The OSCARS: Life Lessons from the Red Carpet

The players may change but the script remains the same - the day after the Academy Awards the media debates about the best and worst dressed celebs as if it were serious news. Don't get me wrong, I love to ogle and critique the fabulous frocks - there were some dresses that I loved and others that completely underwhelmed me.  However, instead of offering my opinion on the best and worst dressed, I want to focus on recognizing those actresses that seem to possess a real zest for life year round, not just during awards season. The journey to stardom shares some similarities with a great trip - they both require good planning and a little bit of luck! Here are a few life lessons from three Oscar winning leading ladies - Penelope Cruz, Jennifer Hudson, and Gwyneth Paltrow.

Penelope Cruz

Brunette bombshell Penelope Cruz journeyed from her native Spain to make her dreams of stardom come true! In 2008 it all paid off when she was awarded an Academy Award for her performance in Vicky Cristina Barcelona. Off-screen Penelope seems to be having the adventure of a lifetime as a new mom with her hubby, fellow OSCAR winner, Javier Bardem.
Lesson: Sometimes you have to change your location to change your luck.

Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson won an Oscar for her first film (Dream Girls) and a Grammy for her eponymous first album - wow. More than just a talented actress and singer, Jennifer Hudson has proven herself to be a survivor. In 2008, Jennifer's mom, brother and nephew were murdered but she did not let grief derail her. 
Lesson: Life has ups and downs but don't give up!

Gwyneth Paltrow

As the daughter of actress Blythe Danner and producer Bruce Paltrow, Gwyneth led a fairly priviliged lfe. Her parents' names may have opened doors but her talent has kept her at the top and won her an OSCAR in 1998 for Shakespeare in Love. Gwyneth has plenty of detractors but I give her points for her fearlessness - she doesn't shy away from trying new things. Perhaps inspired by her hubby Chris Martin of Coldplay, Gwynnie is now embarking on a singing career.
Lesson: Often it is best to ignore your critics!