How to Look More Refreshed in 25 Seconds

In college when I had loads more energy to do things like tend to my appearance, I had lots of beauty tricks and rituals that I employed. One thing I did regularly was apply this eyecolor in "Soul" in three places: a swipe directly below the eyebrows on the browbone, a small dab on the inner corners of the eyes, and another small dab on the outer corners of the eyes. In a pinch I will use my finger, but for longer-lasting results I will use this brush.

Something about the color, which is a pale yellowish ivory, has an instant brightening effect. I like that it has a matte finish, too, which looks more natural to me than if it had shimmer like many other highlighters.

I rediscovered my jar (same one from college--a little goes a long way!) this week, and mid-day if I catch a look in a mirror, I have been surprised that I don't look as zombie-ish as I usually feel! And the best part? It truly only takes 25 seconds, which even I can usually spare!

The before:

And after:

(I wish I had smiled in both photos for a true comparison, but my children were being excessively quiet upstairs and I was rushing and distracted, per usual.)

Do you have any favorite pick-me-up beauty tips?