How do you win the Miss America Pageant? Control your thoughts. No doubt you will be tempted to compare evening gowns, swimsuits, talent and body but doing so will set you up for failure. As you are listening or watching the talents of others, and seeing the various state titleholders in their swimsuits you will be tempted to think, “How can I beat her?” or worse “My talent (or body) is better than hers.” Why do I say worse? If you compare in your favor you will compare to your disadvantage. Without comparing know your assets and realize that no girl can compete with you if you just remain you.

Most girls will unknowingly begin comparing themselves to titleholders who are “below their level.” In their comparison they will gain confidence and will begin to feel like they have a shot at being Miss America. Then here comes the girl who has the look, the talent and the personality and because you have gained your confidence through the comparison and evaluation of others you will lose that confidence by comparing yourself to the girl who you think is “your only competition.” Just be you, the best you that you can, and then let the judges decide. Your job is to compete for the job of Miss America, not to judge the other contestants so stay in your lane and you will experience so much more success and give yourself the opportunity to win the Miss America pageant.