BAD HAIR DAY

We were planning a big family dinner—one of those once-a-year events where everyone gathers and the planning takes on a life of its own. The WhatsApp messages start flying two weeks out:

“What can I bring?”

“What time do you want us?”

“Janine has a new boyfriend. Is he invited?”

“Bob is now lactose intolerant. Don’t go to any extra effort—just thought you should know.”

( names have been changed to protect the innocent )

The excitement builds and dips in equal measure.

And while everyone thinks a family meal is all about the food, those of us hosting know the truth: it’s also a carefully choreographed performance. I want the evening to look effortless and casual, yet I spend hours polishing the silver, ironing the tablecloth, and making sure the glassware matches down the length of the table. I trial-bake the cake a week ahead (my children give feedback with all the gentleness of MasterChef judges). I test a new slow-cooked lamb recipe. Only to be told it’s a hard NO by my pint-sized critics. Even the dog has a grooming appointment. Everyone,and everything,must look their best.

And that’s where it all went sideways.

When I collected the dog, I barely recognised him. My fluffy pomapoo had been transformed into something resembling a cross between a cartoon character and a military recruit..short back and sides, ready for duty. We tried not to laugh, but he strutted out of the salon like he’d just won “Best in Show.” He felt lighter, cleaner, and completely unconcerned that he looked nothing like the pooch I dropped off three hours earlier.

There’s a lesson in that little haircut.

At the gym, I see people constantly comparing themselves—to their younger selves, to friends, to strangers lifting heavier weights. But that’s all baloney (yes, I’m bringing that word back). What really matters isn’t how we measure up to anyone else, but how we feel and how we improve on our own last effort.

Instead of asking, “What are other people my age lifting?” ask, “How does this lift feel for me? Is my form solid? Am I pushing myself safely? Am I getting stronger compared to last week?” If the answer is yes, you’ve already won. Progress is personal.

And just like my freshly shorn pup, we should leave each session feeling lighter and proud, even if the outside doesn’t match someone else’s idea of perfect. Family dinners, workouts, even dog haircuts: they’re all better when we stop comparing and focus on what makes us feel good.

After all, a meal tastes better, a lift feels stronger, and a haircut (good or bad) looks brighter when you’re simply owning your version of the night.

BEFORE ⬇️

AFTER ⬇️