3 Tips on Setting Realistic and Attainable Goals for Your Next Pageant


NAM National Finalist Blayne Brown

In a previous article I wrote about using SMART goals to jumpstart your pageant journey.  Some contestants may find it easier to set goals that are specific, and time bound, but may be challenged to set measurable, realistic and attainable ones.  Here are some suggestions:

Quantify using scores. Set your goals according to your pageant system’s scoring rubric to make your goals measurable.  You should also use placements as a marker.  Top ten, runner up, first place.

Use your previous performance  as a starting point. If you participated in a pageant last year, dig up those scores and use them as a baseline to set this year’s goal.  For example, if you scored an 8.2 out of a 9 on your interview, your new goal could be to score and 8.6.  This is realistically attainable. With hard work and dedication and just a little more practice or coaching, you should be able to attain that goal. 

On the other hand, let’s say you scored a 5.2 out of 9 on your interview.  It is NOT realistic to set a goal of 9 for this coming year.  There is no doubt that with hard work, dedication, perseverance and resilience that one day you will get there, but not any time soon.  A score this low would indicate that there may be issues that can't be fixed with minor adjustments.  You may have several areas that would require a teacher or a coach to help you develop communication skills over time.  

If you placed in the top 10 last year, your new goal should be to place in the top 5.  (Sidenote:  It is very attainable and realistic to set a goal to ‘win it all’ after having not placed at all the previous year as long as you have a good pageant coach and work tirelessly to achieve your goal!)  


Social Goals Who says your only goals have to be reward-bound?  Why not set your sights on other goals, like making a new friend or complimenting every girl you sit next to during pageant week.  If you’re more shy, why not set a goal to start a conversation with at least 4 other contestants each day of the pageant.  Your pageant should be FUN! Go into your pageant week with the intention and purpose of having lots of it!

NAM National Finalists congratulate each other on their accomplishments

Brave National Finalists having fun at their 70's party


State Queens dancing together at their National Pageant

Envision your reign

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