The moment that really drove it home for me was when I received a wedding invitation from my childhood best friend a few years ago. Many of my other friends were already married. I, on the other hand, was notoriously single. The “+1” on the invitation glared at me. I was clearly expected to bring a date. Oh my God! Is this for real? I remember thinking. Isn’t just being me good enough, without a man standing beside me everywhere I go?

In fact, I thought the party would be way more fun that way! So I called up my best friend and RSVP’ed for one. Yup, just me, myself and I.

Despite what my parents think, I have chosen career over marriage — and I am pretty happy with that decision. I’ll admit there have been times when I wondered if I made the right choice. Then I realize it’s just outside pressure creeping in. I have learned to be in a happy relationship with myself for now. 

I go shopping, run errands, and even eat lunch at restaurants solo sometimes.

I’ve learned to embrace being me. It has been awesome to give myself priority, not just in my professional life, but for my physical and emotional health as well. I’ve even made Fridays a special day on my calendar to give myself a little #MeTime, and this time is not negotiable. I use this time to pamper myself, whether it is a skincare routine or yoga. I find personal challenges like going for a hike or learning to cook a fun new recipe rewarding, too.

My inspiration for this came when I was flipping through a magazine and read this gem: 

I would love it if more women believed that there are so many things in life that you are not meant to share with anyone. At least not just yet.”

Being a strong, confident woman in today’s world isn’t always easy. There is a lot of pressure to have it all, and look good doing it! Zue Botanicals wants to help you embrace your inner confidence, just like Lara.

Little steps like a facial, bubble bath, or a pedicure can train your brain to value yourself the way you deserve. And when you feel positive about yourself, that makes you unstoppable!  

We are on a mission to help women look and feel beautiful from the inside out. That’s why we are working on something really special…a soon-to-be-released face mask that is among our best ever. It’s a small way to help you relieve stress and remind yourself to take that special for YOU.