RuPaul, the ultimate epitome of self-assurance, generously shares his insights on cultivating self-love in the latest edition of Us Weekly.

Before gracing stages as the iconic host of RuPaul's Drag Race, the 62-year-old trailblazer recalls his humble beginnings and the source of his unwavering confidence. "Whenever I go on stage, I remind myself that I'm stepping into Mama's living room," confides RuPaul exclusively to Us. "Performing for my mom taught me to overcome nerves and disregard what others might say about me. Their opinions are simply irrelevant."

While the Emmy-winning sensation reigns as the world's most prominent drag queen today, his journey wasn't always paved with fame. As a go-go dancer in 1990s New York City, he frequented venues like the Pyramid Club, a haven for eccentric souls seeking inspiration. RuPaul, born RuPaul Charles in California, reminisces about those days, when Chelsea Piers served as his makeshift home and the Pyramid's basement housed his meager possessions.

Since those early struggles, the AJ and Queen star has mastered the art of resilience. "Life can be challenging; that's unavoidable. But knowledge is your greatest weapon," RuPaul advises his younger self. "Never rely on anyone else for validation and embrace the things you desire, disregarding others' judgments."

RuPaul's Drag Race, which debuted in 2009, has birthed an array of spinoffs, including RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars and RuPaul's Secret Celebrity Drag Race, captivating audiences worldwide. From Belgium to Thailand, Sweden to Spain, Canada to the United Kingdom, the show's global dominance surprises some but not RuPaul himself. "I always envisioned myself as a star with my own show," he shares with Us, expressing profound happiness at the series' remarkable success.

As a media mogul, RuPaul recognizes the significant evolution of drag over the past two decades. He celebrates its newfound accessibility, heralding the empowering message that we are all born naked, and everything else is our unique form of self-expression—the essence of drag.

RuPaul's unwavering self-assurance, forged through personal struggles and triumphs, serves as an inspiration to embrace our authentic selves and rise above external judgment. In a world yearning for self-love, his wisdom resonates deeply, empowering individuals to celebrate their true identities without fear or inhibition.