I remember a time when I could put on a little extra makeup to get that holiday glow. But, at 55, it takes a lot more and it definitely doesn’t start just before the event.

Let’s face it ladies, when you hit midlife, it takes a lot more time and effort to look and feel our best.

In my 20’s and 30’s, I barely wore sunscreen and paid little attention to my skincare routine. I was busy investing in my career and family. I also could get by with little sleep, little make-up, little exercise, and little regard to what I ate and still look halfway decent. Youth can really make up for a lot of sins.

The relationship that you have with yourself sets the tone for every other relationship in your life.

So, this month, I am taking a step back and offering you a quick and easy way to shift the cycle.

When you are being hyper-critical of yourself, run your thoughts through the “best friend filter” by asking yourself, “would I say this to my best friend?”

And…If you wouldn’t say it to your best friend, then you shouldn’t be saying it to yourself…period.