The Ultimate Glow Up Guide: How to Glow From the Inside Out

When you think of a glow up, what comes to mind?

For some, it’s looking their best. For others, it’s feeling their healthiest. For me, it’s all of it: becoming the best version of myself, inside and out. A glow up isn’t just about a new outfit or a fresh skincare routine—it’s a lifestyle. It’s about investing in yourself, building habits that elevate your mind, body, spirit and style and stepping into your highest self.

I often come across guides that promise a glow up in a few weeks or months. Personally, I don’t believe in putting a timeline on self-growth. We’re always leveling up. A glow up isn’t a quick fix—it’s a lifelong process. And the most powerful ones always start from the inside out.

It’s not just about whitening your teeth or buying a new wardrobe (while it’s part of it). It’s about working on your mindset, breaking old habits, cutting ties with people or situations that no longer align, and pouring into yourself daily. Because here’s the truth: you can’t glow if you’re constantly pouring from an empty cup.

This guide is for my self-growth girlies, for anyone ready to invest in themselves and embody their best possible version. Think of it as your glow up roadmap...one that you can return to, adapt and expand on as you evolve.

Glow Up From the Inside Out

Mind

• Read self-growth books that expand your perspective.

• Work through limiting beliefs with the help of a therapist, coach, or mentor.

• Prioritise mental health and protect your peace.

• Spread kindness, you glow differently when you radiate grace.

• Curate podcasts and playlists that uplift and inspire you.

• Journal daily to release heaviness and gain clarity.

• Declutter your home and remove what no longer matches your energy.

• Write down your goals and break them into doable steps.

• Budget and save wisely, financial wellness is part of your glow.

Body

• Exercise in a way you enjoy…gym, Pilates, strength training, yoga, or dance.

• Stretch and move to release stored muscle tension.

• Prioritise nutrition and cook more at home, try new recipes, and focus on balance.

• Commit to skincare that suits your skin type—cleanse, exfoliate, moisturise.

• Nourish your hair with weekly oiling or masks.

• Stay hydrated. Water is your best (and cheapest) glow product.

• Take care of your teeth. Brush twice a day and floss regularly.

• Improve your posture, the way you carry yourself is so important.

• Prioritise rest. Listen to your body and honour its needs.

• Don’t forget vitamins and supplements if needed.

Spirit

• Create a daily spiritual practice, meditation, prayer, gratitude, or nature walks.

• Do something fun regularly…joy is magnetic.

• Express yourself creatively through art, writing, cooking, or gardening.

• Try energy healing or cleansing practices. Your spiritual hygiene is just as important.

• Cut cords with the past relationships, friendships, or spaces that no longer align.

• Find your purpose and connect with something bigger.

• Tune into your intuition and start listening to your inner voice.

• Cleanse your home of stagnant energy…use sage to cleanse or simply open your windows to let in fresh energy.

Social

• Be intentional online and follow accounts that inspire and unfollow what drains you.

• Evaluate your relationships, are they supportive or depleting?

• Say yes to new connections. Networking doesn’t always mean business, it can be getting to know a new friend at a party.

• Detach from online negativity…not every comment deserves your energy.

• Stop dimming your light to fit in, the right ones will love you for who you are.

• Avoid gossip and sit at the tables that uplift and inspire.

• Cut ties with ‘mean girl energy’…if they ignore you or exclude you then let them go.

• Stop settling in relationships…you deserve more than breadcrumbs or emotional unavailability.

Style

• Find your signature scent or lipstick…those little touches of “you.”

• Own what makes you different…your quirks are what makes you stand out.

• Draw inspiration from style icons you admire, maybe it’s a celebrity or a family member?

• Create mood boards to define your aesthetic.

• Invest in timeless pieces that you’ll wear again and again.

• Cut down on heat styling and makeup days and give your natural beauty space to shine.

• Find your clothing style. Not just trends, but what feels authentically you.

• Dress up for yourself, don’t wait for an occasion.

Remember, the biggest glow up starts with investing in your inner world. Whatever you shift within will always reflect outward. It’s not about perfection—it’s about alignment, growth and self-love.

You don’t need to do all of these steps at once. Take what resonates, add your own, and create your personal glow up routine. And most importantly, enjoy the process.

You are your best investment.

Love from your cheerleader and glow up bestie,

Sonia