Meet Shay Fox

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Shay Fox. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Shay , so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.

I adopted the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. This perspective encouraged me to embrace challenges, learn from criticism, and persist in the face of setbacks. Recognizing that effort leads to improvement helped me build resilience and confidence. I became aware of my inner critic and actively worked to reframe negative thoughts. Instead of thinking, “I’m not good enough,” I reminded myself of my strengths and past successes. This practice of positive self-talk gradually shifted my mindset and improved my self-esteem. I intentionally spent time with people who uplifted and supported me. Positive relationships provided encouragement and reinforced my self-worth. Conversely, I distanced myself from individuals who were consistently negative or critical, as their influence could undermine my confidence. I made it a habit to acknowledge and celebrate my accomplishments, no matter how small. This practice helped me recognize my progress and reinforced a positive self-image. By focusing on my successes, I cultivated a sense of pride and confidence in my abilities. Through these intentional practices, I developed a stronger sense of confidence and self-esteem. It’s important to remember that building these qualities is a continuous journey, and it’s okay to seek support when needed.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

Originally hailing from Dallas, Texas, I have become a beloved figure in Seattle’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community, known for my quick wit, engaging stage presence, and ability to turn any event into a celebration. From dazzling performances to charismatic hosting, my versatility and magnetic energy have made me a sought-after talent in the Pacific Northwest.

My journey into drag began in the heart of Dallas, where I was inspired by the bold personalities and fierce performances I witnessed in the city’s thriving drag scene. After moving to Seattle, I quickly established myself as a fixture in the local entertainment landscape, becoming renowned for my electrifying performances and my flair for comedy. Whether performing high-energy lip-syncs, showcasing my unique sense of humor, or delivering moving ballads, I have an uncanny ability to captivate any audience.

Beyond my exceptional performance skills, I has thrived in hosting various events, proving myself to be one of Seattle’s top drag MCs. My ability to keep the energy high and the crowd engaged has made me a favorite for hosting karaoke nights, bingo games, and drag shows alike. My warmth, humor, and quick comebacks have made me an expert at creating an inclusive, fun atmosphere for people from all walks of life, ensuring that every event I hosts is unforgettable.

Over the years, I has built a loyal following and developed a reputation for professionalism, creativity, and commitment to excellence. I have graced the stages of some of Seattle’s most iconic venues, and my dynamic presence has earned me countless fans, both locally and beyond. Whether I’m dazzling in a glamorous gown or keeping the laughs rolling as a host, I continue to shine brightly as one of Seattle’s most beloved drag queens.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

1. Self-Compassion
Learning to treat myself with the same kindness and understanding that I offer to others has been transformative. Self-compassion involves acknowledging my imperfections without harsh judgment, recognizing that mistakes are part of the human experience. This mindset shift has allowed me to embrace challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than as reflections of my worth.

Advice: Practice self-compassion by replacing self-critical thoughts with supportive affirmations. When faced with difficulties, remind yourself that it’s okay to be imperfect and that you’re worthy of kindness and understanding.

2. Positive Self-Talk
The way I speak to myself significantly influences my self-esteem. Replacing negative self-talk with positive affirmations has helped reframe my mindset, fostering a more confident and resilient self-image. For instance, shifting from “I’m not good enough” to “I’m capable and growing” has been empowering.

Advice: Monitor your inner dialogue and consciously replace self-defeating thoughts with affirmations that reinforce your strengths and potential. Regular practice can gradually reshape your self-perception.

3. Continuous Learning and Skill Development
Engaging in continuous learning has been crucial in building my competence and confidence. Whether through formal education, workshops, or self-study, acquiring new skills has not only enhanced my abilities but also reinforced my belief in my capacity to grow and succeed.

Advice: Identify areas of interest or skills you wish to develop and seek out resources to learn more. Start with manageable steps, such as online courses or reading materials, and celebrate your progress along the way.

Cultivating self-compassion, engaging in positive self-talk, and committing to continuous learning have been pivotal in my journey toward greater confidence and self-esteem. For those beginning this path, embracing these practices with patience and consistency can lead to meaningful personal growth.

We’ve all got limited resources, time, energy, focus etc – so if you had to choose between going all in on your strengths or working on areas where you aren’t as strong, what would you choose?

Operating in your “zone of genius” leads to increased productivity, confidence, and a sense of purpose. In my early career, I made the mistake of focusing too much on areas where I wasn’t naturally strong, thinking that improvement in these areas would lead to success. However, this approach often left me feeling drained and unfulfilled. It wasn’t until I shifted my focus to areas where I excelled and felt energized that I began to see meaningful progress and satisfaction. While it’s important to address weaknesses that hinder your progress, investing in and developing your strengths can lead to greater fulfillment, confidence, and success. By leveraging what you do best, you can create a more impactful and satisfying personal and professional life.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

PC: Shay Fox
TPAT Productions, LLC

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