Beyoncé is beautiful on the outside, that's an indisputable fact. But her stunning appearance isn't the only thing that caught the eye of People magazine's editors when they recently chose her as this year's Most Beautiful Woman. Her Character Approved beauty comes from a unique and special place.

The 30-year-old megastar, who has won 16 Grammy awards and counting, said being a mother is what's made her feel the most beautiful. Her new baby with rapper Jay Z, Blue Ivy, has given Beyoncé what she calls, "a sense of purpose on this earth." And we, and People's editors, love seeing how happy she is.

Parenthood seems to have ignited the couple's desire to help other children as well. The twosome recently raised $1 million for underprivileged children by hosting a fundraiser for Jay Z's Shawn Carter Foundation.

Like every year, there was some serious competition for the People title. Royal Kate Middleton, Michelle Williams, and Sofia Vergara were among several that made the short list, all very deserving. But we're glad this gushing mom, with all she's accomplished, takes the most pride in her tiny little arrival.

[Image: Jean-Baptiste Mondino via People.com]