10 Easy Ways To Upgrade Your Lifestyle

Looking to elevate your lifestyle? Here are 10 simple habits and intentional upgrades that have genuinely transformed the way I live every day.

Photo Credit: Purroy Productions

I don't know what it is lately, but I've been in a season of wanting to reinvent myself. Maybe it's something that naturally happens as we get older. Maybe it's because life has a way of making you stop and think about who you are and who you want to become. Or maybe it's just a quarter life crisis 😂. Personally, I'm choosing to call it self discovery.

Now, don't get it twisted...I'm not looking to go from regular-schmegular Stephanie to someone I'm not. I'm still an introvert at heart. What I am trying to do is become a more intentional version of myself and continue discovering who I am while creating a life that feels more beautiful, more fulfilling, and more aligned with the woman I'm becoming.

The truth is, we never stop growing, learning, or evolving. As I've gotten older, I've realized just how valuable our time really is, and it's made me want to be more intentional about how I spend mine. That's one of the many reasons I love celebrations so much. Yes, it aligns perfectly with my business, Mariage Blanc Designs, but it goes far beyond weddings and soirées. I genuinely believe life is meant to be celebrated, even in the smallest, most ordinary moments.

Lately, I've found myself embracing life's simple pleasures. Wearing my favorite perfume on an ordinary Tuesday (though it's low-key running my pockets dry haha!!), booking the weekend getaway instead of putting it off, investing in quality pieces that I'll enjoy for years, Creating cozy spaces at home, slowing down enough to appreciate the little things that often go unnoticed. Ironically, those simple moments have made me feel far more luxurious than anything flashy ever could.

Don't get me wrong, I still don't mind the idea of sailing across St. Tropez on a private luxury yacht! 😂 But, the kind of lifestyle I'm talking about isn't necessarily about spending more money. It's about living more intentionally and finding beauty in the everyday.

I've even had people tell me lately that I'm glowing. And no...there isn't a bun in the oven. 😂 So maybe these little lifestyle upgrades are actually working! If you've been looking for simple ways to elevate your own everyday life, I hope these ideas inspire you as much as they've inspired me.

1.) Positive Thoughts

You're probably thinking, "Oh great...please don't let this be one of those woo woo blog posts." 😂 Trust me, it isn't because I don't do fluff. But I couldn't write a post about upgrading my lifestyle without starting here.

One of the biggest changes I've made over the last few years has had absolutely nothing to do with my wardrobe, skincare routine, or travel. It started with my mindset.

The way we speak to ourselves matters. The thoughts we allow to take up space in our minds matter. If you're constantly feeding yourself negativity, self doubt, or limiting beliefs, it's incredibly difficult to become the person you're striving to be.

One of the easiest ways I've learned to shift my mindset is by surrounding myself with words that inspire me. I save meaningful prayers, encouraging quotes, and little reminders that help me reset whenever life starts feeling overwhelming. In fact, I even created a Pinterest board filled with prayers, praise, and life advice that I revisit often because sometimes we all need a little reminder that everything is going to be okay. I'm not perfect, so it's been difficult to not fall into old patterns, but I get up & try again.

Of course, everyone's version of self improvement looks different. Maybe yours involves therapy, journaling, meditation, affirmations, or simply leaving encouraging notes around your home. Whatever helps you become the best version of yourself, lean into it. I've learned that upgrading your lifestyle doesn't begin with buying nicer things. It begins with creating a healthier mindset because when your mind is in the right place, everything else starts to follow.

2.) Retail Therapy

I don't know what it is, but lately I've definitely been bitten by the shopping bug. 😂 I'll shamelessly admit that I've always loved fashion and keeping up with new trends. And yes...sometimes a little retail therapy really does make me feel better. As long as it's done responsibly, I see absolutely nothing wrong with treating yourself every now and then.

One thing that has changed, though, is how I shop. As I've gotten older, I realized I was no longer excited about filling my closet with pieces I'd wear once or twice before moving on to the next trend. There is absolutely nothing wrong with wearing what you loved in your 20s. Trust me, I still have a few favorite pieces myself! But I've found myself becoming much more intentional with my wardrobe and developing a signature style that feels like me.

Instead of chasing trends, I now focus on building a timeless wardrobe filled with quality staples that I know I'll wear for years to come. Ironically, shopping with more intention has actually saved me money because I'm buying fewer pieces that I truly love instead of impulse purchases I'll eventually regret.

Lately, I've also been building a capsule wardrobe, which has completely changed the way I get dressed each morning. Everything mixes and matches beautifully, getting ready feels effortless, and my closet finally feels curated instead of cluttered.

Now don't get me wrong...I still love a good Zara find! In fact, the paisley dress in the photo above became one of my favorite purchases, and I still can't believe I snagged it on sale for only $39.95! It sold out almost immediately after I bought it, so sorry I have no link ☹️.

If you'd be interested in a future post about building a capsule wardrobe, shopping smarter, or finding your signature style, let me know in the comments. I could honestly talk fashion all day.

3.) Smell Like a Million Bucks

I firmly believe that if you're creating a signature style, it deserves a signature scent to go with it. There's just something about a beautiful fragrance that makes you feel instantly more put together and confident.

For years, my signature scent has was DKNY Cashmere Mist, and honestly, it still holds the number one spot in my collection. One of the reasons I love it so much is because I suffer from severe allergies and migraines, so overly strong fragrances and I simply don't get along. Cashmere Mist checks every box for me. It's soft, elegant, refined, and long lasting without leaving me reaching for the Tylenol. At least for me! Everyone's body chemistry is different, so finding your signature scent may take a little experimenting.

Speaking of experimenting...I've completely fallen back in love with perfume lately. The days of saving my favorite fragrances for "special occasions" are long gone. Life is the special occasion! Now I wear perfume every.single.day based entirely on my mood.

One fragrance I reach for constantly in the summer is Marc Jacobs Daisy & DKNY Apple. I'm absolutely obsessed with it! It's light, fresh, and perfect for summer (also if you're sensitive to strong scents like I am).

Then there's Carolina Herrera Very Good Girl. Full confession...I originally wanted it because the bottle is shaped like a fabulous red stiletto. 😂 I mean, I'm a sucker for beautiful packaging! Unfortunately, the fragrance itself ended up being much stronger than I anticipated and gave me one of those all day migraines. Totally my fault! But instead of letting it collect dust, I found another way to enjoy it. I lightly spray it on my coats a day or two before wearing them during the fall and winter, and it's absolutely perfect that way, not too overwhelming.

Another signature FAVORITE favorite is Yves Saint Laurent Libre Intense. I know...you're probably thinking, "Girl, didn't you just tell us strong fragrances give you migraines?" 😂 Somehow this one works for me. It's definitely richer and muskier than the others, but I absolutely love it. To me, it smells like someone's rich cousin or auntie, and honestly...that's exactly the vibe we're going for 😂.

If you're thinking, "Stephanie, parfums are expensive!" trust me...I completely understand. One of my favorite little luxury hacks is ordering fragrance samples before committing to a full size bottle. I usually order several at a time from MicroPerfumes so I can test them without spending a fortune. If I fall in love with one, I'll invest in the full bottle. If not, no harm done.

I've actually shared this tip with many brides online forums who want to look for a signature wedding fragrance, and they're always amazed that they never knew this was an option.

Sometimes feeling luxurious isn't about owning dozens of pricey perfumes. It's simply about finding the one that makes you feel like your best self every time you wear it.

4.) Health Is Wealth

As we get older, one thing becomes abundantly clear...Our bodies don't bounce back quite like they used to. A late night out, a tough workout, or even catching a simple cold seems to linger a little longer than it once did. But instead of looking at that as a negative, I've learned to see it as a reminder to start taking better care of myself.

After all, you only get one body.

Over the past few years, I've become much more intentional about prioritizing my health. Whether it's taking my daily vitamins, squeezing in a workout, drinking more water, or reaching for a spicy ginger shot at the first sign of feeling under the weather, I've realized that those little habits build up to good results over time.

One thing I always remind myself is that when you take care of yourself on the inside, it naturally shows on the outside. You have more energy, more confidence, and you simply feel better. And honestly, that's one of the greatest luxuries of all.

One thing I've also come to realize is that one of the best beauty treatments doesn't need to come in a syringe (though no judgment if that's your jam!!). Personally, for me, it's consistently working out, eating healthier, getting quality sleep, staying hydrated, and making healthy lifestyle choices. These routines result in a stronger body, healthier skin, better posture, more energy, and, YES, even a more sculpted face and defined jawline. We like that for us!

5.) Glowy Skincare Routine

Remember how I said working on your inside would eventually reflect on your outside? Well, the previous tips were all an accoutrement to the outside, but THIS...This is literally taking care of the largest organ of your body: Your skin.

I've always believed that healthy, glowing skin isn't about perfection. It's about consistency.

Unfortunately, I didn't leave my hormonal acne back in high school where it belongs. 😂 Even in my 30s, I still deal with the occasional breakout, oily combination skin, and hyperpigmentation. Lucky me! But after years of trying what feels like every skincare product under the sun, I've finally found a routine that genuinely works for me.

Believe it or not, good old Proactiv is still the foundation of my skincare routine. It has consistently helped keep my breakouts under control, but over the years I've added a few staple products to help liven up my complexion, fade dark spots, and give my skin that healthy glow-Even if I suffer from hyperpigmentation, I always find ways to get glowier haha!!

One thing I've learned is that skincare isn't about having the most expensive products or trying every trend that pops up on social media. It's about finding products that work for your skin and sticking with them. Consistency will almost always outperform constantly chasing the next miracle product.

I've found that when my skin looks healthy, I naturally feel more confident. I wear less makeup, spend less time trying to cover imperfections, and simply feel more like myself. That's one of the biggest lifestyle upgrades of all.

If you're curious about the products I personally use and genuinely stand behind, I've linked my favorite skincare products here & I'll do a step-by-step rundown of what it is I do as well.

6.) Selfcare & Grooming Maintenance

Ahhh...Self care. One of the most overused buzzwords these days . Social media has somehow convinced us that self care has to involve a luxurious spa day, expensive candles, fluffy robes, and cucumber slices over your eyes. While all of that sounds lovely, I've learned that self care can be whatever you need it to be.

For me, it isn't always glamorous. Sometimes it's reading a good book, spending time in the garden, taking a nap, treating myself to a slice of chocolate cake, getting my eyebrows done, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon with absolutely nothing on my schedule.

And can we talk about massages for a second? 😂 I know everyone swears by them, but they just aren't my thing. Maybe I haven't found the world's greatest massage therapist yet, or maybe it's my anxiety refusing to relax, or maybe it's that 1-time I couldn't turn my head side-to-side for an entire week after I got a free massage at the nail salon 😂, but I usually leave feeling more tense than when I walked in. Instead, I prefer using my massager after a long event or workout, and it has honestly been a lifesaver.

The biggest lesson I've learned is that self care isn't something you squeeze in whenever you have time. You have to make time for it.

The same goes for grooming maintenance. Whether it's your hair appointment, a fresh manicure, a brow wax, or whatever makes you feel your best, put it on the calendar. Scheduling those appointments in advance makes it so much easier to stay consistent instead of waiting until you desperately need them. But not gonna lie, there are definitely times you might catch me missing 3 nails...Sometimes it's just inevitable with life's demands haha!!

I've definitely been guilty of putting myself last from time to time, especially when life gets busy. But I've learned that when I take care of myself, I show up as a better version of myself in every other area of my life. Because the truth is...you really do look your best when you feel your best.

7.) Reset Cleaning Day

One of my favorite ways to reset my life is by resetting my home.

There's just something about a clean, organized space that instantly puts me in a better mood. I don't know about you, but when my house is cluttered, my mind usually feels cluttered right along with it.

On the flip side, when everything is clean, organized, and back in its place, I immediately feel lighter, more productive, and ready to tackle the week ahead.

I've turned my weekly reset into a ritual that I actually look forward to. Fresh sheets on the bed, laundry folded and put away, countertops wiped down, floors vacuumed, a candle burning, and my favorite playlist in the background. It's amazing how something so simple can completely shift your mindset.

And can we all agree that climbing into bed after an everything shower with freshly washed sheets is one of life's greatest luxuries? 😂 I don't know what magic lives inside clean sheets, but it just hits different.

I've also learned that having a clean home doesn't mean your house has to look like a magazine 24/7. Life gets busy, and sometimes dishes sit in the sink a little longer than we'd like. The goal isn't perfection. It's creating a space that feels peaceful, welcoming, and allows you to recharge.

For me, a reset cleaning day isn't really about cleaning at all. It's about creating an environment where I feel my best. And when my home feels good, somehow everything else starts to fall into place.

8.) Dating Yourself

One of the greatest gifts I've ever given myself was learning how to enjoy my own company.

For the longest time, I felt like certain experiences had to be shared with someone else. Dinner reservations, travel, concerts, museums, weekend getaways, trying that new restaurant...I always felt like I needed someone to go with me. Then one day I thought, "Why am I waiting?"

Life is happening right now.

So I started taking myself out on dates.

Sometimes it's grabbing a coffee and wandering through a bookstore. Other times it's treating myself to dinner, exploring a museum, taking a day trip, or booking a solo getaway. And honestly? Some of those outings have become my favorite memories.

Don't get me wrong, I absolutely love spending time with my family and friends. But I've learned that enjoying your own company is a different kind of confidence. It's realizing that your happiness doesn't have to depend on someone else's schedule, availability, or willingness to join you. Plus, I've always lowkey been sort-of a loner if I'm honest.

If you've been putting something off because you don't have someone to go with, consider this your sign to go anyway!

Life is simply too short to keep waiting for the "perfect" time. Some of the best experiences begin the moment you decide to take yourself along for the ride.

9.) Quick Getaways

One of the best investments I've made in myself is making time to get away, even if it's only for a day or two.

For the longest time, I thought a vacation had to be this huge production. A week off from work, expensive flights, months of planning, and a perfectly curated itinerary. Well, ok, it kind-of still is all those things haha!! But, while those trips are wonderful, I've learned that sometimes all you really need is a quick change of scenery.

Whether it's Miami, a cozy cabin in the Poconos, parading down the French Quarter in New Orleans, exploring caribbean islands like Puerto Rico & Jamaica, or taking an evening stroll through Savannah's Monterey Square, quick getaways have a fun way of giving you exactly what you didn't realize you needed.

Travel has a way of resetting me. It reminds me to slow down, step away from my daily routine, and appreciate the beauty that's waiting beyond my front door. Every destination doesn't have to be exotic to leave a lasting impression.

If a big vacation isn't in the budget or schedule right now, don't underestimate the power of a quick weekend getaway. A change of scenery, even for a day or two, can do wonders for your mind, your creativity, and your overall well being.

Some of my favorite adventures have been the ones I almost talked myself out of taking. Sometimes you don't have to travel far to feel refreshed. You just have to be willing to go SOMEWHERE.

10.) Gift Me Please:

Let's be honest...how many times has someone asked, "What do you want for your birthday?" only for your mind to immediately go blank?

Yep...me too.

That's exactly why I started keeping an ongoing wish list throughout the year.

Whenever I come across something I genuinely love, whether it's a beautiful handbag, a kitchen gadget, a good book, home décor, or even something practical, I simply add it to my list. Then, when birthdays, holidays, or special occasions roll around, I already have thoughtful ideas ready to share instead of scrambling to think of something at the last minute.

It also helps prevent those impulse purchases where I convince myself I need something, only to realize a week later that I really didn't. If I still want it after it's been sitting on my wish list for a while, then I know it's something I'll actually enjoy.

And here's a little bonus...It makes gift giving so much easier for everyone else. Your family and friends don't have to guess what you'd like, and you end up receiving things you'll genuinely use and appreciate. That's a win for everybody.

So, like I said, sometimes upgrading your lifestyle isn't about buying more things. It's about being intentional with the things you bring into your life.

Well guys...That's all for now! I really hope you found these tips extremely helpful! Be sure to share this blog with your family, friends, colleagues, and anyone else who you think could benefit from elevating their lifestyle!

And, if you're ready to implement some of my tips to help elevate your life, then you're gonna want to grab my Ultimate Planner that helps you get right!

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Disclaimer: Although, everything I share is my truth, this post contains affiliate links. This means that I may earn a commission should you choose to make a purchase using my link. No worries, I wouldn't recommend anything that I don't wholeheartedly stand by!

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