If you were anything like us, your weekday nights revolved around being glued to the TV watching MAFS – no doubt yelling at Davina and Dean. This week we interview the beautiful Tracey Jewel on how she combats staying true to herself, cyber bullies and knowing your self worth.
Who is Tracey Jewel?
I think I’m a lot of different roles which is why women probably related to me on MAFS! I’m a mum, a writer, a gym junkie, A tanorexic lol, a good friend, a self development obsessor, a bit of a nerd, an ex wife x2, a partner, a domestic violence survivor and a charity ambassador.
I feel like I’ve experienced a lot in my life to date and there’s power in sharing your voice with others in the hope to make a positive impact in the world.
What made you want to be involved in MAFS?
I was giving up hope in my second happily ever after. My ex husband moved and remarried quickly and with a few failed relationships under my belt I thought why not hand my love life over to the experts!
Did having confidence in yourself play a big role in getting involved in reality TV and being an author?
You need to have a strong sense of who you are to do it that’s for sure. It makes you stronger and a massive exponential growth curve. I want to be the best person I can be and doing tv and writing books definitely pushes me to grow and develop as a person.
What does confidence mean to you and how do you approach this in your everyday life?
Confidence comes down to intention. I’m not perfect and I make mistakes but underneath it all I’m a good person. I believe in the best in myself and others and this is where my inner confidence comes from, knowing myself and owning my truth.
I also think taking care of yourself on the outside helps inner confidence as well. I’m not shy about a bit of Botox, getting my hair and nails done and I love to dress up as well as keeping fit.
What empowers you as a woman?
For me as cheesy as this sounds it’s empowering others. If I’m making a positive difference, I feel empowered. When you gossip and bring others down it’s disempowering. You’re giving your power away when you engage in negative talk. I discuss this in my book This Goddess Means Business which is all about minding your own business first and foremost – that’s empowerment
What knocks your confidence down and how do you deal with that?
It’s hard not to be affected sometimes of other people’s opinions of you – especially cyber bullying and trolling. A natural reaction is going into defensive, attaching or just shutting down. When this happens I just need to come back to me, get grounded and own my own truth.
How has confidence helped you with to step out of your comfort zone?
I start with the end in mind. I have a clear vision for my life and I keep focused on the end game when I’m not feeling the best. Especially with nerves!
What advice would you give our customers about self confidence and believing in themselves, embracing themselves for who they really are?
It’s ok to be exactly who you are.. and when you own this you are giving power to those around you to be themselves too. It’s a ripple effect! And confidence grows from there. Find your tribe.
What piece of clothing makes you feel confident to take on the world?
I love a great pencil skirt – it makes me feel feminine and confident and is perfect for a day of boardroom meetings or a dinner date!
Do you think your style and the way you dress has evolved as you have become more confident within yourself?
Yes absolutely! In my 20s I dressed very frumpy and conservatively. Now I have no problem showing a bit of boob and curves! I totally own my body and my look now.
What women inspire you?
Oprah of course! I look up to all kinds of women especially Malala and Rosie Batty as well as Gabrielle Bernstein and Marie Forleo. It’s empowering these women who are able to share their personal stories to better the world.
What’s your favourite piece out of The Borrowed Collective and why?
I love this Mattea Slip Dress! A little bit skin and boob what a sexy dress to dress up in for a special event!
You can join us (and have a little treat from The Borrowed Collective in your goodie bag) at Traceys new book launch in June in Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch.