My Red Lip Era

Many years ago, I was intimidated by a lipstick.

Specifically, red.

But I knew I wanted to wear it.

A colleague at the time encouraged me to find my perfect red, wisely saying,
"There’s a red lip shade for everyone."

It didn’t exactly give me courage, but it did spark my curiosity.

So, I started looking.

Bought the lipstick before I felt brave enough to wear it.
Because that’s how transformation often works, isn’t it?
We make the choice before we feel fully ready.

I thought about it.
Tentatively tried it out.
And eventually, started wearing it.

Then something funny happened along the way; I started to become known for it.

I now constantly get asked what shade I wear, what brand it is, how they can get the same look, how long it says on.

And if I turn up without it now, people ask where it’s gone.

People are obsessed with the red lip.

(One of my favourite teams even gave me the best send-off ever at my leaving drinks, by adopting a red lip themselves as a tribute to my signature move. What a legacy!)

My red lip isn’t just about style however;

It’s about my version of quiet power.
It’s about taking up space in my way.
Speaking my truth but not needing to be the loudest voice in the room.
Conjuring my own brand of magic, with alchemy but not apology.

Doing work that feels 100% like mine.

My red lip era is about visibility on my terms.

Not waiting for permission to be powerful and kind, intuitive and strategic, soulful and successful.

It’s my brand of magic. Done my way.

So, here’s your nudge for the weekend:

What’s your red lip move?

The thing you’ve bought, chosen, or quietly claimed, before you felt ready.

Maybe it’s time to wear it out into the world?