Why Morning Sex Might Be the Secret to Crushing Your Workday

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November 12, 2025

Self-care doesn’t always have to look like journaling or meditating. Sometimes, it’s rolling over, connecting with your body, and starting your day with something that actually makes you feel good.

You can keep your green juice. Honestly, you can keep your journaling habit, too, because the real secret to a better morning might just be sex.

According to a ZipHealth survey, people who have morning sex say they feel 71% more productive, 58% more focused, and 57% more motivated throughout the day. And honestly? That checks out — morning sex is like a shot of espresso to your nervous system.

The science of starting your day with an orgasm

It’s not just your imagination that you feel better after a morning quickie. Your body’s literally built for it. Hormones like testosterone are higher in the morning, which means your libido gets a natural boost before your brain has even logged on. Add in oxytocin — the cuddle hormone — and you’ve got an instant mood lift that no iced coffee can compete with.

The ZipHealth survey even found a surprising link between morning sex and success at work. Around 30% of American workers said a healthy sex life boosted their income or career advancement. Among those who have morning sex, over half said they’d gotten a raise in the last year, and nearly 1 in 5 said they’d been promoted.

So maybe there’s something to that “get laid, get paid” energy after all. When you start your day feeling connected and confident, it kind of makes sense that you’d tackle your inbox like a boss.

couple snuggling in bed — Image courtesy of Unsplash

But this isn’t another “optimize your life” hack

Let’s get one thing straight: morning sex isn’t about being a more productive worker bee. We’re not turning intimacy into a LinkedIn strategy, okay? It’s about slowing down and actually feeling something good before the world starts asking things from you.

It’s easy to wake up and immediately scroll, stress, and sprint into your day. But taking a few minutes to focus on your body, whether that’s with a partner or solo, reminds you that you exist for more than your to-do list.

It’s self-care, but make it spicy

We talk about self-care like it has to come in the form of bubble baths and affirmations, but sometimes it’s just choosing pleasure first. Morning sex hits that sweet spot between cozy and chaotic. Sheets messy, hair wild, no pressure to “perform,” just a connection.

And if you’re single? Even better. Morning self-pleasure can be the ultimate confidence kick. You’re literally starting your day by reminding yourself that you can make yourself feel good.

two people's feet intertwined at the end of a bed — Image courtesy of Unsplash

Of course, not every morning is a sexy morning

Real talk: some days you’re too tired, too grumpy, or just not in the mood, and that’s fine. This isn’t about adding another thing to your wellness checklist. It’s simply about remembering that feeling good in your body is an essential part of taking care of yourself.

Even if you’re not up for a full-on romp, maybe it’s a slow kiss before you leave for work. Maybe it’s five minutes of cuddling. Maybe it’s just taking a deep breath before you grab your phone. It all counts.

Morning sex isn’t some productivity hack or secret life upgrade, it’s just one of the easiest, most human ways to start your day on your own terms. You don’t need a $50 face mask or a seven-step routine. Sometimes, the best self-care is rolling over, smiling, and choosing pleasure first.

Welcome to our new column at The Girly Pop Register that is strictly for the girls. Indulge in all life has to offer here.

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Your 20s Feel Weird Because You’re Going Through a Second Puberty

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Olivia Salamone

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November 12, 2025

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No one tells you that your 20s might come with a sequel to puberty. The breakouts, body changes, mood swings — they’re not random. As your hormones recalibrate after adolescence, your body goes through a subtle but powerful transformation.

I am not a doctor. Be sure to discuss any of the recommendations with your healthcare provider before trying!

No one warns you that your 20s can feel like puberty, part two. Your skin is suddenly breaking out again, your boobs feel different, your hair texture changes, and your emotions? A full-on rollercoaster.

Biologically, there’s actually something to it. As your body settles into full adulthood, hormone levels, especially estrogen and progesterone, start to shift again. For some people, that means acne flares, new period symptoms, or even changes in libido. Add in stress, birth control, alcohol, and irregular sleep schedules (hi, burnout culture), and you’ve got a recipe for hormonal chaos.

But it’s not just physical. There’s a mental and emotional puberty, too. The kind where you suddenly start outgrowing people, jobs, and habits that used to feel like “you.” You’re forming a second identity in real time: realizing what actually feels good, what doesn’t, and who you are without all the teenage noise.

Second puberty is messy. You might feel too young for the responsibilities you have, but too old for the chaos you used to crave. You might feel uncomfortable in your own body — again — or like you’re meeting yourself for the first time. Both can be true.

So, if you’ve been wondering why everything feels like it’s shifting, from your skin to your sense of self, maybe it’s because it is. Puberty 2.0 isn’t a regression. It’s a recalibration.

Welcome to womanhood’s awkward middle school era. Again.

1. Brain development: the behind-the-scenes upgrade

Even though you’re legally an adult, your brain is still under construction. Studies have found that key brain regions continue to mature into the 20s. For example:

woman with acne — Image courtesy of Unsplash

A review of neuroimaging data shows that the adolescent brain continues to mature well into the 20s, especially in the frontal lobes (areas responsible for planning, impulse control, and decision-making).
In women’s brains specifically, a metabolic imaging study found that, in participants in their 20s, women’s brains appeared “younger” (in a metabolic sense) than men’s.

Why this matters

Because your emotional regulation, impulse-control, stress response, and even how you make big life decisions are still being shaped.
It might partly explain why you feel “in flux.” You may cognitively and emotionally be somewhere between adolescent and fully settled adult. So the weirdness? Totally valid.

2. Hormones & your body doing its own thing

Your 20s are a time of hormonal recalibration. While you’re past puberty, your body still has a lot going on.

One resource describes how in your 20s your reproductive hormones, like estrogen and progesterone, are “stabilizing after the roller-coaster of adolescence,” and you’re at “peak fertility.”
Hormonal systems remain active: A 2022 paper found that adrenal and gonadal hormones continue to increase into the late teens/early 20s.
The phrase “second puberty” isn’t a formal medical term, but it’s used to describe bodily shifts in your 20s, 30s, and beyond.

What you may notice

Changes in body composition. Maybe your metabolism has shifted, and weight feels “easier” to gain or harder to lose.
Skin/hair shifts: Acne on your face and body, hair texture changes or falls out, and scalp-oilyness alters.
Menstrual or cycle changes: Even if your cycle has been “regular,” you may notice new irregularities, heavier or lighter flow, or more pronounced PMS-type symptoms.
Bone/muscle: Around this age, you hit peak bone mass (women especially) — but also if you’re doing extreme dieting, overtraining, or neglecting nutrients, you could compromise that.

woman pressing hands to lower back — Image courtesy of Unsplash

3. Why the “weird” part feels so loud

Putting the brain + body pieces together helps explain the discomfort:

You’re navigating major life changes (jobs, relationships, independence) while your biology is still adjusting.
Your brain’s wiring (especially in areas that govern self-control, risk, and emotion) is still maturing, so when you hit stress, you may not respond the way you’d expect, or you might feel more emotionally raw.
Your hormones are still recalibrating, meaning your mood, energy levels, skin, etc., may feel unpredictable.
Society expects you to have it all together by your late 20s—but biologically, you’re not necessarily “done” changing.

**4. What you can do**

Strength training + movement: Because bone mass peaks in your 20s, building and maintaining muscle helps lock in that advantage.
Sleep and recovery: Your brain and body both benefit hugely from consistent sleep. Less sleep = more stress, more hormonal fluctuation.
Nutrient-dense diet: Good fats, protein, vitamins, minerals help hormone production, brain health, skin/hair.
Mind-body practices: Stress alters hormones (cortisol) and impacts brain wiring. Yoga/meditation/therapy can help.
Check-ins with healthcare: If your cycle shifts dramatically, you have persistent acne/hair changes, or mood shifts you’re worried about, speak to a provider. Some changes are normative; others may signal a hormonal imbalance or thyroid issue.
Self-compassion: Understand that feeling “weird” isn’t abnormal, it’s a sign you’re in a second wave of growth. Give yourself permission to not be perfect.

Your 20s are often described as the “decade of becoming,” and that label may make more sense now. Your brain is still fine-tuning, your hormones are calibrating, your body is adapting. The weirdness? It’s part of the process.

Welcome to our new column at The Girly Pop Register that is strictly for the girls. Indulge in all life has to offer here.

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Navigating Pain in the Bedroom: Tips for Comfort and Pleasure

By

Olivia Salamone

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November 8, 2025

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Sex hurts for up to one in five women in the U.S. Whether the cause is physical, emotional, or both, pain during sex is more common than most people realize.

I am not a doctor. Be sure to discuss any of the recommendations with your healthcare provider before trying!

Sex shouldn’t hurt. Sure, you might feel a twinge of discomfort sometimes — new position, tight muscles, or just a busy day — but consistent, sharp, or distressing pain during sex that doesn’t ease up? That’s something worth paying attention to. And yet, many of us stay silent. We push through. We whisper to ourselves, “Maybe it’s just normal?”

But it’s not always “just normal,” and you do deserve pleasure, comfort, and confidence in your body.

What’s going on?

There is a medical name for persistent pain during sexual intercourse:  Dyspareunia. This is defined as pain in the genital area just before, during, or after sex that causes distress.

Simply: If your body says “ouch” instead of “yes please,” that’s your cue to pause, reflect, and adjust.

According to a review in American Family Physician, Dyspareunia affects approximately  10% to  20% of U.S. women.

Bottom line: You are not alone. And just because it’s common doesn’t mean you have to live with it without change.

up close of someone wearing white underwear — Image courtesy of Unsplash

Why does it happen? Let’s unpack it.

Painful sex can have many roots — physical, emotional, relational — and often a mix of several.

Understanding the “why” helps you ask better questions (of yourself, your body, your partner, your provider).

Some physical causes:

Insufficient lubrication or vaginal dryness (due to hormones, menopause, breastfeeding, medications).
Muscle tension in the pelvic floor — tight or overactive muscles that don’t relax easily.
Underlying gynecologic conditions like Endometriosis, infections, scarring, or nerve sensitivity.
Changes post‑childbirth or with aging that alter tissue elasticity, pelvic support, and muscle tone.
For post‑menopausal women: one report noted that between 13%–84% experience vaginal pain during sex, yet many remain undiagnosed.

Some emotional/relational/psychological overlaps:

Anticipation or fear of pain can lead the body to tense up — tightening muscles and setting up a cycle.
Connection between partner communication, trust, arousal, and comfort. If you’re anxious, distracted, or feeling pressured, your body might respond with pain rather than pleasure.
Shame, silence, stigma. Sometimes the pain becomes emotional, not just physical. One qualitative study found that women were more than three times less likely to speak up about painful sex.

couple on top of each other in bed — Image courtesy of Unsplash

What can you do?

Here’s your toolkit. Think of it as “pleasure‑first, with a twist,” rather than “endure the pain.”

1. Communication is key

Talk with your partner. This isn’t just about “what feels good” (though yes, that too) but about what doesn’t.

Use “I” statements: “I feel pain when we try ___ position/penetration/angle/speed.”
Experiment: slower entry, more time for arousal, alternate forms of intimacy.
Use props: pillows, wedges, cushions to adjust angles and reduce pressure.
Consent remains sexy: check in, pause when needed, trust your body.

2. Lubrication + positioning

A lot of pain is from friction, pressure, or an awkward angle.

Use a good quality water or silicone‑based lube. It can make a huge difference.
Consider positions that give you control: woman‑on‑top, side‑by‑side, spooning, or any variation where you can adjust depth/angle.
Take your time: foreplay, arousal, and warm‑up. This helps tissues relax, flow increases, and muscles ease.

3. Pelvic floor awareness & muscle work

Your pelvic floor isn’t just Kegels. It’s about relaxation, control, and coordination.

For many women with dyspareunia, a hyper‑tonic (too tense) pelvic floor is part of the puzzle. Physical therapy for pelvic floor dysfunction has shown real benefit.
Work with a qualified pelvic floor physical therapist if you can. Techniques may include manual therapy, biofeedback, muscle training, and relaxation practice.
Self‑practice: gentle pelvic floor stretches, diaphragmatic breathing, hip openers, mindful muscle relaxation. The goal isn’t just “stronger” but less tense and more responsive.

woman laying topless in bed — Image courtesy of Unsplash

4. Mind‑body & alternative pleasure pathways

Try body‑scan, deep breathing, and mindfulness before and during sex. A relaxed nervous system = more comfort.
Pretend you’re warming up for pleasure — not just “we’re gonna have sex now”. Explore touch, sensation, erotica, lingerie, whatever lights you up.
If penetration hurts: shift to other pleasurable acts — oral, hands, toys, mutual massage. Reinforce the idea: intimacy includes but isn’t defined by pain‑free penetration.
Use sex toy/ lubricant combinations that you control: you decide speed, depth, angle, and can stop when you want. That agency matters.

5. When to seek help

Pain that:

persists for weeks/ months
becomes sharper, burning, or occurs every time
is linked to heavy bleeding, infection, lumps, or scarring
interferes seriously with your desire, relationship, or mental health
… then it’s time for professional help.

Your provider should ask about this. A holistic care path often includes a gynecologist + pelvic floor therapist + sex therapist/counselor. For example, treating dyspareunia without addressing muscle tension and emotional stress can leave you stuck.

Putting it all together

Here’s a mini “better pleasure action week” you can try:

Day 1: Talk with your partner about the last time sex hurt. Share what you remember physically and emotionally.
Day 2: Buy a good lube. My favorite is #LubeLife. Set aside 10 minutes of gentle sensual time.
Day 3: Try a gentle pelvic floor awareness exercise: lie down, knees bent, place one hand on your belly, one on your pelvic bowl. Breathe deeply, on exhale, imagine the pelvic floor “softening”.
Day 4: Choose one new position or prop to try and keep it playful. Pause if you feel any pain.
Day 5: Try a non‑penetrative intimate act (massage, oral, toy) emphasizing pleasure over “completion”.
Day 6: Reflect: Did anything feel better? Was there less tension, less worry?
Day 7: If pain persists or you’re worried, schedule a consult with a pelvic health specialist.

Your body is talking to you. Pain is a signal, not a judgment. It doesn’t mean you’re broken or doing something wrong. It means that your system wants you to listen. You deserve pleasure that feels good. You deserve intimacy that doesn’t leave you disabled, anxious, or checking your watch for “how much longer.”

Welcome to our new column at The Girly Pop Register that is strictly for the girls. Indulge in all life has to offer here.

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How Redecorating Your Space Can Help You Redefine Yourself

By

Olivia Salamone

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November 6, 2025

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You’re not just redoing your room, you’re rebranding your identity. Redecorating can be the ultimate self-audit, helping you figure out what still fits, what doesn’t, and who you’re becoming next.

At some point, most of us look around our space and think, “Wait — when did I start living in an environment that doesn’t even feel like me?” Maybe the beige walls that once screamed “minimalist chic” now whisper “identity crisis.” Or maybe your college-era decor still lingers, and every morning you wake up to a gallery wall of who you used to be.

Redecorating isn’t just about new throw pillows or finally committing to that statement lamp; it’s about rediscovering who you are right now. Your environment is one of the most visual ways to express identity, and tweaking it can actually help you find your personal style from the inside out.

Here are a few tips on how to make your space and your vibe finally match:

living room with a brown couch, plants, and art on the wall — Image courtesy of Unsplash

1. Start with what’s not working

Before you buy anything new, look around. What feels off? Maybe your room feels too curated, too cluttered, or just plain not you. Pay attention to the things you avoid using or looking at — they’re clues. If you never lit that aesthetic candle or can’t stand that trendy wall art anymore, that’s your sign; it doesn’t fit the person you’ve become.

Think of it as a breakup with your old decor. Thank it, release it, and move on.

In my own room, I realized I had way too much going on. Specifically, different colored pillows with way too many patterns. I decided to get a proper bed sheet set so my pillows would match the rest of the bedding.

2. Notice what you’re drawn to without judging it

Forget the mood board rules. What colors make you feel good? What textures or objects make you feel calm, inspired, or energized? Scroll through Pinterest or walk through a thrift shop and notice what you pause on.

I have recently been into stripes. Thick stripes, thin stripes, multiple stripes. And colors — lots of color. I always thought stripes were the most boring and basic pattern (one I made fun of my sister about for years), but now, I am addicted.

While deciding what to do with my newfound obsession, I used Pinterest to sort all my visions and get a better idea of what I wanted my room to look like. I now have a semi-coherent-looking bedroom that brings me so much joy.

3. Mix inspiration with intuition

Yes, take inspo from interiors you love and influencers you obsess over, but don’t let aesthetics bully you into neutrality if you’re secretly a maximalist at heart. The best spaces mix influence with instinct – a little vintage, a little chaos, and a whole lot of personality.

Try the “room test.” After you finish decorating, ask yourself, “Would I actually hang out here if no one ever saw it on social media?” If the answer is yes, you’re getting close.

bedroom with string lights and candles — Image courtesy of Unsplash

4. Let your space evolve as you do

Your taste isn’t static; it changes with every phase of your life. Maybe your early 20s were all about bright colors and chaos, but now you crave calm and natural light.

Let that shift happen. Redecorating is about allowing your environment to grow with you, not locking it into one vibe forever.

That’s what I had to come to terms with — the change. I was unwilling to get rid of my bedding for so long. I mean, a long time… like college. So it was time to embrace the change.

5. Think of it as self-expression, not perfection

Your space doesn’t have to be “aesthetic.” It just has to feel like you. A mix of old, new, functional and fun. Because when your environment aligns with your energy, it will become a space you never want to leave.

Redecorating might start as a design project, but somewhere between rearranging the furniture and choosing new art, it turns into something deeper — crash course in self-awareness. It’s proof that your personal style isn’t something you find, it’s something you create, one cozy corner at a time.

Welcome to our new column at The Girly Pop Register that is strictly for the girls. Indulge in all life has to offer here.

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The Art of Leaving Early: Why Knowing When to Go Is the Ultimate Power Move

By

Olivia Salamone

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November 4, 2025

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Leave while your lip gloss is still shiny and the music’s still good. The power move isn’t staying all night — it’s knowing exactly when to go.

There’s something magnetic about the girl who leaves when she wants to. Not with drama or an excuse about her early morning Pilates class — just a quiet, confident exit while the music’s still good and her lip gloss hasn’t smudged. She doesn’t wait until the lights come on or the vibe shifts. She knows when the night has given her all it’s going to give. And then she’s gone.

For years, women were taught that staying late meant you were fun. That the last one standing was the one who lived the most. Gosh, I have felt that way for as long as I can remember.

But let’s be honest—half the time, staying longer just means standing in a sticky bar, holding a half-flat drink, pretending you’re not already dreaming of your bed. And the worst part? You’re miserable and you don’t want to be there.

So here’s the truth:

Learning to leave early — whether it’s a party, a relationship, or even a job — isn’t about missing out. It’s about knowing when enough is enough.

woman holding an espresso martini — Image courtesy of Unsplash

Leaving early doesn’t mean you’re boring. It means you’ve stopped performing. It’s realizing that your energy is valuable and you don’t owe it to anyone.

This has taken me so long to come to terms with. I always just sucked it up and switched my drink to something with soda so I could get that caffeine boost.

Maybe that means ducking out before the after-party, or it means not replying to the “you up?” text from someone who only remembers you after midnight. It could also mean quitting the job that’s been draining you dry because you finally believe that you deserve more.

The art of leaving early is really the art of trusting your own timing. It’s choosing to listen to that little voice that says, “This was fun, but now I’m done.” It’s not about being impulsive; it’s about being intentional, because sometimes the most self-assured thing you can do is leave before you’re asked to stay.

I have recently been leaving the bars early, even though all my friends are still having the time of their lives. I think I am finally learning how to protect my peace and create boundaries for myself. Thanks, Linda (my therapist).

So, the next time you feel that familiar itch to go, don’t fight it. Finish your drink, say your goodbyes, and leave the party while you still feel like yourself. Let the night end with you, not on you. There’s power in the early exit, and honestly, nothing looks better than knowing exactly when to go.

Welcome to our new column at The Girly Pop Register that is strictly for the girls. Indulge in all life has to offer here.

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Our Top 6 Picks For Affordable, Travel-Friendly Sex Toys

By

Olivia Salamone

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November 4, 2025

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In honor of National Sex Toy Day, we rounded up six travel-sized toys that are discreet, affordable, and powerful enough to make even your holiday layovers feel a little less painful.

‘Tis the season for delayed flights, overbooked hotels, and pretending your suitcase isn’t 10 pounds over the limit. But in honor of National Sex Toy Day, we’re giving you permission to pack one more thing: your pleasure.

From bullet vibes that look like lipsticks to suction toys that could pass as skincare tools, these six travel-friendly picks prove you can keep things spicy even miles from home. And they won’t break the bank — they’re all under $100.

1. Unbound Zip Bullet Vibrator

Price: $22
Why we love it: This little bullet is lipstick-sized and fits in your makeup bag with zero drama. It’s multi-speed, has a charging cord and travel pouch, and packs a swift punch for its size. Ideal for sneaking in some “me time” between dinners or flights.

2. Bellesa Boutique Finger Pro Air

Price: $69 – cheeky
Why we love it: This one’s for the girlies who like a hands-on approach. Designed to fit comfortably on your finger, it delivers gentle air-pulse suction that feels luxurious but never over-the-top.

It’s easy to clean, totally travel-sized, and perfect for when you need something discreet but effective.

Bonus: it charges via USB, so it can share a cord with your phone.

3. Lovehoney G-Slim G-Spot Vibrator

Price: $24.99
Why we love it: Proof that good G-spot toys don’t need a big price tag. This sleek vibe is slim, curved just right, and offers steady power for internal stimulation.

It’s lightweight, beginner-friendly, and fits in the tiniest toiletry bag.

4. Unbound Puff

unbound puff in green and pink — Image courtesy of Unbound

Price: $48
Why we love it: Don’t let its cute, cloud-like shape fool you — this toy means business. The Puff uses air pressure technology for a soft but powerful suction experience that feels like a kiss (if kisses came in multiple intensities). It’s waterproof, USB-rechargeable, and travel-pouch approved.

This is by far my favorite vibrator. Another plus? It’s as quiet as a mouse.

5. Womanizer Starlet 3

Price: $79
Why we love it: Small, chic, and scandalously effective, this toy delivers Womanizer’s signature air pressure stimulation in a perfectly packable size.

With four intensity levels, a quiet motor, and a sleek design, it’s ideal for hotel nights, staycations, or even a midweek reset at home.

6. Maude Vibe

Price: $52
Why we love it: Minimalist, chic, and subtle enough that it could pass for a wellness gadget.

It’s body-safe, waterproof, and TSA-approved (just take the batteries out!). If you love a toy that looks as good as it feels, this one’s your perfect travel partner.

Welcome to our new column at The Girly Pop Register that is strictly for the girls. Indulge in all life has to offer here.

Interested in reading a bit about my love life? Click here!

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Pieces of Advice for Your 20s — From People Actually in Their 20s

By

Olivia Salamone

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November 3, 2025

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Your 20s are a fever dream of bad dates, random jobs, and emotional breakthroughs you didn’t see coming — but that’s kind of the point.

It’s your 20s. You’re learning how to do life — how to cook more than pasta, how to love without losing yourself, how to say no without guilt. Everyone tells you these are “the best years of your life,” but they forget to mention that they’re also the most confusing, chaotic, and wildly transformative.

One minute you’re crying over your taxes, the next you’re booking a spontaneous trip with money you don’t really have.

So, here’s what we — the ones still very much in the trenches — have figured out so far. Not the polished, hindsight version of adulthood. The real-time advice from people still paying for therapy and $8 cold brew in the same week.

Advice from 20-somethings

1. “Learned this one the hard way — if you date from a place of loneliness, you will always end up with the wrong person. You have to be ok in your own company. “I don’t mean the cliche, ‘you have to love yourself first.’ But if you’re content in your own company, you’ll stop dating losers just to avoid being alone.” – Sophia, 25

2. “Romantize life. Make the mundane magical. Find joy in the simplest things.” – Olivia, 25

3. “Allow yourself to be happy. It is not selfish to follow your own happiness.” – Bella, 21

4. “Don’t compare your timeline to anyone else! Go at your own pace and trust yourself.” – Lauren, 25

5. “If you can, travel as much as possible, see as much as you can, and experience new things!” – Jenna, 25

6. “Comparison is the thief of joy.” – Kelly, 25

7. “Don’t settle if you are unhappy. There is always a better job and a better man out there.” – Cara, 25

8. “Don’t be afraid to communicate with partaking in sexual activity.” – Sierra, 25

two women with their hands and arms outstretched looking at a lake — Image courtesy of Unsplash

9. “Your time is money. Invest in good quality people!” – Melissa, 25

10. “Vitamins are worth taking.” – Madeline, 24

11. “Protect your peace, try a fuck it mindset. Don’t spend time on friendships and relationships that drain you and don’t fill your bucket. The person you’re dating should be adding to your life, not dulling your sparkle. Take more time off from work, and do what makes you happy.

“Being depressed is okay, and struggling with your mental health gets more manageable as you grow up. Everything in your 20s is how it’s supposed to be, struggling, worrying about the future and money, but it’ll all make sense hopefully by your 30s. It’s okay not to be getting married and having kids in your 20s. You are right on time for your own life; you’re not late to life. Everyone is on their own timeline.” – Ally, 25

12. “Do the work to understand yourself and your emotions. 30s+ always wish they did it sooner.” – Erin, 25

13. “Reflect on the most recent years of your life and pay close attention to what brought you the most happiness. What colors move you? Do you like music, the sounds of nature? Do you enjoy showering more in the morning or at night? What people leave you feeling restored and fulfilled? Take an active effort to understand yourself and fill your cup with those billion tiny things that bring you joy. The little things matter, and they add up! If you develop a simple habit of treating yourself in this way, you’ll cultivate an environment that is so fruitful and a sense of self that is so strong.

“Piggybacking on that, prioritizing a sense of self. I genuinely live my life by the Serenity Prayer: ‘Accept the things you cannot change. Have courage to change the things you can. Have the wisdom to know the difference

“Never place your emotional well-being in an external factor. example, the actions of a partner, a parent, or a friend. You cannot control them, and you cannot expect them to act any sort of way. You can possess a strong sense of morals, you can have expectations and boundaries with people, but always remember that you are not in control of that person.

“Of course, lead by example. understand the power you wield over your own life and optimize it. do unto others as you’d have them do unto you vibes. Only emotionally investing in things you can control pushes you to have a strong and positive relationship with yourself, continue showing up for yourself, understanding shortcomings, offering yourself forgiveness and acceptance, and just a general sense of loving yourself. You come to understand that you’re the only entity that you can rely on.

a woman with her arms out holding flowers — Image courtesy of Unsplash

“If you’re able to, prove to yourself that you can exist independently. ultimately, this demonstrates that you’re not forming relationships to fill a hole or void in your life. You’re full and complete on your own, and everything around you is just icing on the beautiful lifecake.

“Making an active, genuine effort to know yourself and love yourself will give you an incredible resource and built-in support system to get you through life’s toughest challenges, and bring you the most happiness.” – Kalote, 27

14. “It’s never too late, you’re not behind in life, you will figure it out, just be patient because adulting is a learning process.” – Tiffany, 27

15. “Most people in their 20s don’t have it all figured out or really any of it. You’re still learning and growing, and that’s an amazing thing. Be happy you don’t have it all figured out-life would be pretty boring!

“Unless you’re inheriting generational wealth, most people in their 20s do not have an immense amount of savings or any savings at all, and that’s normal. And don’t be afraid to take a risk, whether that’s in a new job, moving to a new city, going to an event alone, etc. A risk can turn into something that becomes a more permanent part of your life (or it doesn’t, and that’s okay too!)” – Nikki, 25

16. “We were only kids a minute ago? Don’t race through being in your 20s or be so hard on yourself because you think you should be doing all these different things or accomplishing great heights. We’re all just trying to figure out the transition, and we all do it at our own pace, our own ways.” – Sean, 25

This advice is coming straight from the source — women figuring it out right alongside you. Hopefully, some of it made you feel a little more seen or at least a little less alone.

Welcome to our new column at The Girly Pop Register that is strictly for the girls. Indulge in all life has to offer here.

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The Girly Pop Register

The science of starting your day with an orgasm

But this isn’t another “optimize your life” hack

It’s self-care, but make it spicy

Of course, not every morning is a sexy morning

1. Brain development: the behind-the-scenes upgrade

2. Hormones & your body doing its own thing

3. Why the “weird” part feels so loud

4. What you can do

What’s going on?

Why does it happen? Let’s unpack it.

What can you do?

1. Communication is key

2. Lubrication + positioning

3. Pelvic floor awareness & muscle work

4. Mind‑body & alternative pleasure pathways

5. When to seek help

Putting it all together

1. Start with what’s not working

2. Notice what you’re drawn to without judging it

3. Mix inspiration with intuition

4. Let your space evolve as you do

5. Think of it as self-expression, not perfection

So here’s the truth:

1. Unbound Zip Bullet Vibrator

2. Bellesa Boutique Finger Pro Air

3. Lovehoney G-Slim G-Spot Vibrator

4. Unbound Puff

5. Womanizer Starlet 3

6. Maude Vibe

Advice from 20-somethings

The Girly Pop Register

**4. What you can do**

2. Lubrication + positioning