I used to think confidence had everything to do with how you looked–clothes, makeup, maybe style altogether? Modeling helped me realize the truth: confidence is how you show up, even if you’re unsure you belong.
I can admit growing up, I didn’t always feel the prettiest. Often masking insecurity with a need to be seen, wanting the spotlight. So that then, begs the question, how could modeling teach any kind of confidence?
As a model, half of the job is showing up on time to casting calls, fittings, rehearsals, etc. I remember showing up, and I witnessed community. A true sense of community: where all hands were committed to a goal. A goal to create and to create something wonderful. That commitment, that support to not only actualize a dream; but the belief in the dream itself.
If I didn’t feel confident in anything else, I was confident in what we were hoping to achieve.
Modeling taught me:
- You don’t need approval to be valuable. Sometimes the best creations are from moments where validation isn’t sought yet rewarded organically.
- Your image is yours to define. I stopped trying to be this “idea” of beauty and focused on being the standard in my own lane.
- Do not dim or run from the spotlight: Things have a funny way of coming to the light. Show up, stand firm in the uncertainty. Uncertainty is the starting point to orginality.
I still have days where I don’t feel confident, where I want to shrink or shrivel away. But I remember who I am. I thrive in environments where I’m expected to show up and I am supported throughout a new experience. So that’s my belief in myself: I’ll show up.
She’s here.
If you’re waiting to “feel ready’ before you shine, stop. Show up now. That’s the trick: Confidence doesn’t come first, courage does.
Catch me on the runway of life, still walking.
k, bye
Robyn
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