It’s true that money can’t buy happiness, but as the saying goes, I’d rather cry in a Lamborghini than on a bike. Likewise, looking good doesn’t automatically make you a strong confident person, but it certainly helps. Read on to discover five ways to bring back that fearless spirit you had as a child.
Say cheese.
The easiest way to get your smile back is to fake it. Pretending you’re happy tricks your brain into releasing dopamine and other positivity chemicals so you can literally fake it ‘til you make it. If you’re worried about your chompers, invest in some teeth whitening or get them straightened. If you’re happy with your smile how it is, then more power to you but if you need a little extra help, don’t let guilt or fear hold you back from what’s essentially a fairly cheap and relatively noninvasive way of boosting your self-esteem.
Flash some cash.
Remember how money can’t buy happiness? Don’t go out and throw money at unnecessary items that are way out of your budget, but if you’ve got the cash to spare and you’ve really been wanting that new outfit or to get your hair or nails done, then go for it. This comes back to that wonderful little neurochemical dopamine, which, surprise, is also released when you shop or pamper yourself. Just make sure to set a limit and stick to it or your pleasurable treat could turn into a spiral of debt.
Don’t diet.
We were once told a diet has its name because it makes you want to die and while that may be a bit of an exaggeration, dieting certainly isn’t fun or even healthy in most cases. Ensure that you’re getting your servings of fruit, vegetables and required vitamins then allow yourself freedom with the rest of what you eat during the day. Don’t binge because this will just make you feel worse both physically and mentally, but if you maintain balance in what nourishment you give your body, your confidence will receive an automatic boost since you’ll feel better emotionally when your body is well taken care of.
If you don’t love it, lose it.
Likewise, although you’ll probably groan at this one, you should work out. If you don’t already, start, and if you do, lift your game. Sure everyone tells you to exercise, and with good reason (our good old buddy dopamine) but what they don’t tell you when it comes to staying motivated, is that if you don’t enjoy the way you work out, you’re not going to stick to your plan. This is true no matter how many happy chemicals get released so make sure you find a way to exercise that you’re actually keen to do. If the gym isn’t really your thing, join a dance studio or make a point of taking the dog for a run each morning. Remember, it doesn’t matter how you do it, just as long as you do.
Confidence isn’t some magical unachievable ideal, but it is something you need to work towards having and keeping. If you look good and feel good physically, then you’re going to feel good mentally and emotionally. This boosts your confidence, which eventually leads to a self-perpetuating cycle of kicking goals and staying positive. Remember that no one feels 100% all the time. Do what’s best for you and the rest will fall into place.
