There’s something about back-to-school season that makes me want to get my act together, even though I haven’t been in school for decades. Maybe it’s all those fresh notebooks and new pencils, or maybe it’s just the relief of summer vacation chaos finally ending. Either way, August feels like the perfect time to hit the reset button on some habits that may have gotten a little loose over the summer.

Sleep Like You Mean It

Summer messes with all of our sleep schedules. Late dinners, vacation time zones, staying up too late because it’s still light outside at 9 PM. I get it. But consistent sleep is the foundation of looking and feeling your best! When you’re well-rested, your skin looks better, your decision-making improves, and you have the energy to actually put effort into your appearance instead of just throwing on whatever’s clean. Start by picking a realistic bedtime and sticking to it for a week. Not the bedtime you wish you had, but one you can actually maintain. And, get yourself a silk, zippered pillowcase. It will keep your hair in line and facial wrinkles away!

Your morning self will thank you.

Schedule Smarter, Not Harder

Summer schedules are all over the place, which can be fun but exhausting. Now’s the time to look at your calendar with fresh eyes. Block out time for the things that matter, including getting ready in the morning. I see too many women rushing through their routines because they didn’t plan for the time it actually takes to look polished. If you need 45 minutes to get ready properly, schedule 45 minutes. If you’re always running late, you’re starting every day stressed, and that shows.

Goodbye Boat Snacks, Hello Real Food

Let’s be honest about summer eating! Boat snacks, BBQ chips, ice cream every night because it’s hot, cocktails on every patio. It was fun while it lasted, but that kind of eating shows up in your energy levels, how your clothes fit, and even how your skin looks and feels! I’m not talking about dramatic diet changes, just getting back to basics. Real meals at regular times, vegetables that aren’t potato salad, water instead of rosé with lunch. Your body will adjust faster than you think, and you’ll feel more like yourself again.

Why This Matters for Your Image

When your basics are solid, everything else falls into place more easily. You make better clothing choices when you’re not rushing. Your skin looks clearer when you’re sleeping and eating well. You project confidence when you feel good in your routine. Having systems that support the professional image you want to maintain makes all the difference

The back-to-school energy is real, even for those of us long past homework and pop quizzes. Use that fresh-start momentum to recommit to the habits that make you feel like your best self. 

Small, consistent changes beat dramatic overhauls every time!