In my hectic life as a freelance writer and mother to two little ones—a 2½-year-old son and a 10-month-old daughter—I may struggle to find time for a shower or ever wear those towering heels collecting dust in my closet. However, I always make it a priority to apply a swipe of lipstick each day.
Given that I work from home, there are numerous days when my husband is the only adult I interact with. If it weren’t for my dog, I might not step outside at all during the long winter months. Yet, I continue to embrace this small act of self-care.
Lipstick and makeup enhance my appearance, and when I look good, I feel good—it’s as simple as that. It also adds a little allure for my husband, who, while loving me just as I am, appreciates the effort. After all, I expect him to maintain his grooming too.
Wearing lipstick is a nostalgic reminder of my pre-kid days—those times when I could indulge in weekly blowouts, monthly pedicures, and regular hair touch-ups. Now, my beauty budget has shifted entirely to diapers and childcare, but I can still take a moment for lipstick.
Transitioning from summer’s coral lip balms to fall’s rich berry mattes keeps me feeling connected to the world outside, even as my wardrobe falls out of sync with current trends. This simple act makes me feel like I’m still aware of the changing seasons.
As mothers, we often prioritize our children’s needs over our own. We dress them, feed them breakfast, and pack their lunches before we even sip our coffee. For family photos, we choose those rare moments when the kids are smiling, even if we look half-asleep. We even sacrifice the last bite of dessert for them.
Applying lipstick is my personal ritual. Unscrewing the cap, twisting up the bullet, and applying color is a quick process that boosts my confidence. It empowers me to tackle the challenges of the day, whether it’s cleaning up spills or changing countless diapers.
Some may perceive this as vanity, but I argue that a little vanity is beneficial. I apply sunscreen daily—not just to prevent skin damage but to maintain youthful skin. I also try to eat healthily and fit in exercise, even if it means dancing with my kids. This not only reduces my risk of illness but also helps me fit into my pre-pregnancy clothes sooner.
Lipstick serves as a reminder of who I was and who I aspire to become once these chaotic years of diaper changes and spit-up are behind me. It’s a small yet significant source of sanity in my day-to-day life.
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Summary:
Wearing lipstick every day is a small yet impactful ritual that helps me feel confident and connected to my pre-motherhood self. Amidst the chaos of parenting, it serves as a reminder of self-care and personal identity.