I once said looking good can make you feel good—and since I said it, I had to check if there’s some research behind it. Turns out, there is:
“Looking good can significantly impact one’s mood by boosting confidence and self-esteem. When individuals feel good about their appearance, it often translates to a positive self-image, which can lead to a more approachable and confident demeanor.”
~ The Mood Guide’s “The Connection Between Looking Good and Feeling Good.”
Boom. It’s bulletproof.
So now that we agree on that, I thought I’d break down a few beauty hacks that help me survive ten-hour workdays without looking like I survived ten-hour workdays. Here’s how I wake up at 5AM and still manage to walk out the door feeling confident.
1. Flexi-Rod Set (the night before!)
First of all, nothing will ever beat a protective style—knotless braids, butterfly locs, under braids… the fresh out the bonnet is undefeated. When we’re rocking the, natural, wigs weaves, an easy time saver: get the flexi rods. They go in the night before, guaranteed heatless curl that saves me 35 to 45 minutes in the morning. It’s quick, it’s cute, and the bounce? Please.
2. Face Mask Before Bed
The number one rule of 5AM mornings: do everything you can the night before. Pack your bag. Lay out your clothes. And yes—put on that face mask. I do mine 2–3 nights a week to bring my skin back to life. Pick what your skin actually needs (hydration, treating acne, etc.), and thank yourself in the morning.
3. Don’t Forget Your Vitamins
Did you stop taking your vitamins after moving out of your parents’ house? Be honest.
Whether it’s gummies, supplements, or Flintstones chewables—do you. Just take care of your body. It’s yours. And you’ll know it better than anybody else. Strong bones, healthy skin, clear mind… it’s all connected.
4. Water > Everything
I know it’s nothing you haven’t heard before. But drink the water. It’s the one tip I almost never want to follow and always feel better when I do. Keep it simple: stay hydrated.
5. Stay Glossy
I keep some kind of oil on me—always. In middle school I had that Carmex on my bodyyy lol; but Vaseline, lip oils, cuticle oil… I love me some oil. Hydrated lips, moisturized hands, a little shine on the cheekbone—I’m here for it.
Let’s be real: maybe your version of “feeling good” has nothing to do with flexi rods or vitamin gummies. Maybe it’s a full breakfast and a slow sunrise. Maybe it’s a messy bun and not rushing. Whatever your routine looks like (or doesn’t look like), do what makes you feel like you.
Looking good doesn’t change the world around you—but it can change how you live in it.
K bye
Robyn
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