Friends, I’m finalllllly done! If you follow me on instagram, you already know that I graduated last week. It took me 8 long years, but it was worth the blood, sweat and tears. I’m officially Dr. Kong now, and I couldn’t be more proud. There’s SO much I want to tell you all, but I’m limiting myself because today’s topic of the day is *drum roll, please* beauty! Written in collaboration with one of my favorite brands ever – I’m looking at you, Olay – I’ll be sharing my beauty manifesto with you guys.
It’s no secret that I’m a huge advocate of hustling hard. I’m a bonafide go-getter, and I believe in the power of grit…but balance is key. I used to think I could go hard 25/7, but burnouts are real, my friends. Work your butt off and shoot for the stars, but remember to take care of yourself. Your body is your temple, and it’s up to you to make sure it stays strong, healthy, and beautiful. So, here are my non-negotiables:
1. Work out consistently.
No matter how busy life gets, exercise is an absolute must. Not only will you look sexy AF, you’ll be that much more focused during the day so it’s truly a win-win. Plus, it’ll put you in a great mood because of endorphins and all that jazz. Don’t think you have to go crazy though – a half hour is plenty unless you want to go hard. Just make sure you don’t set the bar TOO high because you don’t want to set yourself up for failure! I do T25 and supplement with extra cardio if I’m feeling extra motivated.
2. Drink lots of water and eat healthfully.
This is a biggie! I’m a huge advocate of meal prepping because it’s easy to eat garbage when you’re hangry and on the go. Pick a day to batch cook delish but clean eats so you’re not tempted to hit the nearest McDonald’s after work. Also, make sure you stay hydrated all day long – this is an important one, especially if you want to have clear skin. I have a giant water bottle with me at all times, and I drink a cup every 2 or so hours.
3. Get some much needed sunshine.
We all need our vitamin D, and fresh air is always a good idea, especially if you want to clear your mind. So, do yourself a favor and take a short 20 minute walk in the afternoon daily to reset on the regular. It’ll do your mind and body good! I spend about an hour or so outside everyday with the furbaby. I walk her for half an hour and play with her at the neighborhood dog park, and it’s something I look forward to every day.
4. Always remove your makeup before bedtime.
This is so, SO important. When I was in college and feeling dead tired, I’d go to sleep with my makeup on, and it did my skin so much harm. Makeup contains harmful chemicals that could cause premature aging and discoloration so sleeping with it on is no bueno. Plus, it’ll clog your pores and you’ll break out like crazy so take 5 minutes to wash your face on the regular. Slather on some solid face cream – Olay Regenerist is my go-to – and you’ll wake up with dewy skin that’s softer than a baby’s bottom.
5. SPF all day every day.
I don’t care if I’m outside or inside, I always make sure to wear sunscreen because I want to protect my skin from harmful rays. UV rays cause fine lines and wrinkles, and they increase one’s chance of getting skin cancer so be diligent and proactive, friends. I like using Olay Whips SPF 25 because it’s a magical beauty product that basically acts as 3 things at once: a makeup base, moisturizer and sunscreen. It’s super rich but absorbs quickly so you get max hydration without the grease.
6. Get enough sleep.
I used to be really bad about my zzzz’s but no more. I make sure to get at least 5-6 hours of sleep each night, and it makes all the difference in the world. Make sure you do your body good by giving it the rest it needs – your skin will also look a bajillion times better if you’re well rested so think of that as extra incentive.
7. Take a me day every once in a while.
Work hard, play hard. Every needs a day off, and a break can give you much needed perspective. If you feel guilty resting for a full day, take a half day for yourself each week or every two weeks. You’re human, and you can only do so much! It’s important to balance work with play…even if you love what you do! So treat yourself to an at home spa night, a hike with frands or [insert activity of choice] to reset your mind.
Now that you guys have read my full beauty manifesto, I want to hear some bulletpoints from yours so make sure y’all comment below. For more on skincare, check out this tab! And gotta give credit where credit’s due – thanks for the bomb photography, Sung Shin.
Congratulations!
Congratulations Dr. Kong….
Congrats Dr. beautiful Kimberly Kong
Congratulations! You can be so proud of you!
xx from Bavaria/Germany, Rena
http://www.dressedwithsoul.com