Why women primp - an age old question that really seems to have no answer. There is something innate in us that makes us want to look pretty, be attractive. Although we may not admit it, we all do it. That's why the cosmetic and beauty care industry is one of the largest in the world.
Is it right or wrong? There is no correct answer to that question. I think that what is important is why we do it. Waht are our motivations to have the perfect haircut, impeccable makeup, pedicures, manicures, waxing of all different types and at least a little bit of a tan? This line of questions ran through my mind as my legs are being twisted into different positions to allow my waxer access. Why do we do this? I will admit, I am a primper. I have my favorite salon/spa for the great haircut and color (thanks Meredith!), manicurist, pedicurist, esthetician for my facials and waxing. My favorite cosmetics (MAC) and hair products (Dirt by Jonathan Antin). I don't consider myself a fanatic and my bathroom is not overflowing, but I do enjoy feeling good because I look good.
So what are my motivations? Probably the same as any other woman. We like other people to see us as attractive. It allows us to present the image we have of ourselves, or more accurately the image we would like to have, to the rest of the world. We do it for lovers and husbands. Because we need to be the mom that looks the best on the soccer sidelines, because we think our appearance is a factor in our success in the workplace. And for the best reason of all, to make ourselves feel good.
So go ahead girls, there is nothing wrong with being a primper, as long we we are not expecting the results to change our lives and are not willing to go to extremes (read, bathroom full of products & cosmetics) hoping to create those changes.
I like that I can put on a little mascara and a smile and feel comfortable going out in public. But, I also really like the way I feel when I pull out the hair product, take a little time to add the blush and eyeshadow to the mascara, when I am shaved, waxed, manicured and pedicured. (There is something about looking down at pretty red toes that can just make you smile.) Combine that with some pretty underwear or lingerie and
So, just for me, I will continue to do so. My toes and nails will be painted, there will be at least mascara on my eyelashes, a little bit of glow to my skin, legs and underarms shaved and wax applied to parts of my body that only a special someone will ever get to see. Add a big smile to all of that and it's a perfect package.
women
Do we just work or do we “work”
Have you taken any time to stop and really think about your job? What you do and why you do it? How did you end up doing it? How do you feel about it?
The story of my career is pretty simple. I moved away from home (Texas) to Philly for a man I met in college. I was looking for just about any job to pay our bills. His father was in the insurance industry and knew someone who had a job for me. So, here I am 20+ years later in the same industry doing something that I never imagined I would be doing. The funny thing is that I sort of like it and I'm pretty good at it.
So to answer my own questions – yes, I think about my job often. I weigh the pros and cons of continuing to do what I do. I could have a comfortable career, making a decent living, doing something that I am pretty good at, but that is not overly challenging. Most days it is an ok job to do, some days I can't wait to quit. But that is no different than anyone else.
Or do I take a leap, jump out into the unknown and do what my heart really desires – start my own business. Be my own boss, build something with my own 2 hands, my heart and my passion. It is what I want most, my dream.
So where do I find the courage to make it come true? I have great examples, friends and acquaintances who are independents and freelancers and are making great successes out of their careers. Do I have what they have? I know I have the passion and the drive. What else do I need? So will they let me pick their brains? Can they explain to me what that thing is that gets them past the make and break, the thing that makes them not question whether or not to continue.
I know how hard those decisions and feelings can be. I was with a good friend through the first 3 years of his business. Those times we celebrated each new idea, client, contact or contract and the times when he was so unsure of whether or not he could succeed, he just needed to lean on a friend.
So how do I take that first step, put aside the fear and uncertainty and just take the step? Guess it is going to be make a solid plan, have the passion shut my eyes, step forward and hope that there is not dead air underneath me.