“Glowing up” isn’t all about upgrading your appearance–it includes improving any aspect of your life to feel confident from the inside out. Whether it’s the start of a new season or just time for a reset, this guide breaks down simple and realistic tips that can help you level up your mindset and daily routines. From building healthy habits to making yourself more motivated and comfortable in your skin, here’s how to glow up in a way that’s right for you. 

Mindset First

A true glow-up always starts from within; after all, “the best way to glow up,” said freshman Shresta Andem, “is to love yourself.” 

Boosting your mindset and rethinking your self-perception can go a long way beyond just changing your outward appearance. It’s essential to cultivate a positive attitude towards yourself before focusing on the way you dress or apply makeup.

1. First, shift to a positive inner dialogue. If you’re constantly having thoughts such as: “I’m not good enough” or  “I hate [blank] about myself,” this negativity will hold you back in everything you attempt to do. The way you speak to yourself matters and can impact both your mental and physical health. Try to shift these views and replace them with more positive versions, such as: “I’ve come so far already” or “I can work on this a little more.” 
2. Stop comparing yourself to others. With advancements such as the internet and social media, it’s easy to compare your journey to others, even when they may have different circumstances from yours. However, this will most likely just lead to you overlooking your achievements and being unable to enjoy them. It’s important to keep in mind that there’s no need to compare yourself, as everyone has their situations and strengths, and your progress isn’t any less significant than theirs. 
3. Set short-term goals and celebrate small wins. After all, you don’t need to wait for a full transformation to feel good: glow-ups also include the small milestones you reach before the end. Setting small goals for yourself and aiming to reach them, like just making your bed in the morning or waking up on time, can go a long way.

Daily Habits to Incorporate

Once your mindset is in the right place, the next step in your glow-up is to incorporate some healthy habits into your daily life. Sometimes, the smallest choices you make every day can change the way you feel and carry yourself.

1. Start with hydrating. Hydration is key: it can help with clearer skin, improved digestion, enhanced focus, and increased energy levels. Setting reminders throughout the day or carrying a water bottle with you at all times are just some ways to encourage drinking more water. 
2. A sleep routine is important. Getting at least seven to eight hours of sleep is one of the most important habits to develop. Being well-rested will result in a better attention span and concentration, as well as many other benefits. Try to go to bed early and wake up at the same time in order to boost your mood and achieve more productivity. 
3. Exercise. It’s best to move around a little every day, and not just to keep in shape. The goal isn’t always about burning calories, and you don’t have to do intense workouts or training. Movement can mean taking a walk, stretching, or even dancing in your room: anything that gets your blood flowing.
4. Nourish wisely. You don’t need to cut out everything you love; it’s more about finding a balance in your diet. Make sure to include the five key components to what you eat every day: fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy. If you get hungry between meals, try snacking on healthier options, such as smoothies and trail mix. Of course, you can enjoy a treat once in a while, just eat it in moderation.
5. Manage your screen time. Set boundaries around your digital life. Too much scrolling online, no matter how tempting, can be damaging to your health and drain your energy. Minimize the time you spend on electronic devices, especially before bedtime, and replace it with something creative or relaxing that doesn’t involve screens.

Express It on the Outside

After taking care of your health and mental well-being, the outer part of ‘glowing up’ can become a way of celebrating what you’ve already accomplished on the inside. Focus on reflecting your inner growth in visible ways, or simply elevate your style and routines with subtle changes.

1. Refresh your wardrobe. There’s no need to follow every fashion trend; rather, go through your clothes and build outfits that will make you feel good. Even just trying out a few layering techniques and adding some accessories can instantly level up a look.
2. Update skincare and makeup. Try researching the best skincare products for your skin type and experiment with different makeup looks! Aim for things that will complement your features, and remember to showcase your natural beauty, not hide it. 
3. Show confidence. How you carry yourself is the best indication of your glow-up. Simply using good posture, maintaining eye contact, and wearing a smile can convey a lot about your progress. Having confidence in the way you look and feel will shine through, and others will notice. 

A glow-up isn’t about becoming someone else: it’s about attaining your best self. Ultimately, “the real transformation,” as freshman Ashley Ye stated, “is in how much you’ve grown and accomplished.” Every small step adds up, and wherever you are in your journey, take what works for you and remember: you don’t need to change who you are, just focus on uncovering what’s already there!