Little Things You Can Do to Feel Like the Best Version of You

Whether you want to call it a "glow-up" or just a new era of you, becoming your best self is something that most of us can say we want.

While TikTok "it girls" and social media in general can make it seem like doing so is a time- and effort-intensive process (not to mention an expensive one), there are actually a ton of simple, easy and downright small things you can do to feel like the best version of you. And since we just said this is all about making this easy for you, we'll go ahead and get right to our list of little things—many of which you can start to do pretty much right now.

Journal

We know, this is one habit that can seem not so little when you first think about doing it. However, we're happy to tell you that having the right mindset and even the right journal can help a ton. In fact, journals like the Journal 180 Lifestyle Self Care Planner ($37.97) or the Maniscripting Life Design Journal ($60) can make things even easier and more enjoyable for you by giving you prompts that get you thinking not only about what you have to be grateful for, but also what you want and how you're going to get it.

(via Maniscripting)

 

Also read about: 6 Little Things You Can Do to Be Your Best Self in 2023

 

Get Your Nails Done

One seriously underrated form of self-care? Getting a manicure. It's honestly hard to imagine how no one is talking about the major boost in confidence that comes with having your nails done, especially when you go with a long-lasting option like gel or dip. And yes, becoming a manicure person does require spending a bit of extra cash (a typical gel manicure can cost about $35 before tip, depending on where you go and where you live), but it's a small thing that's simple to do that leads to a huge benefit in how you feel about yourself—and that's pretty priceless if you ask us.

(via Unsplash)

 

Start Waking Up a Little Earlier

We're not saying you should start being one of those people who gets up at 4:45 in the morning every day to hit the gym (especially if you normally arise more around 9:00 or later), but you might be impressed at how much more you can do during your day when you avoid the snooze button. Even five to 15 minutes can make a huge difference, and that can lead you to start creeping that alarm setting earlier and earlier each day.

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Try Something New in the Gym

No need to push yourself to the point of discomfort trying to achieve your fitness goals, but why not try out that machine you've always seen other people use or even give a virtual at-home workout a go? Things that feel a little hard at first often lead to the best results, if for no other reason than increasing your confidence. So even if all you do is make yourself do one extra set than you normally do or increase the incline on the treadmill by a point or two, you might just see a difference in yourself without having to put in a whole lot of effort.

(via Unsplash)

 

Sneak in Some Teeth Whitening

Confidence is key to feeling like your best self, and unfortunately, oftentimes, appearance can be a key factor in what makes us feel like we're lacking in that department. Remind yourself that most of this is just in your head, then embrace some simple habits that help you show up for yourself in both a mental and physical way. That's why we suggest sneaking in some simple teeth-whitening methods, including using something like a whitening mouthwash (like this one from Snow, $21.25) on top of your usual whitening toothpaste.

(via Snow)

 

Plan Your Outfits in Advance

Whether you follow our advice on waking up earlier each day or not, being in a rush and having to pick an outfit in a panic is no way to start your day. Oftentimes, this leads to choosing the first thing you come up with, and that can mean distressing over your outfit while sitting in class all day (even if no one else notices). Instead of becoming your own worst enemy, plan an outfit for the next day—that you know will be clean and ready the night before—even if it's just in your head.

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Also read about: The Most Aesthetic Pimple Patches to Combat Pesky Acne Breakouts

 

Practice Your Skincare Routine

No need to purchase 50 different products that clutter your counter or get into a full 12-step nighttime routine to be your best main character self, glowing skin and all. There are a ton of products out there that can help you out without taking too much of your time or money, and truly the most important part of nailing your skincare routine is, well, having a routine. Even if, at the bare minimum, you wash your face and apply a moisturizer afterward twice a day and remember your SPF in the morning. You're still doing some good for yourself that will pay off in the long run.

(via Unsplash)

 

With just seven simple habits, you'll see yourself start to become the best version of you. The key is to have patience and be kind, especially to yourself. But if you do need some more inspiration, click HERE for our tips on achieving your ideal summer glow-up.