Debra Messing looks absolutely vibrant on the cover of Shape's January issue, and why shouldn't she have that radiant smile? The actress's outlook on life is positive and she hopes that 2009 will be her healthiest year yet, and it seems this beautiful redhead is more than capable of accomplishing her personal goals. I've always been a fan of the funny actress, but developed a new sense of appreciation for Debra after learning her attitude toward the opinion of others.

Regarding her post-pregnancy weight, she told Shape, "It was written about in the tabloids a lot. On one page it showed all the actresses who got skinny in six weeks or less, and on the other page was me!" This external criticism didn't get her too down though, and after briefly working out with a trainer she realized that she needed to figure out a routine that fit her lifestyle, not the expectations of others.

To see how she lost the 42 pounds she gained during her pregnancy, read more.

Debra said, "[The personal trainer] helped me drop the first few pounds, but I was exhausted! I couldn't work out three hours a day and do my job as a mother and an actress. So I took the pressure off: I cut back on seeing the trainer but started eating healthier. Ultimately I'm very proud of how I dropped the weight because I think it was the healthy approach. I've finally taken ownership of my body."

Nice to hear that not every Hollywood mama loses her baby weight before her baby begins to teethe!