All over Tiktok at the moment, there are girls trying to be ‘That Girl’ for 2022. They are going to the gym, making green smoothies, getting up at 6am, journaling, having an intensive skincare routine, etc. The lifestyle is very inspirational, and even I have been sucked into wanting to change my entire life to be like these girls who seem to have it all together. But what I quickly realised is that it’s completely unrealistic for me to do that.

First of all, ‘That Girl’ does not have any specific body aesthetic or specific look. I’m sure we have all seen slim girls, with gorgeous luxurious hair and abs. But you can look like this, and be miserable. It’s a lifestyle, not a look. Being ‘That Girl’ is an essence or just being the best version of yourself. It’s about feeling good, not looking good. 

@kaylieestewart part 1 of becoming the best version of yourself in 2022 🤍🥬 #motivation #thatgirl #healthylifestyle #healthylifestylechange #fyp ♬ this is what falling in love feels like - JVKE

Get organised/Schedule what you need to do

The first thing you need to do is figure out what you need to do to be the best version of yourself. Do you want to get up earlier? Go to the gym? Eat healthier? Improve your mental health? Figure out what aspects need changing and what you’re going to do to achieve them. This doesn’t mean you have to copy other people and get up at 5am. It means, finding what works best for you. What is going to make you the most productive or feel the best during the day?

I would also suggest organising your environment to make these changes as easy as possible. Forming new habits is difficult, so whatever you can do to make it easier will make them easier to stick to. For example, laying out your workout outfit the night before or pre-making your meals. 

Eat what’s best for you body

The green smoothies on Tiktok look appealing but realistically, I’m never going to do this. Not anytime soon anyway! Dieting and weight loss shows up constantly in January and it can be anxiety provoking and make us feel bad about ourselves. Being ‘That Girl’ doesn’t mean only eating salads, smoothies and protein shakes (unless this is what you love, then go for it!). It’s about making sure what you’re eating is nourishing your body. You need to be getting your vitamins and protein and the stuff that helps you be healthier. But if you want pizza one night, then go for it! Donuts? Yes please. It’s not about restricting yourself to a hyper healthy diet that you don’t enjoy because you’ll end up failing quickly. It’s more about making small changes to your diet to include healthier options that are nourishing your body and when you want some chocolate, enjoy it. Everything in moderation.

Move your body to feel good

Personally, I love the gym, but I understand not everyone is a fan or doesn’t feel comfortable there. Exercise is more than just losing weight. It is for your mental health as well as your physical health. So in order for you to do it regularly, you need to find a form of fitness that you enjoy! This could be dance, boxing, walking, climbing, horse-riding, ice-skating, literally just anything that gets your body moving and makes you feel good. 

Get in the right headspace

When you are exercising, nourishing your body, getting into an organised routine, and have a consistent sleeping pattern, you’ll find that this naturally helps your mental health. But obviously, if you are going through a particularly tough time, this alone can help, but can’t cure all mental health problems. If being ‘That Girl’ means being the best version of yourself, this also means being in a positive headspace. And you may need professional help to do this, like a therapist or counsellor. But there are also things you can do to improve your happiness and learn to heal any traumas. For example, journaling is a great way to increase your self-awareness, positivity, memory, and so much more. It’s brilliant for challenging your mindset and reflecting on your life. You could also try a counsellor or therapist. There are also support groups out there or even just having a deep talk with a loved one. Being ‘That Girl’ means improving your mindset to be positive, productive and happy. 

Small changes over big 

I think the main thing you need to remember about becoming ‘That Girl’ in 2022, is that if you make a lot of BIG changes overnight, you’re going to struggle to maintain your new lifestyle. It’s too difficult to keep up those new habits. It’s better to make a few smaller changes and work your way towards that lifestyle. It’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey. Take your time, make small realistic steps and you’ll get there easier and quicker. 

At the end of the day, being ‘That Girl’ means being your best and most authentic self. You shouldn’t want to be like some girl on Tiktok. You should want to be happy and comfortable in your own skin and finding the joy in life. SHE is the ultimate ‘That Girl’.

Journals to help you become 'That Girl'

Wellbeing Journal

Happiness Journal

Health Journal