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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at FSU chapter.

While many of us have always strived to be the best version of ourselves, the definition of best is quite vague when attempting to define ourselves. Luckily, we have TikTok, the wonderful app that has given us a step-by-step guide on how to achieve a more refined version of ourselves. Gone are the days of attempting to be our “best” selves. We can now chase after gaining the status of “That Girl.”

To begin my journey toward becoming “That Girl,” I had to do some research to find out what the guidelines and practices one should follow to become the effortless star of any room. Through my hours of scrolling through TikTok, watching YouTube videos and completing field research by observing “That Girls” in real life, I have narrowed the criteria down to a five-step formula.

  1. Being organized and planning
  2. Performing daily exercise
  3. Practicing good hygiene and self-care
  4. Dressing minimalistic
  5. Drinking water and eating aesthetically pleasing meals

I decided to commit myself to becoming “That Girl.” I gave myself a week to test out different strategies and the validity of the formula. Throughout the week, I tried to reach each goal, but given that being “That Girl” is a lifestyle, I decided to embrace the mindset and not be too rigid with the criteria.

Monday & Tuesday:

Day 1 HC
Original photo by Lili Verrastro

I began the week by appointing my friend to be my personal trainer. I have only ever used cardio machines and rarely go to the gym. On the first day, I began the workout with the infamous 12-3-30 workout and met my “trainer” to complete a weight workout. While I can’t say I saw an immediate change in myself, I felt more energized and confident leaving the gym. On Tuesday, I didn’t have time to go to the gym, but I treated myself to an acai bowl and went to an art museum. I will admit: taking the time out of the day for planned activities was really nice. By taking the time to reward myself and break my routine, I felt a lot calmer and was able to fall asleep a lot easier (not sure if that was only because of my “That Girl” routine or other factors).

Wednesday, Thursday & Friday:

Day 2 Hc
Original photo by Lili Verrastro

On Wednesday, I was so excited because prior to deciding I was going to become “That Girl,” my friends had planned a picnic. The picnic was so perfect and I wore a cute spring outfit with the “cottage core” aesthetic in mind. On Thursday, I decided to treat myself to a new pair of shoes and style them with an effortless minimalist vibe. A really positive thing I like about the “That Girl” aesthetic is how timeless the wardrobe is. Unlike y2k and other micro-trends, the apparel for “That Girl” is all neutral basics that will never go out of style. I finished Friday by meeting my friends for dinner and getting a poke bowl.

Saturday & Sunday:

Day 3 Hc
Original photo by Lili Verrastro

For my last two days, I continued to drink lots of water and work out. I decided to also focus on the self-care aspect. As I continued going to the gym, it became something I looked forward to every day. While my body was gaining strength, I realized I hadn’t taken the time to care for my face or mind. I started the night by putting on my new hairband and doing a hair mask and face mask. While I let them sit, I decided to listen to guided meditation. It was really soothing, and at that moment, I realized how positive these criteria’s impacts have been on my week.

All in all, I enjoyed using the TikTok template to become “That Girl.” While nothing drastically changed during this week, I can see how impactful the lifestyle can be. I think that the criteria are not outlandish and push us to implement good practices into our lives. However, like any other trend on the internet, it is important to set realistic standards. I had fun challenging myself and switching up my routine this week. I plan to continue many of the practices. So, regardless of whether these activities make me “That Girl” or the “best version” of myself, I know I am bettering myself and implementing good habits in my life.

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I'm a Junior double majoring in Marketing and Management Information Systems at Florida State University. I love vegan food, traveling, and listening to music!