The Glow-Up Guide: Level Up Your Career in 2025

Here’s the thing about career growth: it’s not about throwing spaghetti at the wall to see what sticks. It’s about deliberate moves, smart strategies, and yes, a bit of courage to shake things up. Whether you’re gunning for a promotion, dreaming of launching your side hustle, or just trying to figure out what’s next, 2025 is your year to shine. Let’s talk tips, tricks, and a little tough love to help you boss up in your career this year.

In early 2024 I was standing at a career crossroads, staring down two paths: one familiar, safe, and well-trodden; the other, mysterious and unnervingly uncertain. For years, I’d poured my energy into a high-level role, climbing the ladder, earning accolades and mastering my domain. On paper, it was everything I’d worked for. But somewhere deep down, a little voice whispered, “Is this it?”

Spoiler alert: It wasn’t.

Yes, I made the leap. I walked away from a familiar job in search of something different—a career with higher income potential, better work-life balance and the chance to expand my horizons. And let me tell you, it was terrifying. Leaving behind the security of a long-established role and people I knew felt like jumping off a cliff without a parachute. But it also felt thrilling, like the beginning of a brand-new chapter where I got to write the rules.

At first, I doubted myself. Starting over at this stage of my career felt daunting, especially when I’d already “made it” by traditional standards. But as the months rolled on, I realized something beautiful: I wasn’t starting over. I was sharpening my skills, broadening my horizons and building a life that aligned with my values and dreams. By the end of the year, I had a job that didn’t just pay the bills but genuinely energized and fulfilled me. And you know what? You can too.

So, how did I go from doubting my every move to building a career that felt like a true glow-up? It wasn’t magic, luck, or a winning lottery ticket (although, wouldn’t that be nice?). It was a mix of self-reflection, strategic planning and a willingness to get uncomfortable. If you’re ready to take your career from meh to magnificent, here are the steps to make it happen. Trust me, it’s worth it.

1. Rewrite Your Career Story

First things first: stop waiting for someone else to see your brilliance. Grab a pen, a journal, or a fresh Google Doc and craft your narrative. Ask yourself:

• What have I accomplished that I’m insanely proud of?
• What’s missing in my story?
• What’s my big, audacious goal for this year?

Your career isn’t static, so why is your resume? Schedule an afternoon—complete with a coffee date for one—and update it to reflect the boss you’ve become. Hint: this is not the time for modesty. Use power words, quantify your achievements and toss outdated fluff like “proficient in Microsoft Word.” (Unless you’re applying for a job in 1999.) And don’t get frustrated, this type of work isn’t easy so if you’re feeling stuck give yourself a few sessions to really make it shine.

2. Get Obsessed with Learning

Learning doesn’t stop when you get your diploma. In fact, in a world where AI is automating jobs and industries are evolving faster than TikTok trends, staying relevant is non-negotiable. Here’s your game plan:

Books to Read:

• “You Are a Badass at Making Money” by Jen Sincero – A witty and empowering guide to shifting your mindset about wealth and success.
• “Lean In” by Sheryl Sandberg – Practical advice on navigating leadership and ambition.
• “Radical Candor” by Kim Scott – A masterclass on giving and receiving feedback like a pro.
• “Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It” by Chris Voss” – Influencing others and how to be effective in any situation, no matter the circumstances.

Courses to Consider:

• LinkedIn Learning: From Excel wizardry to leadership finesse, it’s packed with career gold. I’ve been using this FOR-EVER. There is nothing I hate more than complacency so I love to catch up on skills when I have downtime. (Plus lots of local libraries provide this service absolutely free of charge with a library card. Win!!)
• Coursera: Try their “Professional Certificates” in fields like data analytics, project management, or digital marketing.
• Masterclass: Learn from the masters on literally every subject. I’m personally a fan of the classes from Sara Blakely, Martha Stewart, Chris Voss and James Clear.

Podcasts to Bookmark:

• “The Marie Forleo Podcast” by Marie Forleo: Insightful advice on building a career and life you love.
• “Goal Digger” by Jenna Kutcher: Actionable tips for entrepreneurs and side hustlers.
  
• “The School of Greatness” by Lewis Howes: Some of the world’s most successful people talk about how they got to where they are today.

3. Expand Your Network

You’ve heard it before: your network is your net worth. But let’s move past the stale coffee chats and awkward small talk. Building meaningful connections is about being intentional, genuine, and strategic. Think of it as planting seeds—when you nurture relationships, they grow into opportunities.

Where to Start:

Mentorship: Reach out to someone you admire—a colleague, a leader in your field, or even that person whose LinkedIn posts always hit home. A thoughtful message, like sharing what you’ve learned from their work or asking for advice on a specific challenge, can open the door to a lasting professional relationship.

Industry Events: Virtual or in-person, industry events are where the movers and shakers gather. Research events relevant to your field, whether it’s a local meetup or a big-name conference. Don’t just attend—engage. Ask questions during Q&A sessions, introduce yourself to panelists, and follow up with a LinkedIn connection request. Pro Tip: Come prepared with a killer elevator pitch. Know how to sum up who you are, what you do, and where you’re headed in 30 seconds or less. Practice it until it feels natural, so when opportunity knocks, you’re ready to answer with confidence.

Virtual Communities: Check out Slack groups, Facebook communities, or Reddit threads in your field. Networking is a two-way street. Don’t just take—offer help, share resources, or give genuine compliments. People remember generosity.

4. Embrace Big, Scary Goals

Let’s be real: playing it safe is so 2024. Want to get noticed? Take risks. Apply for that job you think you’re underqualified for. (Yes, really.) Start that passion project you’ve been dreaming about. Raise your hand for the stretch assignment. Here’s how:

Action Step: Break down your goal into bite-sized pieces. Want to run your own business? Start by drafting a one-page plan and finding a mentor in your niche. Eyeing a leadership role? Shadow a current leader or volunteer to lead a challenging project.

Mindset Shift: Failure isn’t the opposite of success; it’s part of the process. Stop overthinking and start doing. Remember: it’s the effort you put in that builds resilience and skill, even if the outcome isn’t perfect.

Practical Tips:

• Write your goals somewhere visible—a sticky note on your mirror or a vision board above your desk.
• Celebrate progress, not just the end result. Every small win matters.
• Surround yourself with people who encourage boldness, not just comfort.

5. Audit Your Digital Presence

These days, your LinkedIn profile might be more important than your resume. Clean up your socials and make sure they’re sending the right message.

LinkedIn Checklist:

• A professional (but not boring) headshot.
• A headline that’s more than just your job title. Make it punchy!
• A compelling “About” section that reads like a story, not a list of buzzwords.
• Regular interaction: Like, comment, and share content from thought leaders in your industry.
• Post your own updates: Share work milestones, interesting articles, or lessons learned from projects.
• Build connections: Add people you meet professionally and engage with their posts.
• Participate in groups relevant to your industry or goals.
• Create content: Write articles or posts sharing insights or advice in your field.

Instagram/Facebook/Personal Website:

• Does it align with your career aspirations? (Or is it just memes and vacation pics?)
• Share work-related wins, insights, or thought-provoking content that showcases your expertise.
• Be mindful of your online image. If you’re connected with colleagues or community members, ensure your posts reflect your professional standards.
• Set your privacy settings to balance personal and professional boundaries.

Pro Tips:

• Google yourself: What comes up? Ensure your digital footprint represents you in the best light.
• Remove any outdated or irrelevant posts that might not align with the professional image you want to portray.
• Use tools like Canva to create posts that stand out.

6. Upgrade Your Habits

You can’t crush your career if you’re constantly running on empty. Burnout isn’t a badge of honor—it’s a roadblock. To truly thrive, you need habits that fuel your energy, sharpen your focus, and set you up for long-term success. Small, consistent changes can make a massive difference in how you show up every day.

Try this: 

• Time-Blocking: Think of your calendar as a fortress for your priorities. Dedicate blocks of time to focus on meaningful work without distractions. Start by scheduling your most important tasks when your energy is at its peak—maybe mornings for deep work or afternoons for brainstorming. Avoid letting emails or meetings hijack your productivity. Pro tip: Batch similar tasks together, like replying to emails in a single time block, to keep your momentum going
• Mindfulness: Stress doesn’t just kill your vibe—it kills your focus. Incorporating mindfulness into your day can help you regain clarity and calm. Start with a simple practice: take five minutes each morning to sit quietly, breathe deeply, and set an intention for your day. Apps like Calm or Insight Timer make it easy to get started, or you can create your own routine by journaling or simply reflecting on what you’re grateful for. Bonus: Mindfulness isn’t just for meditation—it can also mean focusing entirely on one task at a time, without distractions.
• Exercise for Energy: Exercise isn’t just about staying in shape—it’s about staying sharp. Physical activity boosts endorphins, improves mood, and even enhances cognitive performance. If you’re short on time, remember: it doesn’t have to be a marathon. A 20-minute walk during lunch, a quick yoga session at home, or even a dance break in your living room can help you reset and recharge.
• Habit Stacking: Make new habits stick by pairing them with something you already do. For example, while you brew your morning coffee, review your top three priorities for the day. Or, during your daily commute, listen to a podcast that inspires you. Small, intentional tweaks to your routine can snowball into lasting changes.

7. Get Feedback, Not Flattery

Tough love time: If everyone in your circle thinks you’re amazing, you need new feedback. Find someone who’ll give you the truth—whether it’s your boss, a mentor, or that brutally honest coworker.

How to Ask:

• “What’s one thing I could improve on?”
• “What’s holding me back from the next level?”

Take It Further:

• Actively seek out performance reviews and treat them as gold mines for growth.
• Join a mastermind group or career workshop where constructive criticism is part of the package.
• Follow up on feedback with specific action plans. Show that you’re not just listening but implementing.

Take the feedback, sit with it, and turn it into action. Growth isn’t always comfortable, but it’s worth it. Remember, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress.

8. Celebrate the Wins (Big and Small)

Look, career growth is a marathon, not a sprint. Take time to celebrate your progress. Landed a new client? Toast with a glass of champagne. Mastered a new skill? Treat yourself to that fancy notebook you’ve been eyeing.

Pro Tip: Keep a “brag file” of your wins. It’s not just for self-esteem; it’s ammo for your next performance review or job interview.

A FINAL WORD

Your career in 2025 is yours to shape. Dream unapologetically big, hustle smart, and have the guts to go after the life you’ve been envisioning. This isn’t just about climbing the ladder or padding your bank account—it’s about showing up for your purpose, chasing your passions, and building a life that feels like you. You’ve got the tools, the tips, and the drive—now go make it happen.