Challenges | Adjustments | Everything in Between
A lot of people would think that becoming a beauty queen, and ultimately getting the chance to represent the country, is an easy feat. Today, I would like to talk about why that is not the case and listed down some of my own personal experiences:
1) Joining competitions is very costly.
- This, for me, is my number one reality. As much as I would love to pursue this dream, it is very difficult to accomplish when your resources and network are limited. As someone who comes from the province and who is living independently, it was such a huge risk and adjustment for me to move to the capital of the country so I could compete. I had to shoulder everything and so I promised myself I would not stop working even during competitions. I could no longer count the number of sleepless nights – when others only had to think about how to win, I had to think of working, surviving, training, and all at the same time give it my all for the dream. This one, I know, goes to a lot of aspirants as well and my heart goes out for these young girls because I know how hard it can be! One thing I can say is, it will all be worth it, trust the process!
2) To be a beauty queen, you are expected to look and be perfect all the time!
- This is commonly what is instilled in every aspirant but I want you to know that the world does not need perfection right now! It needs you to be exactly who you are – flaws and all, and a heart of gold.
3) Competing can lead you to comparing yourself with others.
- I know this firsthand and you would oftentimes wonder if you are ever enough. Let me tell you, YOU ARE, you are more than enough! Focus on you, focus on growing, focus on enjoying your moment.
4) Failures can heighten self-doubts.
- Losing so many times in the past, I know what it can do to your self-esteem. Please, embrace the feeling of disappointment, of frustration, then let it go. Ask yourself, did you do your best at that moment? Did you give it your all? If so, there is nothing to be ashamed of! It is an experience and it is a learning that will propel you towards your inevitable success!
5) People will tell you, you can’t!
- Oh yes, people will always have something to say. You lack this, you will never reach that, you are no better than this, you should do that, and the list goes on! I remember being told so many times that I would never be Miss World Philippines and when I did, told me I should’ve never won and that I would never make it far. But you know what, drown out the noise and listen to your heart. Stay rooted to your core and to your purpose. There may be doubters, but there are also believers – so believe in them and believe in your power to inspire.
6) Not everyone will have your best interest at heart.
- Surround yourself with good people, with people who dream, with people who talk about ideas rather than talk about people, with people who will stick with you through the hard times. These people are rare, you will find some and then you lose some, so be picky who to trust. Always be kind but at the same time, respect your boundaries, trust your instincts, and never be afraid to walk away from constant heaviness and negativity. You will thank yourself later for it!
I’m sure you already know most of these things but hey, I want to be that constant reminder! Fall down seven, get up eight! Clap for others until it’s your turn! Be bold. Be grateful. Be you. <3