The Glow-Up Isn’t Just Physical. It’s Spiritual.

There was a time when a glow-up meant a new haircut, nails done, a nice outfit, or maybe a new job. I thought if I looked good, I would feel good. Like if the outside was put together, maybe the inside would catch up eventually.

But that definition doesn’t hold anymore.Because the physical means nothing when you're in turmoil internally.

I realized the glow-up had to be something deeper when no matter how many people told me I was beautiful, I didn’t believe it. I’d pretend I did, but my choices said otherwise. Who I allowed in my life, what I tolerated, how I let people talk to me, the way I kept performing for approval... none of that reflected someone who knew her worth.

The real glow-up started when I stopped abandoning myself.

When I stopped letting people twist things and make me feel like I was the problem. When I got tired. And I mean really tired. Tired of carrying the weight for everybody. Tired of trying to fix things I didn’t break. Tired of feeling bad just for choosing myself.

Peace became more important than appearances.

I had to let go of staying in relationships I knew I couldn’t change. I stopped reaching out just to keep things going. The truth is, a lot of my relationships only stayed afloat because of me. I stopped ignoring the slick things people said. I let them sit in their own discomfort.

That was part of the spiritual glow-up too.

Now, I do my best to stand on my boundaries. I try to respond instead of react. I check in with myself often and get honest, even when it’s uncomfortable. I hold myself accountable, but I don’t let it turn into shame. I catch the thoughts that try to replay the same old lies, and I replace them with truth.

And I pray. That’s how I stay grounded. Especially when life gets heavy.

If you’re chasing outside validation but still feel empty, start on the inside. You can buy the clothes, the shoes, the car, the bag. Don't get me wrong, I love all of that. But none of it will matter if you’re still doubting your worth when it’s quiet and no one’s looking.

If my younger self saw me now, I think she’d be shocked at how calm I am. Honestly, she probably wouldn’t even recognize this version of me who doesn’t always need the last word.

And what most people don’t know just by looking at me is this.I’ve had more negative bank accounts than I can count. I’ve cried more tears than anyone will ever know. I’ve been betrayed by people I would’ve done anything for. But I kept smiling. At one point, it was my shield. Now, it’s a sign of growth. I’m still soft. I’m still loving. But I’ve learned how to protect my peace and be vulnerable with the right people.

That’s the glow-up. Not just how I look, but who I’ve become.

That said: The real glow-up isn’t in what they see. It’s in what you finally refuse to carry, what you finally choose to honor, and the quiet power of becoming someone you’re proud of without needing anyone else to validate it.

Heal & Hustle

~A