Valerie Bertinelli shares her a.m. secret to all- day happy

Golden Globe–winning actress, author and celebrity chef Valerie Bertinelli, 60, has been beloved for her radiant smile, warm heart and incredible talent for more than four decades. But despite her success, her journey has been plagued by heartache, loss and self-doubt. Here, she shares her recipe for overcoming

With her welcoming smile, sweet laugh and talent for whipping up delicious recipes, it’s easy to see why Valerie Bertinelli has long held the title of America’s most beloved celebrity. At just 15 years old, Valerie’s authentic spirit and spunk had fans hooked, landing her a breakout role as Barbara Cooper on the hit show One Day at a Time.

“It still warms my heart when people share about what an episode means to them!” Valerie says about her iconic character.

From there, the sky was the limit for Hollywood’s bright young talent, and she helped develop and produce TV movies while also starring in numerous hit series, including Touched by an Angel and, more recently, Hot in Cleveland.

Alongside her acting career, Valerie even developed a successful second act as an Emmy-winning chef on her Food Network show, Valerie’s Home Cooking. But as her professional life soared, Valerie has also faced painful heartache, including the loss of both parents, divorce from her first husband and a lifelong battle with her weight that has made her passion for cooking delicious meals a difficult balancing act.

“My war with the scale has been a journey,” Valerie shares with Woman’s World. “But I’ve realized it’s less about the number and more about being kind to myself and living my life. At 60, I’m still trying to find who I am, but instead of focusing on my dress size, I celebrate me and every body shape!”

Here, her tips for loving the true you, staying healthy and celebrating life while looking— and feeling— great!