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- Welcome to Elegance.
Elegance is like a beautifully packaged gift; only those who untie it fully experience it.
Lagos, Nigeria, Summer 1996
I was a teenager and had just been nominated as the Head Girl of my secondary school (or high school). It was an exciting and unbelievable moment for me, as being selected as the head girl of one of Nigeria's prestigious federal government schools was no small feat. To this day, becoming a Head Girl (again) remains one of the notable moments of my life.
If you are unfamiliar with them, a head girl or head boy is the most senior student leadership role (often elected by staff and students) in countries where the British education system is adopted.
As it was my school's practice each summer, newly elected student prefects (or leaders) were sent to a week-long training at the Citizenship and Leadership Training Center in Sea School, Apapa, Lagos. From morning workouts and endurance walks to obstacle courses and variety shows, this was the closest experience to the Survivor TV series a young student could get. (Sigh!)
One afternoon, towards the end of the program, I experienced what I now refer to as a defining moment of Elegance. It's when you consciously choose to learn, grow and live a meaningful and elegant life despite everything around you.
While awaiting our camp instructors to arrive and commence the next item on the agenda, I made a few observations. As you'll likely imagine, the atmosphere tolled with loud chatter and banter for a room with no instructors. There were even a few restless boys sliding in and out of windows. It was full-fledged teenage chaos.
However, as I sat quietly in the second row of the assembly hall, I couldn't help but notice two girls from another federal school sitting right in front of me. There was a unique air about them. Their behavior was a far cry from the occurrences in the room. They were positively poised and restrained. Each sat up with their back straight and chin radiantly leveled to the ground. From their posture, one would think an instructor was present. Not once did they engage in the chaos spread across the room. When the camp instructors arrived, these two girls did not have to straighten up. They were prepared and ready. They were young students but well-mannered. They were distinguished and ELEGANT.
These two girls made such an unforgettable impression on me. Following the meeting, I inquired who they were and reached out to engage them. I longed to know what they knew that the rest of the students did not. I longed to emulate the greatness I had just experienced. I left their presence, dreaming of becoming the same.
Elegance is powerful. It is like fresh air. You don't necessarily see it, but you appreciate it when you experience it.
Today, I wish to inspire your (own) defining moment of Elegance. Allow me to leave with you some key benefits of Elegance:
12 Key Benefits of Elegance
Remarkable Distinction from your peers and those around you
Elevated Respect from your peers and those around you
Mental and Physical Wellness from your personal growth and self-awareness
Improved Self-Esteem and Confidence
Improved Communication Skills
Enhanced Personal Organization
Increased Personal Value and Net Worth
Expanded Network and Opportunities
Distinguished Personal Brand
Accelerated Career or Business
Meaningful Relationships
Advanced Knowledge and Competence
Choosing to live elegantly has a ripple effect. It inspires others, creates a more pleasant environment, and contributes to a more elegant world. Imagine the impact we could make if we all chose to live with Elegance.
Experiencing those two young ladies was an appointment for my future purpose and destiny. They were like angels sent to me to show me what is possible and to prepare me for my future purpose—first, creating NOTIQ—a fashionable and sustainable lifestyle brand that inspires elegant living with meaningful work—and second, writing a weekly publication on the life-transforming rewards of elegance that is now officially housed in the School of Elegance.
I know Elegance won't solve all our problems or challenges. However, the gift of Elegance will help us navigate them and emerge stronger.
If you dream of some level of success, if you dream of becoming more and living a more meaningful and fulfilling life, if you wish to stand out at work, school, business, or life, I hope this hour will be your Defining Moment of Elegance: when you consciously choose to elevate your personal and professional value.
Starting now, I hope you'll say with me:
From this moment, I'll choose a meaningful and elegant life.
From this moment, I'll unwrap the gift of Elegance and learn more.
From this moment, I'll share my Elegance with those around me.
Until the next post, welcome to the School of Elegance!
Warmly,
Lady VJ
Founder & Publisher, SchoolofElegance.com
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