Confidence: The Best Beauty Enhancer

I turn heads wherever I go. ItÂ’s not because of my rockinÂ’ Shakira bod, entrancing Beyonce eyes, or seductive Angelina smile. In fact, my body is far from star quality, eyes tend to be sleepy from late night baby rocking and smile is gentle and warm.

I may not have their genetics (or team of professional trainers and stylists), but I do have something in common with these glamorous women. And the truth is, itÂ’s really what makes them so appealing.

Confidence.

Self-confidence is the most powerful, attractive beauty enhancer that any woman can have in her bag-of-tricks, and the best part is, it comes from within. The catch? Sometimes it takes some soul-searching and elbow grease (donÂ’t worry, itÂ’s fun) to find and embrace it fully.

The effort is worthwhile, because the payoff effects every part of your life: body, soul, work, home and romance. I wear my confidence like a badge of honor. It took a while to find, but now that itÂ’s here, nothing can hold me back.

So how do you release your inner diva and amplify your natural glow?

My Secrets to Success:

Straighten that spine- If youÂ’re slouching, youÂ’re not sizzling. Women who sit, stand and stride with certainty stick out in a crowd (in a fabulous way). Your back should be straight and chin level with the floor. At first it may feel unnatural, but it wonÂ’t be long before itÂ’s just part of how you move.

Find your fragrance- Scent is memorable, and so are you. Sniff with reckless abandon. You’re looking for a perfume that sings to you. It should embody the essence of your personal idea of feminine and beautiful. Once you find “the one”, enjoy it. I spritz mine on everyday, especially when I’m staying home with my children. It’s an elegant reminder that I’m not just a mom, wife or writer; I’m a woman. Freshen it up throughout the day if you want a boost. It’s invigorating.

Shower and shave- Before you say “Duh”, hear me out. There’s more to it than the quick shower and “Capri shave” (only shaving as far up as is going to show). When you shower, use a soap or gel that you find refreshing. It doesn’t have to be super feminine or expensive, unless that’s what you like. The goal is to walk out of the shower smiling and feeling good. As for the shaving, once a week, shave with a razor so you’re silky smooth. During the week, when finding time for a full bath can be a chore in itself, use an electric razor. Finish the routine with a gentle moisturizing lotion. Satiny skin makes a girl feel vibrant.

Give your nails some love- I love prettying my nails, because it makes me feel girly (even when IÂ’m changing stinky diapers and my shirtÂ’s adorned with mystery goo). Whether you prefer a funky purple, delicate pink or even clear, take the time to jazz them up. Mind your toes, too, sugar. After all, theyÂ’re takinÂ’ you places. Nail care is sweet, because it lasts a while, and it’s just plain womanish.

Treat yourself to something fun- Women, especially mothers, have a hard time buying “extras” for themselves, because they feel guilty. It isn’t going to bring the house down if you recognize that you deserve a little perk here and there. Once per pay period, go out and buy something that is totally self-indulgent and makes you feel good. It doesn’t have to break the bank to give you a lift. If you’ll stress for two weeks over spending 15 bucks on a Poison’s Greatest Hits CD, opt for a $3 tube of sexy lip gloss. Getting a little something just for yourself isn’t selfish, it’s necessary. You’re worth it.

Be kind to strangers- Take a second to hold the door for someone, look her in the eye and smile. If you’re really feeling saucy, throw in a “Good morning.” It’s a courtesy that will not only brighten her day, but make you feel awesome about yourself, too. Helping others is GREAT for the self-esteem, and it’s hard to fade into the woodwork when you‘re spreading your sunshine.

Get physical- Being active is an energy boost and natural attitude enhancer. If you havenÂ’t got the time (or notion) to go for a jog, buckle your little one into his stroller and go for a walk. When youÂ’re at the park, donÂ’t be a sideline mom, get in there and play, too. YouÂ’ll be astonished at how fantastic (and liberating) 5 minutes on a swing feels. Goofing around and getting animated gets the heart a-pumpinÂ’ and stirs up laughter. YouÂ’ll feel G-O-O-D.

Keep a daily journal- Entries donÂ’t have to be any longer than a sentence. The hot tipÂ…it has to be positive. Nothing negative is allowed in this journal. If youÂ’re proud of yourself for turning down the candy bar and crunching through a juicy apple instead, write it down. If the mailman gave you a smile and nod that brought a flutter to your tummy, itÂ’s blurb time. Whenever youÂ’re feeling down, scan through your entries. YouÂ’ll be delighted.

You may wonder how these things will help you find your true, confident self. The answer is simple.

TheyÂ’re all about Y-O-U.

We find ourselves getting stuck in a rut and wondering if thereÂ’s really life out there. Survey says: YES. A happy outer life starts with a rich inner life. Doing these extra little things for yourself makes you feel like a winner, even in the face of deadlines and Gymboree classes.

Make yourself a priority and your confidence will burst right out and sparkle for you. Trust me, everyone will take notice.