the way I perceive my accomplishments. They don’t know me.
If I’m proud of my journey thus far, I’ve already won.
Wishing you the absolute best during this experience, sister. Focus on yourself, stay present, and know that regardless of whether or not you’re awarded the title, this is just a small sliver of your life and there are some beautiful, outstanding things that await.
Love always,
Just Jessica by Jessica Hammer 