As you may recall from an English class, in Charles Dickens’ book, Great Expectations, the main character – Pip – struggles with his expectations. He envisions a future filled with glamour and respect that seems to promise more value than the current life he leads. In chasing his lofty dream, Pip becomes so consumed by what he believes his future should look like that he loses sight of the worth of his present reality.
Pip goes through great inner conflict. Eventually, he is forced to confront the external factors he believes indicate success – wealth, status, and respect – could never replace his inner worth or his true authenticity.
This is a powerful reminder for all of us: there is a big difference between cultivating a growth mindset and holding unrealistic expectations. In the world of pageantry, while every contestant’s goal is to take home the crown, there is only one crown available on stage.
What truly matters is the journey toward that crown – through rigorous practice, persistent self-improvement, and the development of inherent talents. Just as Pip learned that the pursuit of an idealized future can blind us to the beauty of the present, pageant competitors can benefit immensely from setting process-oriented goals alongside that ultimate aspiration. Focus on what you can control: develop your skills, build your confidence, and celebrate your progress – no matter how small. Each challenge and each practice session is an opportunity to learn more about yourself, to refine your capabilities, and to grow as a person. In doing this, you not only aim for that crown, but you also ensure that you emerge from the journey with a deeper sense of purpose and authenticity.
Remember, the real victory lies not just in winning the title but in the relentless pursuit of excellence and self-discovery. Embrace each moment of the preparation process and let your growth mindset shine through! Just like Pip’s eventual realization, you will find that success is best measured by the person you become along the way.
If you are ready to turn your aspirations into a journey of confidence and self-discovery, I’d love to talk with you about how to build that winning mindset. Reach out today and let’s create your plan to celebrate your unique brilliance both in your pageant and beyond.
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