The end of the year always sneaks up faster than I expect. One minute it’s summer, and the next we’re staring down the holiday season, wondering where the time went. This year, instead of waiting until January to make resolutions, I decided to start early with something called the 121-Day Glow Up Challenge.
September 1st marked the countdown: 121 days until the new year. Rather than letting those days slip by, I’m treating them as an opportunity to realign with my goals and finish the year strong.
Here are the areas I’m focusing on:
Fitness: I’m blending lifting, yoga, and running into my weekly routine, with the goal of hitting my healthiest, strongest self. Reaching my ideal weight is part of it, but more importantly, I want to feel energized and capable.
Writing: My big creative goal is finishing and refining Project Amber. This book has been living in my heart for months, and I want to carry its momentum into the new year.
Mindset: Staying consistent with my Daily Grind Planner, routines, and journaling has been life-changing. This challenge is also about maintaining that structure so I don’t lose myself in the chaos of the holiday season.
What I love about this challenge is that it’s a reminder that transformation doesn’t have to wait for January 1st. Every single day counts. Small, consistent actions—whether it’s writing 500 words, choosing a nourishing meal, or taking 20 minutes to move my body—compound into big results over time.
If you’re craving a reset, I invite you to join me in your own version of a glow up challenge. Pick one thing you want to carry across the finish line this year. Imagine how much progress you can make in 121 days.
So tell me—what’s one thing you’d like to accomplish before the year ends?
When I first started my glow up journey, I knew one thing for sure: I needed to make fitness a regular part of my life. As a new mom, my energy levels were low, and I was feeling sluggish—often struggling with basic things like climbing stairs or carrying my baby. It was clear that something needed to change. But one of the most important decisions I made was not just about starting to work out—it was about choosing the right kind of workout for me. That’s where fitness classes played a major role in helping me lose 35 pounds and completely transform my life.
Accountability and Motivation
One of the most significant factors in my fitness success was choosing group fitness classes. Initially, I thought about working out at home or going to the gym on my own. But, after some thought, I realized that group classes were what I truly needed. Group workouts helped me stay consistent, not only because I was part of a community but because I knew that people were counting on me to show up. This accountability motivated me to get out of bed early, push myself during each session, and stay committed to my goals.
Fitness classes also introduced a sense of camaraderie that made the entire experience more enjoyable. I wasn’t just showing up for myself, but for a group of people who were all working toward similar fitness goals. I saw familiar faces every time, which made me feel like I was part of a fitness family. And it wasn’t just about working out—it was about creating friendships, building connections, and having fun along the way.
Varied Workouts for a Full-Body Transformation
Another benefit of group fitness classes is the variety of workouts available. I didn’t have to worry about planning a routine or trying to figure out what exercises to do next—each class was structured and targeted different aspects of fitness, such as strength, flexibility, and cardio. For me, classes like Body Pump, Body Balance, and yoga were key to my weight loss success.
Body Pump: This class focused on strength training, and it was perfect for building lean muscle and boosting my metabolism. The mix of weightlifting and high-repetition exercises helped tone my body, and I could feel myself getting stronger each week.
Body Balance: This class combined elements of yoga and Pilates, which helped improve my flexibility and balance. It also gave me a mental break and allowed me to focus on deep breathing and relaxation. I found that doing these types of workouts helped reduce stress and contributed to my overall well-being.
Yoga: Yoga helped me become more in tune with my body. It gave me time to slow down, stretch, and take care of my mind and body. It also helped me recover from intense workouts, keeping my muscles flexible and preventing injuries.
By consistently taking these classes, I didn’t just lose weight—I also improved my overall fitness and mental health. The combination of strength training, stretching, and cardio allowed me to see results in all areas of my body, giving me the toned and fit physique I was striving for.
The Joy of Group Support
The best part about fitness classes was the support and encouragement I received from instructors and fellow participants. Instructors would cheer me on, push me to work harder, and celebrate my progress, no matter how small. This kind of positive reinforcement helped me stay focused and motivated, especially on days when I felt exhausted or discouraged.
There were also plenty of times when the other participants would share their journeys, offer advice, or simply encourage me to keep going. Knowing that we were all working toward the same goal—becoming healthier and stronger—made it easier to push through challenging workouts. This shared energy created an uplifting environment that made the process of getting fitter much more enjoyable.
The Power of Consistency
Fitness classes became an essential part of my routine, and consistency was key to my success. I started going six days a week, and I was amazed by how quickly my body responded. Not only did I lose the 35 pounds I had gained during pregnancy, but I also gained muscle, improved my posture, and built a level of endurance I never thought possible.
The structure of the classes made it easier to stay on track. Having a set schedule each week kept me disciplined, and knowing I had a class to look forward to motivated me to stay active even on days when I wasn’t feeling up to it.
The Bottom Line: Find What Works for You
What I’ve learned from my experience is that fitness is not a one-size-fits-all approach. What works for one person might not work for another, and that’s okay. For me, fitness classes were the perfect solution, but if group workouts don’t appeal to you, that’s fine too. The important part is finding something you enjoy and can stick to in the long run.
If you’re struggling with motivation or just don’t know where to start, I recommend trying out a few different types of fitness classes or activities. You might be surprised by how much you enjoy a class that you initially thought wasn’t for you. The most important thing is to find something that feels right and keeps you coming back for more.
Losing 35 pounds was not about an extreme transformation—it was about making small, consistent changes that built up over time. Fitness classes were a game-changer for me, and I’m so grateful for the community, support, and motivation they provided. If you’re ready to start your fitness journey, remember that the right workout can make all the difference.
The journey to a successful glow up isn’t about quick fixes or drastic transformations. Instead, it’s about creating lasting, sustainable habits that become part of your daily routine. That’s where the concept of habit stacking comes in—a simple yet powerful technique that played a huge role in my own glow up journey.
When I started the 121 Glow Up Challenge by Angie Bellemare and the Daily Grind team, I was immediately introduced to the idea of building habits one step at a time. Initially, it seemed overwhelming. There were 18 different habits to incorporate into my day, covering everything from skincare and hydration to physical fitness and mental health. It was a lot to take on, especially while balancing the demands of being a new mom.
But here’s the secret: Habit stacking helped me succeed.
What is Habit Stacking?
Habit stacking is the process of pairing a new habit with an already existing one. The idea is that you use a habit you already do automatically (like brushing your teeth or drinking coffee) as a trigger to perform a new, desired behavior. By linking new habits to previously established ones, you create a system that requires less willpower, which makes it easier to stay consistent.
For example, instead of trying to remember to drink 80 ounces of water throughout the day, I would stack that habit on top of a routine I already had, like my morning coffee. Every time I finished my coffee, I would make it a point to drink a large glass of water. Over time, it became automatic, and I didn’t need to remind myself to do it anymore.
How Habit Stacking Transformed My Glow Up Journey
As a new mom, my life was busy and chaotic. Between recovering from a C-section, caring for my baby, and adjusting to my new responsibilities, it felt like I didn’t have time to focus on myself. But I knew something needed to change if I wanted to feel better—physically, mentally, and emotionally. That’s where habit stacking made a huge difference.
I didn’t have time to dedicate long hours to working out or meal prepping, so I used habit stacking to maximize every moment. Here are a few examples of how I incorporated it into my routine:
1. Morning Routine: Pre-Workout and Supplements
In the mornings, while my son was eating breakfast, I would quickly prepare my pre-workout drink, collagen supplement, and probiotic. I combined all three into one glass of water, which saved me time and ensured I didn’t forget any of them. I paired this with another habit I already had—getting my son settled for breakfast. This moment in my morning routine became my cue to get my health habits started, and before I knew it, I was consistently getting my supplements in.
2. Self-Care While Baby Eats: Ice Rolling and Skincare
While my son was eating, I also used the time to complete my skincare routine. Instead of seeing it as an extra chore, I saw it as a chance to focus on myself. While he was munching away, I would take the opportunity to ice-roll my face for 10-15 minutes. This wasn’t just a way to improve my skin. It was a form of self-care that helped me feel rejuvenated and grounded. Combining this with a task I was already doing (feeding him) made it an easy, no-brainer habit.
3. Walks with Baby and Dog: Getting My Steps In
Getting enough steps in each day was essential to my glow up, but it wasn’t always easy to find time for a dedicated walk. Instead of forcing myself to set aside an hour, I started pairing walking with other activities I already did, like taking my dog outside or getting my baby out for fresh air. Whether it was a short walk around the block or a longer stroll, it became a natural part of my routine. I was able to kill two birds with one stone—getting exercise and bonding with my baby.
4. Housework and Mental Clarity: Tidy While You Think
Another important habit I added to my day was keeping my spaces tidy. For me, a clean space means a clear mind. I’d pair tidying up with other tasks, like putting on a podcast or listening to an audiobook. As I folded laundry, wiped down surfaces, or swept the floors, I used the time to listen to something inspiring or educational. Not only did I feel productive, but I also felt mentally refreshed after clearing the clutter.
5. Stretching and Yoga: At-Home Self-Care
Even on days when I didn’t make it to the gym, I found ways to incorporate movement into my day. Stretching and yoga were two habits I stacked into my post-shower routine. After I got dressed, I would take 5-10 minutes to do some light stretching or yoga poses. It wasn’t a full workout, but it helped release tension in my body and set a calming tone for the day. Pairing it with something I was already doing (getting ready in the morning) made it so much easier to keep up.
The Key to Success: Consistency and Small Wins
The beauty of habit stacking is that it’s about small wins. Instead of trying to overhaul my entire lifestyle at once, I was able to integrate one tiny habit at a time. Each success—whether it was drinking my water, getting my workout in, or taking a few minutes for skincare—added up over time.
As a new mom, I was exhausted and overwhelmed, and trying to change everything at once would’ve felt impossible. But by stacking habits onto things I was already doing, I didn’t have to make drastic changes. I simply needed to be consistent. And over the course of months, I started noticing real, lasting results.
Why Habit Stacking Works for a Glow Up
Time Efficiency: By pairing habits with existing routines, you maximize your time. You don’t have to carve out extra hours to focus on your glow up—you can incorporate healthy habits into your existing schedule.
Increased Accountability: The more habits you stack, the more likely you are to stay consistent. It builds momentum and creates a cycle of success that motivates you to keep going.
Reduced Overwhelm: Trying to change too much at once can feel daunting. Habit stacking allows you to make small adjustments that lead to big results without the stress.
Built-In Reminders: Habit stacking creates built-in cues. When you pair a new habit with an existing one, you’re more likely to remember to do it because the routine is already familiar.
Final Thoughts
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the idea of a glow up, habit stacking is the perfect solution. It’s not about doing everything perfectly—it’s about making small, manageable changes that become second nature. Start with one habit, pair it with something you already do, and build from there. Before you know it, you’ll be glowing inside and out.
Remember, the journey to your glow up doesn’t have to be rushed. It’s about consistency, patience, and stacking those habits that will lead to long-term success. Try it for yourself, and let me know how habit stacking works for you!
A year ago, I was stuck in a rut. As a new mom, I was exhausted, overwhelmed, and frankly, not feeling like myself. Between the challenges of recovering from a C-section and adjusting to motherhood, I found myself constantly fatigued, struggling with simple things like climbing the stairs or picking up my baby. I knew something had to change but didn’t know where to start.
I had heard the term “glow-up” tossed around, but I never really took it seriously. For me, a glow-up wasn’t just about looking better—it was about feeling better in every way. I needed to elevate myself, not just physically but emotionally and mentally as well. That’s when I came across the 121 Glow Up Challenge by Angie Bellemare and the Daily Grind team. This program caught my attention because it offered a structured way to improve yourself with small, actionable steps.
What initially stood out to me was the idea of holistic transformation. This wasn’t about following a one-size-fits-all plan. The challenge addressed everything from skincare to fitness, from mindset to habits—everything I felt I was missing. I had spent so much time focusing on taking care of everyone else that I had neglected myself. This challenge gave me a roadmap to begin shifting my focus back to me.
Starting the Glow Up Challenge wasn’t easy. It required consistency, self-discipline, and a commitment to myself—something I hadn’t prioritized for a long time. But I knew I was worth it. I needed to get out of the funk I was in. I needed to rebuild my physical strength, regain my energy, and feel good in my own skin again.
The first month was challenging. I felt sore from workouts I hadn’t done in ages, and adjusting to new habits felt overwhelming at times. But slowly, I began to see changes. It wasn’t just about losing weight or looking better—it was about how I felt after completing each daily task. The more I stuck to the habits, the more I noticed my energy increasing, my skin improving, and my mindset shifting. I felt stronger, both physically and emotionally.
One of the most important lessons I learned was that a glow-up isn’t about achieving perfection. It’s about progress. It’s about embracing the journey and realizing that every step forward, no matter how small, matters. That first step in my glow-up journey was the hardest, but it was also the most important. It was the beginning of something new for me.
In this video, I dive deeper into the specifics of the challenge and how the habit-stacking technique helped me build consistency. But for now, I want to encourage anyone who’s feeling stuck or overwhelmed to start their own glow-up journey. It doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to start. And believe me, you’re worth every effort.
Elizabeth Yuen 