Have you ever had the feeling that you’re playing the role of backup singer in your own life? If you’re like most of us, you’ve sometimes wished that you could be the diva instead . . . admired, adored and always center stage.
So what’s stopping you from being the star of your own life? Believe it or not, the path to everyday stardom isn’t all that hard to find. By making a few changes in the way you think about your life and the way you treat yourself, you can step out of the shadows and into the spotlight.
Know what you want—and go get it. What do Adele, Beyoncé, Paul McCartney and Stephen Marley all have in common? Besides being Grammy Award winners, all of these performers have a clear vision of where their lives are going. If you’re not sure where you’re headed in your career or your personal life, take the time to find out. Start a blog to record your goals and track your progress. Make an appointment with a life coach, or share your aspirations with a close friend. Sign up for an online class or volunteer for a local charity to explore new career paths.
As a star performer, it’s easy to get a reputation for being single-minded and demanding. But you have to give the divas of the world credit for knowing what they want and for not being afraid to reach for it.
Look the part. Divas don’t look dazzling every second of the day, but they all have a style that’s uniquely their own. Whether your personal style is cutting-edge and outrageous, like Lady Gaga, or classy and down-to-earth, like Allison Krauss, your look should always let others know that you’re happy with who you are. If the clothes in your closet make you feel like you’re disappearing into the crowd, dress them up with new accessories or invest in a few outfits that reflect your true persona. Don’t be afraid to push the envelope by coloring your hair or exploring cosmetic surgery.
Looking like a star isn’t just about wearing fabulous clothes and accessories; it’s about taking great care of your body. You can’t be a diva if you’re tired, dehydrated and constantly frazzled. When you’re eating nutritious foods, working out and pampering yourself with massages and spa treatments, you’ll look and feel like a true star.
Share the spotlight. As a diva, you get to bask in the admiration of your fans 24/7. But the spotlight will be much warmer if you invite others to join you there. Let your supporters know how much you love and appreciate them. Above all, never let sour grapes taint your star status (remember Kanye West’s mortifying rant about Taylor Swift at the MTV Music Awards)?
Generosity and gratitude are the hallmarks of a true star. Whether you’re hosting a party to celebrate a friend’s achievements or acting as a mentor to a teen who’s following your path, you’ll find that there’s nothing more rewarding about stardom than being able to share the wealth with others.