CTRL+Z

The Glow Up

The Glow Up

How to Become โ€œThatโ€ Person (Without Burnout)ย 

Level up without losing yourselfโ€”become โ€œthat personโ€ with balance and peace.ย  We all know that personโ€”the one who seems to juggle everything effortlessly and still crushes it. Maybe itโ€™s that friend whoโ€™s always on top of everything, or the influencer who’s killing it while living her best life. Gen Zโ€™s goal is clear: be the best version of ourselves. The truth is, itโ€™s easy to get overwhelmed and burn out. So, how can you become the person you admire, without running yourself into the ground? Hereโ€™s your guide to becoming โ€œthat personโ€ with balance. 1. Who is โ€œThat Personโ€ to YOU? Letโ€™s kick things off with some real talk: Who is โ€œthat personโ€ in your eyes? We all have different versions of success, but the key is not to compare yourself to others. Instead, focus on defining success for YOU. Whether itโ€™s balancing school, work, or side hustles, your version of โ€œthat personโ€ is unique to you. CTRL+Z Hack:ย Take a moment to jot down what success and balance look like for youโ€”whether it’s excelling in your career, spending quality time with friends, or simply growing as an individual. 2. Prioritize and Learn When to Say โ€œNoโ€ Hereโ€™s the dealโ€”being โ€œthat personโ€ doesnโ€™t mean saying yes to everything. It means prioritizing whatโ€™s really important. Focus on the tasks that bring you closer to your goals, and reject those that drain your energy. CTRL+Z Hack:ย Try the โ€œtwo-minute ruleโ€ if something will take less than two minutes, do it immediately. Otherwise, schedule it for later. This keeps you productive without getting overwhelmed. 3. Set Boundaries (Even With Yourself) Gen Z is all about hustling, but letโ€™s face it: hustle culture can burn you out. Work hard, but rest is just as important. Burnout wonโ€™t make you โ€œthat person.โ€ Setting clear boundaries is essential. Donโ€™t be afraid to say no to tasks or activities that donโ€™t serve your goals. CTRL+Z Hack: Adopt a โ€œwork hard, rest harderโ€ mindset. Establish set work hours and make time for breaks. Achieving long-term success requires balance. 4. Failure Is Part of the Process Hereโ€™s a truth bomb: failure is a necessary part of success. You canโ€™t become โ€œthat personโ€ without learning from your mistakes. Every failure teaches you resilience, patience, and valuable lessons. So, embrace the bumps along the way, theyโ€™re what help you grow. CTRL+Z Hack: Reframe failure as feedback. When something doesnโ€™t work, ask yourself: โ€œWhat can I learn from this?โ€ Then, keep pushing forward with a clearer mindset. 5. Prioritize Your Mental Health (For Real) Your mental health is everything. You canโ€™t be โ€œthat personโ€ if youโ€™re sacrificing your well-being. If you’re feeling off, take a break. Whether itโ€™s journaling, meditation, or going for a walk, find what helps you stay grounded. CTRL+Z Hack: Take a 10-minute mental health break during your day. Stretch, breathe deeply, or listen to music that calms you. Itโ€™ll recharge your mind. 6. Build a Supportive Social Circle Being โ€œthat personโ€ doesnโ€™t mean doing everything alone. Surround yourself with people who support you, challenge you, and celebrate your wins, big or small. Your friends, mentors, or online community can help keep you motivated and on track. CTRL+Z Hack: Focus on quality, not quantity, when it comes to friendships. Cultivate trust and authenticity in your connections. 7. Celebrate the Small Wins In todayโ€™s world, we often celebrate big milestones, but the small wins are just as important. Being โ€œthat personโ€ means recognizing and celebrating every step of your journey, not just the destination. CTRL+Z Hack: Start a gratitude journal. Write down at least one small win every day. Itโ€™ll shift your perspective and help you stay motivated. CTRL+Z Takeaways Becoming โ€œthat personโ€ isnโ€™t about being perfectโ€”itโ€™s about showing up, learning from your mistakes, and taking care of yourself along the way. Focus on your goals, prioritize what matters, and donโ€™t let failure hold you back. Take it one step at a time, and youโ€™ll find successโ€”without burning out. No Comments The Glow Up About the Author Laxmi Bhatt I’m Laxmi, a content writer who turns caffeine into words and ideas into stories. If creativity had a speed limit, Iโ€™d be breaking it daily. Juggling words, dodging writerโ€™s block, and occasionally questioning my life choicesโ€”one sentence at a time. Always typing, always snacking, never not thinking! Instagram X-twitter Quick links Menu Home Categories Z-Verse About the Author Laxmi Bhatt I’m Laxmi, a content writer who turns caffeine into words and ideas into stories. If creativity had a speed limit, Iโ€™d be breaking it daily. Juggling words, dodging writerโ€™s block, and occasionally questioning my life choicesโ€”one sentence at a time. Always typing, always snacking, never not thinking! Instagram X-twitter Quick links Menu Home Categories Z-Verse

The Glow Up

Romanticizing the Little Things

Finding Beauty in the Simple: A Gen Z Guide to Romanticizing the Little Things In a world ruled by the big and bold, viral trends, ambitious goals, and picture-perfect social media posts, itโ€™s easy to overlook the beauty in everyday. But hereโ€™s the secret: lifeโ€™s magic is often hidden in the small details. Gen Z has a knack for turning mundane moments into something amazing. Letโ€™s explore why romanticizing the little things matters and how you can start doing it today. Why Romanticizing the Small Stuff Matters Life moves fast. Between school, side hustles, social lives, and self-care, weโ€™re often on autopilot. Romanticizing the small stuff forces us to pause and see the beauty in the now. Itโ€™s about enjoying the ordinary, a perfect cup of coffee or the soothing sound of rain on your window. This mindset isnโ€™t just trendy; itโ€™s a powerful form of self-care that reduces stress and boosts mental health. Simple Tricks to Add Value to Your Everyday Life Life isnโ€™t just about the big milestonesโ€”itโ€™s about the little joys, the everyday moments that make you feel alive. By indulging in your passions and nurturing relationships, you can turn ordinary days into something special. Here are some simple yet effective ways to add meaning to your daily routine: Transform Your Space: Your surroundings influence your mood. Add fairy lights, thrifted decor, or a cute plant that reflects your vibe. Even tidying up your desk can make everyday tasks feel more enjoyable. Make Your Mornings Magical: Start your day with intention. Sip coffee from your favorite mug, journal as the sun rises, or set the mood with a chill playlist. Small rituals can bring a sense of calm and purpose. Celebrate Small Wins: Finished your to-do list? Treat yourself. Completed a workout? Snap a progress pic. Acknowledging small victories keeps you motivated and uplifted. Savor Simple Pleasures: Enjoy the first bite of a warm cookie, the scent of fresh coffee, or the feeling of cozy socks. Itโ€™s the attention you give to these moments that makes them special. Capture Everyday Beauty: Snap photos of your dayโ€”a golden sunset, a cute dog, or your favorite outfit. These moments donโ€™t have to be Instagram-worthy; they just need to matter to you. By making small changes, you can infuse your everyday life with joy, appreciation, and a sense of fulfillment. After all, happiness is often found in the details. The Honest Truth Romanticizing the little things doesnโ€™t mean ignoring lifeโ€™s challenges. Itโ€™s about balance. Bad days happen, and itโ€™s okay to feel overwhelmed. The key is to find those fleeting moments that make your heart feel full and be honest with yourself. Must-Know Points Add a soundtrack to your day for movie vibes. Embrace slow mornings; they set the tone. Aesthetic doesnโ€™t mean expensive. DIY, thrift, and repurpose. Start a gratitude journal, itโ€™s life-changing. Life is short. Eat the cake, wear the outfit, light the candle. ย  So, Gen Z, hereโ€™s your call to action: Discover magic in the everyday. Embracing the little things is a love letter to yourself, transforming ordinary moments into unforgettable memories. You donโ€™t need a perfect life to feel fulfilled, just the perspective to appreciate the beauty that already surrounds you. No Comments The Glow Up About the Author Laxmi Bhatt I’m Laxmi, a content writer who turns caffeine into words and ideas into stories. If creativity had a speed limit, Iโ€™d be breaking it daily. Juggling words, dodging writerโ€™s block, and occasionally questioning my life choicesโ€”one sentence at a time. Always typing, always snacking, never not thinking! Instagram X-twitter Quick links Menu Home Categories Z-Verse About the Author Laxmi Bhatt I’m Laxmi, a content writer who turns caffeine into words and ideas into stories. If creativity had a speed limit, Iโ€™d be breaking it daily. Juggling words, dodging writerโ€™s block, and occasionally questioning my life choicesโ€”one sentence at a time. Always typing, always snacking, never not thinking! Instagram X-twitter Quick links Menu Home Categories Z-Verse

The Glow Up

How to Call Out Problematic Behavior [Without the Drama]

Maintaining a Calm Attitude in the Face of Unsettling Behaviorย ย  Addressing problematic behavior can feel tricky, but it doesnโ€™t have to result in conflict or unnecessary drama. The goal is simple: hold people accountable while fostering understanding and mutual respect. By approaching these situations with confidence and care, you can make a real difference. Hereโ€™s how to handle them effectively. 1. Pause Before Reacting When you notice problematic behavior, your first instinct might be to confront it immediately. However, taking a moment to pause can make all the difference. Ask yourself: What exactly happened? Why does this behavior feel problematic to me? This brief reflection helps you process your thoughts and prevents knee-jerk reactions. By understanding the issue fully, youโ€™ll be better prepared to address it constructively without jumping to conclusions. 2. Focus on the Action, Not the Person Itโ€™s important to separate the behavior from the individual. Labeling someone as โ€œinconsiderateโ€ or โ€œselfishโ€ can put them on the defensive, making it harder to have a productive conversation. Instead, focus on the specific action. For example, instead of saying, โ€œYouโ€™re always so rude,โ€ try something like, โ€œI felt hurt when this happened.โ€ This shifts the focus to the impact of their behavior rather than attacking their character, keeping the discussion constructive. 3. Pick the Right Time and Place Timing and setting can make or break a conversation. Public confrontations often lead to embarrassment and defensiveness, so opt for a private setting where both of you can speak openly without distractions. Ensure the timing works for them as well; approaching someone when theyโ€™re stressed or preoccupied might not yield the best results. A calm, private environment shows respect for the other person and sets the stage for an honest dialogue. 4. Use โ€œIโ€ Statements โ€œIโ€ statements are powerful tools for expressing your feelings without sounding accusatory. When you speak from your perspective, itโ€™s easier to communicate your concerns without putting the other person on the defensive. For instance: Instead of: โ€œYouโ€™re always interrupting me.โ€ Try: โ€œI feel unheard when Iโ€™m interrupted because it makes it hard to share my thoughts.โ€ This approach encourages understanding and frames the issue as a shared concern rather than a personal attack. 5. Propose a Solution Constructive feedback works best when paired with practical suggestions. Highlighting the issue is essential, but offering a way forward shows youโ€™re committed to improvement, not just pointing fingers. For example, if someone frequently interrupts, you could say: โ€œCould we try taking turns speaking? That way, everyone has a chance to share their ideas.โ€ Providing solutions helps shift the focus toward collaboration and positive change. 6. Be Open to Their Perspective A meaningful conversation requires listening as much as talking. The other person might not realize the impact of their actions, or they might have a different perspective worth considering. Ask questions to understand their point of view: โ€œWhat did you mean when you said that?โ€ โ€œDid you realize how that might have come across?โ€ By showing empathy and curiosity, you pave the way for a more balanced and productive dialogue. 7. Know When to Walk Away Not every conversation will go as planned, and thatโ€™s okay. If the other person isnโ€™t open to dialogue or becomes combative, itโ€™s important to respect your boundaries. Walking away doesnโ€™t mean giving up; it means prioritizing your peace. Remember, your goal isnโ€™t to โ€œwinโ€ the conversation but to encourage understanding and growth. If thatโ€™s not possible, stepping back can be the healthiest choice for everyone involved. Final Thoughts Calling out problematic behavior doesnโ€™t have to lead to drama. By staying calm, focusing on the behavior, and advocating for mutual understanding, you can encourage positive change. Itโ€™s not about pointing fingers or assigning blame but about creating an environment where everyone feels respected and accountable.With the right approach, even challenging conversations can become opportunities for growth. By pausing, staying constructive, and listening actively, youโ€™ll build stronger relationships and a more harmonious environment.The key is to approach these situations with care; no theatrics required. The Glow Up About the Author Laxmi Bhatt I’m Laxmi, a content writer who turns caffeine into words and ideas into stories. If creativity had a speed limit, Iโ€™d be breaking it daily. Juggling words, dodging writerโ€™s block, and occasionally questioning my life choicesโ€”one sentence at a time. Always typing, always snacking, never not thinking! Instagram X-twitter Quick links Menu Home Categories Z-Verse About the Author Laxmi Bhatt I’m Laxmi, a content writer who turns caffeine into words and ideas into stories. If creativity had a speed limit, Iโ€™d be breaking it daily. Juggling words, dodging writerโ€™s block, and occasionally questioning my life choicesโ€”one sentence at a time. Always typing, always snacking, never not thinking! Instagram X-twitter Quick links Menu Home Categories Z-Verse

Inner Peace, Offline Mode, The Glow Up

Journaling as a Tool for Self-Discoveryย ย 

Connect to the Inner Youย  Before you get overwhelmed by the what and how of the journaling process, I must tell you: You don’t have to have it figured out. Keeping a journal is like having a conversation with yourself. It helps you reconnect with your inner voice and be friends with yourself. When time feels like sand slipping through your hands, writing it down in your little diary can slow down the momentum around you and help you regain a sense of control in the world. Here’s how to get started: Select a Journal.ย  I have a โ€˜Hello Kittyโ€™ journal (because who doesn’t love Hello Kitty?), but you can choose any journal of your preference. The idea is that it should motivate you to pick it up and write in it. Selecting a journal is a part of the process. In fact, you don’t have to buy a โ€œwritingโ€ journal necessarily; you can select an art journal, scrapbook journal, or a blank page journal that you doodle in and sticker-ify yourself. If you are completely clueless, just go and peruse the diary/journal section at Target or Miniso and choose one that speaks to you. You don’t have to invest in a new diary for your journalโ€”you can use whatever you already have, as long as you use it well! Select a technique.ย  Often, when we think about journaling, the question โ€œWhat should I write?โ€ comes hanging off its arm. While you can always switch up your styles, it helps to choose a technique at the start to maintain consistency. Select a time and place. Do I have to do it in the morning? No. Do I have to make coffee? No. It’s not about what you โ€œhave toโ€ do. It’s about what you want to do. You can journal anywhere and anytime, if that works for you. However, as a newbie, it helps to choose a time and a safe corner to get you started. Personally, I journal at night to write about the happenings of my day. WHAT CTRL+Z SUGGESTS Every entry doesn’t have to be deep and soul-baring; often the act of writing about even mundane stuff is therapeutic in itself. Even if you think it’s not your cup of tea, I suggest you give it a try. Uncle Kafka journaled on his worst days, so you have no excuse. Most importantly, whether you’re an avid journaler or a newbie, remember to give yourself grace! It’s not a race; it’s a journey you take with yourself. No Comments Inner Peace,Offline Mode,The Glow Up About the Author Sneha A young writer that writes about things that matter most- identity, family, adulting, digital life (or the lack of it). Sometimes, I also indulge in making memes and writing poetry; the two spectrums of creativity. I also love music and engaging in different fandoms. Always been the girl with ‘too many’ opinions and will always be one. Instagram X-twitter Quick links Menu Home Categories Z-Verse About the Author Sneha A young writer that writes about things that matter most- identity, family, adulting, digital life (or the lack of it). Sometimes, I also indulge in making memes and writing poetry; the two spectrums of creativity. I also love music and engaging in different fandoms. Always been the girl with ‘too many’ opinions and will always be one. Instagram X-twitter Quick links Menu Home Categories Z-Verse

Health Hype, The Glow Up

Daily Routines for Better Energyย 

Easy daily habits to boost your energyย  Hey friends, are you feeling tired by mid-afternoon or struggling to get out of bed in the morning? Youโ€™re not alone. Life can be busy, and staying energized isnโ€™t always easy. The good news is, with a few simple changes to your routine, you can feel more awake and ready to tackle the day. Letโ€™s keep it simple and practical! 1. Start Your Day with Waterย ย  Before anything else, drink a glass of water as soon as you wake up. Your body gets dehydrated overnight, and rehydrating yourself helps quickstart your system. Bonus: It can even make you feel more alert! 2. Let in Some Morning Lightย ย  Open the curtains or step outside for a few minutes. Natural sunlight helps reset your bodyโ€™s internal clock, making it easier to stay energized throughout the day. If itโ€™s cloudy, even a few minutes outside can still help. 3. Donโ€™t Skip Breakfastย ย  Fuel your body early with something nutritious. Go for options like a smoothie with fruits and spinach, overnight oats with nuts and honey, toast with avocado and a sprinkle of chili flakes. The idea is to eat something that keeps you full without feeling heavy. 4. Move a Littleย ย  A quick workout or stretch in the morning gets your blood flowing and boosts your energy levels. You donโ€™t need a gym, just find a simple workout on YouTube or do some stretches right in your room. 5. Plan Your Dayย ย  Take a few minutes to write your main goals for the day. Keeping things organized can reduce stress and help you focus your energy on what matters most. 6. Snack Smartย ย  When hunger strikes between meals, avoid junk foods like chips, ice-creams etc. Instead, try: 7. Take Small Breaksย ย  Working or studying for long periods can drain you. Use the Pomodoro Technique: work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. Step away from your screen and stretch or grab a quick snack. 8. Drink Plenty of Waterย ย  Energy drinks might seem tempting, but plain water is the ultimate energy booster. Keep a bottle with you and sip throughout the day. Add lemon or mint if you want to jazz it up. 9. Nap Smartlyย ย  If youโ€™re feeling tired in the afternoon, a short 15โ€“20 minute nap can work wonders. Just donโ€™t nap too late in the day, or it could mess with your sleep at night. 10. Get Ready for Bedย ย  To have energy tomorrow, prioritize quality sleep tonight. Turn off screens an hour before bed, dim the lights, and do something relaxing like reading or listening to calming music. ย  No Comments Health Hype,The Glow Up About the Author Shaik Noushed I’m Noushed. I write fun stories and simple words that everyone can enjoy. I turn ideas into easy-to-read tales that make people smile. I work with words every day, mixing facts with fun. I love to learn, write, and share my dreams with the world. Always kind and creative. Instagram X-twitter Quick links Menu Home Categories Z-Verse About the Author Shaik Noushed I’m Noushed. I write fun stories and simple words that everyone can enjoy. I turn ideas into easy-to-read tales that make people smile. I work with words every day, mixing facts with fun. I love to learn, write, and share my dreams with the world. Always kind and creative. Instagram X-twitter Quick links Menu Home Categories Z-Verse