When it comes to beauty and self-esteem, the best cosmetic is confidence. A confident woman always attracts attention because she exudes an aura of success that makes her irresistible. It’s no wonder why many women are addicted to makeup, but some just don’t get it. They’re not vain about their appearance. They see it as something to enhance themselves with rather than be obsessed over. But when it comes down to it, how well do these ladies know their skin? How much do they care for what lies underneath all those layers of foundation and concealer? If you feel like your makeup routine could use an upgrade, try implementing one of my ultimate glow-ups into your life! You’ll soon realize that even if you look flawless on the outside, imperfections may still exist within. With each step towards achieving inner and outer glow, I promise you will become more beautiful on both ends of the spectrum.
How to glow up
To begin, find your style. There are so many ways to achieve this goal, but here are two simple methods I’ve used to help me transform from everyday chic to party-ready goddess without spending hours in front of the mirror trying out different looks. First off, choose a few colors that appeal to you most: bold red lipstick or soft pastel pink blush. Then select a favorite lip liner color (this should match your eye shadow). This way, whenever you need a quick boost of self-confidence, you can pull out that particular shade of lipstick and instantly change your entire mood.
Now take inventory of yourself. Identify your most significant flaws, such as dark circles under your eyes, blemishes, etc. Choose a natural light coverage product, such as moisturizer, bronzer, primer, or foundation. Apply only where necessary and blend thoroughly. Second, pick a highlighter color that matches your outfit of choice. Highlighting areas of your face which deserve extra attention gives off a very classy yet elegant vibe. In other words, your overall look becomes polished and professional while also creating an illusion of youthful vitality.
Ways to Glow Up Mentally and Physically
Now we come to the main event. Having a “glow” up is having a positive mindset. After all, isn’t it a true sign of success to be happy anyway? Think back to times when you were at your most comfortable. What made you smile? It was either due to good friends, interesting conversation, exciting events, new experiences, or food & drink. Although happiness doesn’t last forever, it does have an opportunity cost. When you’re too busy being content, you miss out on opportunities to enjoy things that make you genuinely excited. And excitement is contagious! So next time you’re feeling low on energy, remember that you can spark up mentally and emotionally through various activities such as reading books, watching movies, listening to music, going hiking, cooking meals together, spending quality time with family members, etc. Also, keep track of your progress in terms of your goals. Seeing tangible results motivates us to continue moving forward until our desired outcomes finally manifest.
Another critical factor in mental health is physical activity. Even though exercise has been proven scientifically to improve mood, stress levels, and general wellbeing, people tend to underestimate its importance to them personally. For starters, exercise releases endorphins which give feelings of euphoria and pleasure similar to drugs, thus improving overall mood. Secondly, exercise increases blood flow throughout the body, allowing nutrients and oxygen to reach vital organs, including the brain, heart, and muscles. Lastly, exercise helps reduce anxiety, depression, and loneliness since it promotes social interaction among individuals. Therefore, participating in group fitness classes or joining a gym is highly recommended. On top of that, eating healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can increase serotonin production, which enhances mood and reduces risk factors associated with depression.
The following tips are meant to aid in increasing self-love and boosting your self-esteem, and glowing up naturally:
1) Treat Yourself Every Day
No matter how small or insignificant it might seem, treat yourself once in a while using anything from a massage therapy session to a nice dinner date. You remind yourself that you’re worthy enough to receive love and affection from others.
2) Give Yourself Time Off
Don’t allow work or obligations to disrupt your daily schedule. Instead, set aside specific periods during the day for relaxation & rejuvenation. These breaks include downtime, sleep, showering/bathing, drinking water, getting dressed, stretching, journal writing, meditation, prayer, deep breathing exercises, etc. Take advantage of these moments to unwind and recharge your batteries. Remember, nothing beats a little break from reality.
3) Be Grateful
Start keeping a gratitude journal and write down everything you’re grateful for in regard to your current situation. As humans, we often fall victim to negative thoughts about fear, doubt, insecurity, anger, jealousy, grief, sadness, etc. These emotions can easily cloud judgment and hinder productivity. However, focusing solely on this negativity won’t provide long-term solutions. Instead, reframe these situations with a fresh perspective by considering all the blessings bestowed upon you. Appreciate that you’re alive today and able to experience joy and fulfillment despite whatever hardships accompany life.
4) Surround Yourself With Supportive People
Love cannot exist alone. Find support groups consisting of supportive friends, relatives, mentors, coaches, teachers, and role models. Share burdens and talk openly about issues related to self-worth. Encourage one another to stay strong amidst all odds.
5) Develop Healthy Habits
Set realistic goals and stick to them. Practice habits conducive to improved self-worth such as maintaining proper nutrition, sleeping 8+hours per night, practicing safe sex, staying away from alcohol and tobacco products, reducing caffeine intake, avoiding sugar consumption, controlling impulse purchases, eliminating toxic relationships, etc.
6) Learn Something New
Try learning about topics ranging from finance to psychology. Reading articles and books written by successful entrepreneurs and leaders can inspire you further. Sign up for online courses offered by reputable institutions (e.g., MIT OpenCourseWare), then study at your own pace. Once you master something, share knowledge with others to contribute meaningfully to society.
7) Do Things That Bring Happiness
Participate regularly in hobbies and recreational activities that bring enjoyment and satisfaction to your life. Spend money on gifts and experiences instead of material possessions. Get eyelash extensions for example.
8) Cultivate Positive Attitudes
Always think positively regardless of external circumstances. Visualize your future desires and aspirations instead of dwelling on present regrets. See possibility instead of limitation.
9) Get Inspired
Listen to motivational speeches given by experts in leadership, entrepreneurship, motivation, success principles, etc. Read inspirational quotes and sayings posted around town. Visit museums, art galleries, and theaters. Go to shopping malls and admire window displays. Watch documentaries, listen to podcasts and watch TED Talks. Seek inspiration from great achievers and learn from their mistakes.
10) Have Fun
Celebrate successes and failures alike. Laugh often, play sports, and engage in outdoor activities. Indulge in frivolous fun and unplanned outings. Break routines and explore uncharted territories.
11) Live Intentionally
Put forth the effort to live consciously and purposefully. Stop living unconsciously and automatically. Life happens for better or worse. We must accept responsibility for our actions and reactions.
12) Ask Questions
Question authorities, mentors, colleagues, and peers regarding relevant matters. Inquire if you can gain insight on specific subjects. The study, read and research extensively before forming opinions. Never let pride prevent you from seeking advice from others.
13) Accept Criticism Constructively
Understand that everyone has unique perspectives. Some viewpoints may differ from yours. Nevertheless, respect differences and avoid stereotyping people based on limited information.
14) Stay Focused
Avoid distractions and maintain focus on the tasks at hand. Concentrate fully on the task at hand. Don’t worry about tomorrow. Tomorrow will take care of itself.
15) Improve Self Confidence
Confident people usually possess strong convictions. They believe strongly in themselves and trust their gut instincts. They understand that action speaks louder than words. Their personality reflects integrity, values, and honesty.
16) Embrace Change
Nothing stays constant. Changes happen constantly. Accept changes gracefully and embrace them.
17) Adopt New Values
Evaluate your core beliefs and morals. Are they aligned with your lifestyle choices? Does your behavior reflect your deepest desire to do right by yourself and others? Is your mind free from guilt concerning past misdeeds?
18) Work Hard
Don’t expect overnight results. Commit to hard work and persistence. Persevere until victory manifests itself.
19) Keep Learning
Continually expand your horizons and never stop educating yourself. Continue pursuing lifelong education and seek mentorship from experienced professionals.
20) Respect Authority
Trust your intuition. Follow instructions provided by authorities such as parents, doctors, lawyers, police officers, politicians, military personnel, professors, clergymen, journalists, scientists, business executives, etc.
21) Build Resilience
Handle setbacks and challenges head-on. Remain optimistic and resilient despite obstacles.
Last Thoughts
A glow-up is the perfect way to become your best self – physically and mentally! You will grow more than you ever thought possible during a glow-up challenge. It’s not just about being pretty, and it’s about becoming more confident in yourself, which truly matters.
If you’re wondering how to have a significant glow-up, I hope this article has given you some helpful tips! Follow these tips to improve yourself mentally and physically. Whether you want to let your natural beauty shine or become the best version of yourself, this challenge will help you do that!
