My Top 10 Tips

Hello All!

Many of you have contacted me asking for help as you prepare for the upcoming pageant season.  Although I cannot give any individual help, I wanted to share my advice.

As I prepared this past year, I thought BEYOND the Miss Florida competition and into the actual job of Miss Florida and the preparation for Miss America. 

The list below showcases how I prepared and although nothing is necessarily tangible it challenges you to change your thought process.  Remember, that it all begins with the power of the mind, the passion of the heart, and the will of the soul.

1. The role of Miss Florida is not just a job, but it is a way of life.  Starting now you should place yourself in the shoes of Miss Florida and live accordingly.
2.  Practice time management skills.  The job of Miss Florida is a demanding one and it is imperative that you master these skills before you are crowned Miss Florida.
3. Physical Fitness and nutrition should be viewed as a necessity for the REST OF YOUR LIFE and not just for competition week.  The purpose of this is to ensure that Miss Florida is healthy all year long!  I believe that “a better you equals a better service.”  How can anyone give the best of themselves without first being the best that they can be?
4. Take every opportunity you can to speak publicly.  The only way to master public speaking skills is to actually practice!
5.  ALWAYS be gracious!  So many people give their time to this organization because they believe in the benefits that it truly provides to us young women.  In order for our organization to thrive, we must FIRST AND FOREMOST give our many thanks to those involved.
6.  Realize that there is a true power behind the crown even at the local level!  As Miss Winter Park, I booked most of my appearances myself and was able to find support from so many people as I prepared for Miss Florida and also with my platform.
7. Separate yourself from any negativity…especially as you prepare for any of your competitions.  Know in your heart that you are who you are and “those who matter don’t mind, and those who mind, don’t matter.”
8. Every encounter you make leaves a lasting impression, and as contestants in the Miss America Organization, you must always remember this.  When you meet someone, this may be the only time they meet a MAO contestant, so leave them with the best impression!
9. Nourish your heart with only positive thoughts about your fellow competitors.  Remember that every single girl has her own journey and their own personal triumphs, as you do.
10. Be yourself and most importantly EMBRACE THE JOURNEY!  We can get so caught up in our preparations that we forget how fortunate we are to be a part of such an amazing organization.

All my love,

Kristina