45, Full Beam
If I could go back and whisper something to my younger self it would be this: never dim your light for anyone. Not to fit in, not to keep the peace, not because you think you’re “too much.” Shine brightly – because that’s what makes you, you.
When I was younger, I thought getting older meant fading into the background. Wrinkles, responsibility, the slow shuffle into invisibility. But here’s the truth – the older I get, the more I realise it’s the opposite. Every year you grow into yourself a little more. You care less about pleasing everyone else and more about living fully, loudly, unapologetically.
At 45, I’ve started chapters I never imagined. Proof it’s never too late to reinvent yourself, belly-laugh at your own chaos, and keep surprising people (including yourself). Oh and new hair, because I love it!! So here’s to 45: older, wiser, braver… and still shining brightly. Because Mama still got it and you all have too ✨
A Dream Come True
Talking of new dreams coming true… last week I had the honour of walking the London Fashion Week runway. Even better, it was for the brilliant Oxfam x Vinted collaboration – celebrating reusable, pre-loved fashion and supporting a fantastic charity. It felt amazing, and exactly the confidence boost I needed.
The 45 & Thriving Wellbeing Edit
A 5-Minute Morning “Glow-Up” (no products needed)
Put down your morning scroll and replace it with this super easy wake-up routine:
- One tall glass of water.
- Two deep shoulder rolls + one full-body stretch.
- Three things you’re grateful for (say them out loud).
- Four gentle breaths in through the nose, long out through the mouth.
- Five minutes outside, face to the light (yes, even if it’s cloudy).
New Hair, Don’t Care
I’m trying to make perimenopause or ‘cougar puberty’ a new spring in my life. An invitation to embrace change and step into a new chapter. And the haircut? It’s a new crown, a symbol of the confidence and beauty that come with owning every stage of my journey. If you feel that you need a change, just go for it – it’ll feel great! Massive thanks to @sarah.haircolourist for colour and @jakewanstall for the cut at @larrykinglondon @larrykinghair.
Boundaries You Can Borrow
I know it’s so hard to do, but as the years go by this is coming more naturally to me, as it physically and mentally isn’t possible to say yes to everything. You’ll be surprised how good it feels!
- “I can’t this time, but thank you for thinking of me.”
- “That doesn’t work for me – here’s what does.”
- “I’ll get back to you tomorrow.” (Buy yourself space.)
Beauty, Simplified
Fresh, glowing skin doesn’t need to take time and effort. Get ready with me for a shoot and see my basic morning routine. Unless I’m going somewhere special, this is enough for that natural look.
Joy Audit
Make a list of three things that feel light for example text a friend, solo coffee, read a chapter of your book and do them before you tackle something heavy – I find this really helpful if I get a brain block when writing or making content (or I have to do admin I’ve been putting off forever). If you’ve not read it yet and you need a giggle and reset, give my book a try…
Move the Way You’ll Actually Do
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Thanks so much for your support – Louise x
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