Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.
“Be yourself; everyone else is already taken”
-Oscar’s Wilde
You know why I think people love Cardi B so much? It’s not only because she’s a fashionista and makes hit records…it’s because she always seems to be unapologetically herself! Evidently, Cardi’s personality has immensely contributed to her success.
Unfortunately, the Bronx-bred rapper often faces harsh words from critics about everything from her relationships, her past as a stripper, how she responds to drama, and even how she speaks! Sure Cardi’s a little rough around the edges, but her transparency and genuineness are traits that I truly admire!
Earlier today, Cardi shuts down the critics in a series of Instagram videos, where she expresses her frustrations with the constant backlash she receives. Her decision to remain true to herself, is a philosophy that I firmly stand behind and continue to apply in my own life situations.
For instance, in 2015, I participated in Zeta Psi Alpha’s Miss Black & Gold Pageant at West Chester University. Participating in the pageant was an overwhelmingly positive experience that allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and taught me the importance of originality and tapping into my own strengths.
The pageant requirements for contestants included delivering an introduction, strutting in a bathing suit, and performing a talent—all in front of a large audience. All of the contestants were equally stunning so I had to find different ways to stand out. For instance, I decided to put a fun spin on my introduction by reciting it as a rhyme(mostly to help me remember it) and strike funny poses at the end of the runway.
Honestly, the talent part really stumped me. I thought..I’m not a singer, I’m not a dancer, I can’t juggle so like what the heck am I going to do? But THEN I thought 🤔hmm…I’ve always wanted to be an actress and they don’t call me the human iPod for no reason sooo…I got it💡My idea was born!
I decided to perform Bag Lady and Tyrone by Erykah Badu. Could I actually sing? No lol. But I could do a mean impression and I knew every single lyric so I grabbed my mom’s old night gown, wrapped a scarf around my head and put on a show, and you know what..the crowd actually loved it! I guess all those years of watching VH1 soul videos all day and singing in the mirror finally paid off😅😂.
Sometimes you have to think outside of the box, you know…be creative! Amazingly, at the end of the night I was crowned Miss Black & Gold, while also receiving a book scholarship and the individuality award.
Of course when you’re in a competition you’re competing to win, but for me it was a little deeper. I wanted to prove to myself that I could step outside of my comfort zone and do something I probably wouldn’t have done in the past…because I was “too nervous” or “unsure of myself”. This time I didn’t want to be in the audience..I wanted to take center stage and I’m glad I took that chance.
This post was in no way meant to be taken as a boastful account of accomplishments and accolades, but rather an encouragement for everyone to embrace individuality, follow your own path, and stay true to yourself! If it worked for me and Cardi, it could work for you too!