How to be a Boss Babe 101

I often get asked how I juggle a full time job, and a part time job all at once. For those who are new to my profile, I actually work a full time job at Texas A&M University Kingsville as a Marketing Program Assistant for the Engineering department. I also have a part time job as a waitress at Nucky's Cocktail Bar where I get around 3 or 4 shifts a week. When thinking about how exactly I juggle this, the first answer that comes to mind is "lots of coffee". But realistically, that is just 1/4 of the answer. So much plays into it such as my strong support system who encourage and support my decision to work two jobs, my amazing co workers turned best friends who make me enjoy going to work, and knowing that I am working towards a better future for myself with 2 streams of income. It truly takes a village. Behind every strong woman is her village of individuals who got her there. I also love the idea of being a "Boss Babe" and I admire women who bring the term boss babe to life by being hard workers, shattering glass ceilings, having goals and crushing them, dress the part, and inspire those around them.

We've all heard that quote "be the woman you would look up to". And it's more than likely that the woman you look up to is a boss babe, right?

But how do you get to be a boss babe? How do you get to being the woman you would look up to? Well I have some tips and pointers for you. Being in the pageant industry and constantly surrounding myself with influential and powerful women, I have taken some notes for myself as I continue to work on being a boss babe.

1. Dress the part!

• When you look good, you feel good. It's true. Pinterest some outfits that compliment your style and work on your wardrobe. Strive to be the best dressed in the room.

2. Wake up early!

• Getting a good head start sets the tone for the rest of the day. Wake up early, put some music on, read your favorite book, hear a podcast, or go for a jog and set that tone for your day.

3. Get Involved!

• How do you think boss babes get their name out there? They get involved and immerse themselves in opportunities that get presented to them or they go out and look for them. Whether its volunteer work, joining staff council, organizations, clubs, etc. Throw yourself into different things and meet new people you can connect with and share your passions with.

4. Be Passionate!

• Find what you are passionate about. Whether its an activity, a charity, a non profit, volunteer work, an organization, or a social issue and talk about it. Be an advocate for them. It's so beautiful to see someone speak about what their passionate about and bring awareness to the subject and it also opens up other's eyes to that topic and who knows, they may find a passion or calling to it as well.

5. Learn when to say no!

• How do you expect to be the best version of yourself and be someone others look up to, when you can't even take care of yourself? Learn to only say yes to things that you can handle and do your best to not over book yourself or put more on your plate to where you can't give each person/activity your full attention and your best self. No one looks up to someone who runs themselves dry.

7. Put your best foot forward!

• A positive attitude and good outlook on life, is the best way to navigate your journey. Even when you are not in the mood, don't show it. Take a second to reflect and acknowledge your feelings, then take a deep breathe, count your blessings, and put a smile on your face, get through work, the event, or just the day. It's a bad moment, not a bad day, and definitely not a bad life. People will remember you by how you treated them and how you acted/carried yourself. Always make sure it's the best version of you and your best attitude.

8. Remain neutral!

• We are each entitled to our own opinions, but in some cases, it is best to remain neutral whether it is with friends drama, work issues, controversial topics, or politics. Find a common ground with others and touch on it in a neutral way and hear them out. All really others want, is to be heard and listened to. Being to vocal on the topics listed above, can sometimes harm you because often times, people associate your opinion with who you are a person and it can break or make you.

9. Know your worth!

• Hold yourself to a high standard and don't settle. A woman who knows her worth and what she is capable of, is dangerous and unstoppable. Let others meet you at your standards. You have to know what you stand for, who you are, and what your goals are in order for you to be confident in yourself.

10. Don't get complacent!

• Always strive to climb up the ladder and move up whether it is in a work position or moving cities or seizing opportunities! Don't be afraid to take those leap because taking leadership positions or accepting opportunities that are bigger than your previous, means more networking opportunities and new, powerful and influential individuals you get to meet and build connections with.

11. Build a network!

• Make new contacts! Go and introduce yourself to people who can later help you in life and be a reference! I like to live by the 6x6 rule. You should always know the individuals 6 feet in front of you and 6 feet behind you and this can be done whether in line somewhere or socializing. Show these people who you are. Have them follow you on LinkedIn or social media outlets. The more you make yourself known, the more others will be curious and want to know who you are.

xoxo, Tess