Girl's guide 2.0

Becoming Your Own "It Girl"

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For the last couple of months, I've been fascinated with this recent social media trend, commonly called the "that girl" or "it girl" phenomenon. Let me paint the picture: lemon water, manifestation journals, always productive and works out every morning. It's not only an aesthetic, but a lifestyle. Things like wellness and productivity is central to "that girl" and while there are many things that turns unhealthy with this (glamorizing grind culture, toxic positivity and lack of diversity in the community), the essence of this trend is very wholesome and inspiring for other young girls and women particularly. Let's move beyond the aesthetic and embrace these messages of self-improvement in our own way!

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Do it for yourself

The endless content of "that girl" routines out there can make it hard not to compare yourself to the girls that look like they have it all together. You might even want to emulate them in order to have what they have, or what they present to the world at least. Just remember that starting and committing to a routine should be for yourself first, not because you feel like you have to or feel bad because you're not doing what they're doing.

Social media can be your friend, but keep a safe distance

Internet communities can do a lot of good; you can easily find other people that have the same passions and interests as you and inspire/encourage each other to pursue your hobbies and activities. While there are more aspirational aspects to the "that girl" online community, there are still some flaws like the huge lack of girls/women of color in the aesthetic. It's important to keep a healthy distance from the Internet in general, but especially when it comes to aesthetics and lifestyles. Be careful not to compare yourself too much.

You don't need a specific inventory

Green teas, yoga mats, cute little weights, avocado toast, yogurt with granola, a water bottle that matches your workout ensemble... I could go on about this "starter kit" to being "that girl". These items are often found in almost all of the "that girl routine" videos, mood boards and aesthetic pictures. But often times, everyday people don't have all the access or money to it all, so don't feel pressured to have a specific set of materials for your routine.

Remember to rest

All these messages of constant self-improvement and productivity can make it seem like you have to do the most you can while you're awake. While it's good to work on yourself and whatever studies or jobs you're in, rest time is as important as crunch time. Sometimes, taking a nap or just watching Netflix in your bed can be the most productive thing to do. Make sure to rest your physical body and nurture your mental health.

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"That girl" can look like the perfect person who has her life all figured out, but remember that we all have our off days as humans. You might not always feel productive or mentally healthy and that's perfectly valid. Remember that self-improvement is first and foremost for yourself and it can take any shape you want it to. Working out five days a week for an hour or waking up at five in the morning is not for everybody. Always build your routine around your capacities and limitations.

Comment if you're interested in learning how to build a morning routine that suits you! I hope this helped!

~ Shaana