How to Obtain Joy on Pageant Week: Practical Tools
Pageant weekends are a whirlwind. They’re filled with rehearsals, outfits, smiles, nerves, and the quiet moments in between. As much as we prepare ourselves for the moments on stage, the real preparation lies in protecting our joy and confidence throughout the journey. Here are some tools and affirmations to help keep your heart grounded and your joy shining through every step.
1. Know What You Bring to the Table
Walking into a pageant, it’s easy to start doubting what makes you unique. It’s normal to look around and feel a bit overwhelmed. But remember, your story is uniquely yours—no one else can bring that to the stage. God has gifted you with talents, purpose, and a calling that no one else has. Stand in that confidence — Approach every part of pageant weekend from a place of trust that God has a plan for you. He chose you to be here at this moment, so embrace the unique qualities you bring to the table.
Affirmation: “I am enough. I am equipped with all I need to shine and make a difference.”
2. Compassion Over Comparison
Comparison is the quickest thief of joy. When you catch yourself comparing, replace that energy with compassion. The other girls standing beside you are also here with their dreams and hopes; they, too, have overcome challenges to be on this stage. Be happy for them, cheer them on, and remind yourself that there is no one right way to win. God created us all uniquely for a reason!
Take pride in your journey, knowing that comparison is like a fog that dims the light God wants to shine through you. When we let comparison go, we make room for joy, friendship, and the experience of seeing others through God’s eyes.
Affirmation: “I choose compassion over comparison, celebrating others’ journeys as I honor my own.”
3. Guard Your Joy with Positive Affirmations
Pageant weekends are notorious for their fast pace and high stakes, which can make it easy to lose touch with joy. Ground yourself in affirmations, setting the tone for each day with words that speak life into your heart.
Write affirmations on sticky notes or in your journal, keep them in your crown box, or even set them as reminders on your phone. Whenever doubts or nerves arise, take a moment to speak them over yourself. Remind yourself that your worth and joy are already rooted in Him, no matter the outcome.
Affirmation: “The joy of the Lord is my strength; I am confident, loved, and prepared.”
4. Remember God’s Plan is Bigger Than Any Pageant
Take a breath and remember that God’s plan for you is greater than anything in this world. Whether you walk away with a crown or not, you are still crowned in His love and purpose.
Every experience in pageantry, whether it’s a victory or a lesson, is part of God’s greater story for your life. Trust that He knows your heart and has a purpose far beyond what you can imagine. Letting go and trusting in His plan allows you to experience joy in every moment, knowing you’re already a winner in His eyes.
Affirmation: “God’s plan for me is beautiful and perfect. I walk forward with faith, knowing His will is for my good.”
5. Practical Tools for Keeping Your Joy
Along with these affirmations, here are some practical tools to help keep your joy steady:
Daily Gratitude: Start each day by jotting down three things you’re grateful for. Reflecting on God’s goodness keeps your heart focused on the blessings around you.
Pause for Prayer or Reflection: Find quiet moments to center yourself. Step away from the busyness, take a few deep breaths, and offer a short prayer.
Celebrate Small Wins: Every small win is worth celebrating! Whether it’s a new friend made, nailing your walk, or just showing up with courage, give yourself credit for each accomplishment.
Be Present: Sometimes joy is found by simply living in the moment. Be mindful of each part of your pageant experience—the laughter, the nerves, and the little victories. Savor it all as a gift from God.
6. Closing with a Heart of Joy
Pageantry is about so much more than what happens on stage. It’s a journey of growth, courage, and stepping into the person God created you to be. As long as you keep your eyes on Him, you’ll walk away from every experience with your heart full and your joy intact. As the saying goes, “The crown on your head is a reminder of the crown in your heart.” Let this pageant be a reminder of God’s goodness and His dreams for your life.
Final Affirmation: “I am crowned with God’s joy, purpose, and peace, and nothing can take that away.”
