Is it true? Do we “let ourselves go” after we commit in a relationship? Geez, I’d like to think that’s not the case, but – to be honest – I’m really not sure. Do I drop the kids off at school in my pj’s? Heck ya.  Do I value sleep more than my curling iron? Totally. And does my dog go to her kennel when she sees me with makeup on because she “knows” we’re going out? Sadly, yes.  (It really is pathetic.)

So why don’t I put more effort in to my appearance at home? Why don’t I get up earlier and put on a pretty face and do my hair? I’m a mom and a business owner. I’m busy! My sweet husband tells me I’m beautiful without makeup on – so does that give me extra permission to not wear any?

What happens to us when we settle down? Why do we stop shaving and start drinking on weeknights? After my first marriage, I promised myself that if I ever got married again I would try – genuinely TRY – every day. I wasn’t thinking at the time that maybe that meant putting myself together in an attempt to look good every day, but now I believe that should be included.

If you’re in a relationship and you are feeling like you’re just going through the motions, try this experiment: Every day for the next week, try to look good. Or better, if you’re already doing something with yourself. Ladies: Do your hair. Shave. Makeup every morning. Smell pretty. Cute, flattering clothes. Dress up like you’re going out on a casual movie date night. Men: Shower. Shave. Smell manly (in the eau du toilet and Irish Spring way, not the “I just played basketball with my boys for two hours” way). Dress nice, like you’re going out to brunch with your mother. TRY. The worst thing that could happen – you feel better about yourself. And we all know that feeling good about yourself, feeling confident, also makes you more attractive. The best thing that could happen – your significant other’s head will snap around in a double-take and they’ll feel special. Like you CARE. Sometimes all people need, especially when they feel like they’re just going through the motions of a relationship, is to feel like the other person cares enough to show it.

So set that alarm clock a little earlier tomorrow! Get yourself together. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll notice a difference in yourself AND in everyone else around you.

Lots of Love,

Emily