The Shed Diaries

Let’s be real. A glow-up in your 40s isn’t about going viral on TikTok or magically morphing into a different person after one green juice and a Pilates class. It’s about coming home to yourself—tired eyes, stretch marks, snack drawer, and all.

This summer, I’m in the thick of my own glow-up journey. Not the kind with filters and fake promises—but the kind where you choose to take care of yourself, again and again, even when it’s not glamorous. Even when it’s hard. Even when brain fog means you walk into a room and forget why you’re there (twice).

Small Wins, Big Shifts

I’ve lost a few pounds 🎉, but the real win is how I feel. I’m more grounded. I feel more together—at least when I remember where I put my keys. My skin’s looking brighter, my energy’s creeping back in, and I’m showing up for myself in ways I haven’t in a long time.

Not every day is perfect. I’ve skipped early wake-ups. I’ve chosen rest over workouts when my body screamed for it—and here’s the shocker—I did it without guilt. That’s huge for me.

The Emma of a year ago would’ve beaten herself up for pressing snooze. But now? I see it for what it is: self-care in a different form.

What My Glow-Up Looks Like Right Now

💧 Hydration over hustle. I’m drinking more water, cutting back on caffeine (a bit…), and noticing how much better my skin and mood feel.

🏋️‍♀️ Beachbody workouts at 4:45am. Most days, I still get it done. But I’ve given myself grace when I need to rest. It’s not all or nothing—it’s consistency over time.

🧴 Skincare I actually enjoy. I’ve simplified my routine and focused on nourishing my dry, perimenopausal skin with products that feel good and work.

🧠 Mindset magic. I’ve been meditating (short and sweet), and setting intentions for my day—even if that intention is just “Don’t lose your sh!t and remember the sun cream.”

👗 Decluttering my wardrobe and my mind. I’m choosing clothes that make me feel good in my body now—not someday. No more “when I lose weight” outfits gathering dust.

Why This Glow-Up Feels Different

Because I’m not doing it to impress anyone.

Not for a reunion. Not for a number on the scale.
I’m doing it because I want to feel strong, calm, and present—for me, for my daughter, for the life I’m creating.

Disney is coming up. A new cabin is on the horizon. Summer is here. And I want to feel good for all of it, not just look good in the photos.

Want to Join Me?

I’ve put together a Glow-Up Checklist with the small daily habits that are helping me stay consistent. Download it below and take what works for you. This isn’t about overhauling your life—it’s about gently stepping into the next version of you, one habit at a time.

📥Download the Glow-Up Checklist PDF

https://thesheddiaries.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/glow-up-checklist-daily-habits.pdf

And if you’re a fellow tired mum trying to find your spark again—trust me, I see you. You’re not alone. You’re doing better than you think.

Let’s glow through what we go through, together.

Love,
Emma x