When I hear the phrase “Letting Yourself Go,” I picture a lady that is discouraged, overwhelmed and/or unhappy with her life. Most of us know someone like that, who pays no attention to her appearance at all (maybe we are that person). Inevitably, if she used to be beautiful, people will be extra critical, talking about how she’s “failed.”
I have a relative who this describes perfectly. Growing up, she was slender and athletic and had lots of boyfriends. During her 20’s and 30’s, she lived a wild life and was heavily into drugs and partying. She also moved down South and spent a lot of time sunbathing.
We lost touch and I hadn’t seen or spoken to her for ages. My sister, who is the family yenta, recently had lunch with her. Of course, I begged for a picture and it was shocking! Even though we’re only 3 years apart—I’m 37, she’s 40—she seems so much older. Her hair is totally gray, her complexion was red as a lobster, she’s about 75lbs overweight, and she had on ratty sweats, which made her look at least 50, maybe even 55.
I don’t say this to rag on her or to be mean, but it’s truly sad when a lady just quits on herself like that. Personally, I don’t think it should even be an option.
As we age, it is definitely harder to maintain; believe me, I know. But that’s no excuse to throw in the towel and give up. We can still care about ourselves and look nice, in an age-appropriate way. The ideal hair color, moisturizer, some lipstick and mascara can make a world of difference. Staying at a reasonable weight—not scary skinny or morbidly obese—is important. Wearing clean clothes that fit; wearing shoes that aren’t scuffed; using a cute purse instead of a diaper bag—all of these things matter!
A little bit of vanity is a sign of good health—both physical and mental. As ladies, we need to feel and look attractive for our self esteem. Maybe we can’t fit into our high school jeans anymore, but we can find new ones that fit today, no matter what our current waist size may be.
Carve out 15 minutes every morning, just for yourself. Get ready for the day by putting your best foot forward. Put on a little makeup and perfume, brush your hair, stand up straight, smile, find an outfit you feel comfortable and presentable in, worn with flattering underwear (the right bra is life-changing).
We deserve to feel good about ourselves. Embracing our inner and outer femininity is key. Be the best version of the lady that God has created you to be. It’s not selfish; it’s not superficial, it’s normal. You are worth it!
When my husband was alive, I was focused on my looks. Since I became a widow, it doesn’t matter anymore.
That’s an interesting perspective and one I didn’t even consider. I love hearing from readers who are in a different stage of life. We can all learn so much from each other. I can only imagine how a widow feels, never been there myself. Must be so hard!
The culture has become obsessed with being comfortable to the point of sloppy. I’m sick of seeing pajama pants at Walmart and sweat skirts being worn out to dinner. Dressing up used to be the norm for women. My mother was part of the White Glove generation. She is disgusted by how everyone dresses now.
Loved reading the article. I believe in taking care of yourself.
As women, we give so much time and energy to the family. What little amount is left, we need to completely devote to ourselves. Self Care is so important.