IZZY UTTERSON

In Izzy Utterson’s world, mindset is everything. A UK-based creator, podcast host and wellness advocate, Izzy made it her mission to share insights on self-development, confidence and mental wellbeing. Through her social channels and podcast conversations, she empowers her audience to reframe mindsets, embrace personal growth and make self-care a non-negotiable part of daily life.

Her approach is refreshingly real. Izzy speaks openly about coping strategies, morning routines that set up positive habits and the small, intentional rituals that make a big difference in everyday life. She continues to inspire her community with practical and authentic advice. From habit stacking (when you create a new habit by attaching it an existing daily routine) and beauty routines to her inspirations and her signature Glow Up method, this is a day in the life of Izzy Utterson.

When I first wake up I…
…avoid my phone and give my nervous system a moment to wake up gently. I take a few slow breaths to signal safety to my brain and then I repeat simple affirmations like I am calm, I am focused, I am exactly where I need to be today. It sets my subconscious before cortisol spikes and before the outside world has a say.

What gets me out of bed every day is my drive for momentum and identity.
Neuroscience shows we act in alignment with who we believe we are, so each day is a chance to reinforce that version of myself. I am motivated by becoming more regulated, more grounded, and more intentional over time.

My typical morning routine involves…
…Hydrating first to support brain function and energy with my ‘loaded’ morning water, then eating a protein focused breakfast to stabilise blood sugar and dopamine levels. Movement comes next because it increases BDNF which supports focus and mood. I then shower, get ready, and ease into work once my brain is switched on rather than forcing productivity too early.

Habit stacking works for me because…
…the brain loves efficiency. I pair habits together so they become automatic, for instance playing frequencies or affirmations whilst brushing my teeth. Skincare becomes mindfulness. Coffee becomes planning. Walking becomes nervous system regulation. It reduces decision fatigue and makes consistency easier.

My beauty routine is about supporting my skin barrier and nervous system.
For me, my routine is really about kindness and intention. I love starting with Jo Malone London body cream. I take a moment to speak kindly to myself while nourishing my skin. It sounds simple, but that little ritual sets the tone for my whole day. Then I habit-stack by popping on Charlotte Tilbury eye patches while I’m doing the rest of my morning routine. It feels luxurious but practical, like self-care that actually fits into real life. Skincare-wise, I go in with The INKEY List azelaic acid because it’s amazing for calming redness, smoothing texture, and giving my skin that healthy, balanced look without irritation. For makeup, I keep it fresh and glowy with Hollywood Flawless Filter and a duo lip liner just to add a soft pop, nothing super heavy, just enhanced. The whole vibe is natural, glowing, and effortless, like me but well-rested.

Exercise keeps me emotionally resilient and mentally clear.
Movement regulates my nervous system. It lowers stress hormones and increases serotonin and dopamine which directly affects how I think and feel, which is why it is essential for me.

Strength training is my anchor.
It helps build confidence and long term health. I mix this with walking and lower intensity movement like mega-former pilates at Enmei studios, my favourite spot, to keep cortisol balanced. My routine is structured but flexible because consistency matters more than perfection.

When I workout I wear supportive, comfortable pieces.
Clothing that allows me to move freely. When I feel good in what I am wearing my brain associates movement with positive reinforcement which makes it easier to stay consistent. I love SKIMS, it literally feels like a second skin and looks smart enough to take you from workout to meeting.

My style is elevated but effortless.
What I wear influences how I show up because the brain responds to visual cues. Dressing with intention helps me shift into the mindset I need for the day. I keep it super simple. I’m building a capsule wardrobe with brands that fall effortlessly, fit well, and feel good. This is especially important for when I'm giving talks and rushing about all day!

I definitely take inspiration from others but…
…I always adapt it to suit me. For me, the goal is embodiment rather than imitation. When you try to copy someone exactly, it never quite lands, but when you interpret an energy or a feeling in a way that feels authentic, your confidence follows naturally.

I’m really inspired by women like Pia Mance, Bryony Deery, and Morgan Stewart. They all have this effortless, polished approach to style that feels chic and intentional without ever looking overdone.

I’m drawn to clean tailoring, elevated basics, and silhouettes that feel put-together but still functional and comfortable, pieces you can actually live in. That balance is really important to me. I want my style to feel timeless, confident, and easeful, like an extension of who I am rather than something I’m performing.

The transition in my working life has really been about…
…alignment. Over the past few years, I’ve found my ikigai, that intersection of what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be supported by. Once I understood that, everything started to make sense. My work no longer felt fragmented; it felt purposeful.

I’m incredibly grateful to be doing something that genuinely lights me up while also creating value for others. That sense of gratitude grounds me every day, because I know how rare and special it is to feel fulfilled, challenged, and excited by your work all at once.

A huge part of this journey has also been the people. Being surrounded by such inspiring, generous, and supportive individuals in this industry has made all the difference.

I’ve been championed, encouraged, and lifted up by people who truly believe in collaboration over competition, and that support has given me the confidence to step fully into my own path.

Just as importantly, I believe in showing up the same way for others. Growth feels most meaningful when it’s shared, and when you’re part of a community that celebrates each other’s wins, it creates an environment where everyone rises together.

A typical working day involves…
…Deep work and learning in the morning, when my energy and focus are at their best. That’s when I’ll spend time researching, thinking, writing, or working on anything that requires clarity and creativity without distractions.

As the day goes on, things become more collaborative and outward-facing. I’ll work on events, prepare for talks, and move different projects forward, whether that’s planning, meetings, or creative direction. Content creation usually weaves throughout the day as well, capturing moments as they happen or sharing what I’m working on in a way that feels natural and aligned.

I like having a rhythm that balances quiet, focused time with connection and creativity. That structure helps me stay grounded, productive, and inspired, while still leaving space for flexibility and new opportunities.

The best part of my day is…
...The quiet moments where my nervous system is calm. After movement and a shower when my brain chemistry is balanced and everything feels clear!

Lunch usually looks like…
...Balanced meals with protein, fibre, and fats. Nutrition directly impacts hormones, mood, and focus. Stable blood sugar means a calmer brain and more consistent energy.

The Glow Up method for me is…
…Rooted in self-concept. It’s about how you see yourself, how you speak to yourself, and the standards you hold for your life. That’s not something you ever fully “complete”, it’s an ongoing relationship you build with yourself as you grow and evolve.

In my day to day life, it shows up in small, intentional choices. Prioritising personal development, staying curious, and constantly learning all help me stay aligned with who I want to become. Growth isn’t just about productivity or success, it’s about depth, self-awareness, and giving yourself room to expand.

Hobbies are a huge part of that too. They create space for joy, creativity, and play, which are just as important as ambition. Having interests outside of work keeps you grounded, inspired, and connected to yourself in a way that feels nourishing rather than performative.

So no, I don’t feel like I’ve “nailed it”, and I don’t think that’s the point. The Glow Up method is a constant process of refinement, self-trust, and becoming. As you grow, your glow evolves with you, and that’s what makes it feel real and sustainable.

My drive comes from…
…alignment and impact. I want to grow in a way that supports my health, creativity, and long term wellbeing while helping others do the same.

My career highlight to date is… …Creating something that reflects my values and seeing people genuinely benefit from it. That feedback loop is incredibly motivating. Some of my public speaking ventures, notably happy place festival last year which was my biggest talking event to date, this was incredible. Also being a guest on Bryony Deery and Rochelle Humes podcasts…I have a feeling 2026 however is going to be full of amazing highlights so watch this space!

How I unwind is…
…by lowering stimulation. Softer lighting, slower pace, minimal screens. This helps my brain shift out of alert mode and into rest mode.

The last book I read was…
…The Source by Dr Tara Swart, and I loved how it bridges neuroscience with personal growth in a really practical, empowering way.

What I took from it most is the idea that our mindset, habits, and environment actively shape our reality. It reinforced how important self-belief, intention, and consistency are, not in a fluffy way, but in a grounded, science-backed sense. It reminded me that growth is both internal and actionable, and that when you align your thoughts with your behaviours, real change becomes possible.

The most important nighttime rituals for me are…
…Skincare, gentle stretching visualisation, and a clear boundary between work and rest. Sleep quality affects everything so I protect it.

Dinner is usually…
…simple nourishing meals that support recovery and digestion. Nothing complicated, just intentional and satisfying. I love a Pho, a pokê bowl or even just a simply protein and veg. Something easy to digest and comforting!

The last thing I do before bed is…
…I put my phone away, slow my breathing, and visualise the version of my life I am building. I picture specific moments, how I want to feel in them, and the calm confidence I move through them with. Visualisation works because the brain does not fully distinguish between imagined and real experiences. It activates the same neural pathways, reinforcing familiarity and safety around future goals.

Doing this before sleep is powerful because the subconscious is most receptive, allowing those patterns to be consolidated overnight. It helps me fall asleep regulated, grounded, and aligned with where I am going.