None of us wanted to be measured solely by how we look, nor should any person do that. After all, the measure of attractiveness goes beyond the surface. Nonetheless, we cannot deny the fact that physical appearance DOES play a huge part in how people find you attractive.
Several studies have already cemented the fact that physically attractive people tend to enjoy the finer things in life. In a 2004 research, it was found that tall workers tend to earn an extra $789 per year than those who are of average height.
In another study published in the Journal of Labor Research, employees who regularly exercise earn 9 percent more than those workers who do not work out at all. Similarly, women employees who wear makeup tend to earn 30 percent more than their non-makeup wearing counterparts.
Regardless of these statistics and research though, we can agree, based on our personal experiences, how we perceive those people we have met who put little to no effort into their personal appearance.
It could be dirty nails, bad breath, or greasy hair. Think how these details we notice subtly change our opinion of such a person.
Four Main Reasons Why Appearance Matters
1. Sexual Attraction
There are many factors to consider when you find someone sexually attractive. But, there is no discounting the fact that sexual interest begins with finding that person physically attractive. Initial attraction to someone is always based on that person’s physical appearance.
Regardless of whatever stage in the relationship, physical appearance does matter. Though of course changes in our bodies can never be avoided, it does not mean that we let go of taking care of ourselves physically and just leave grooming on the wayside.
2. Indicator of Self-Respect
How you look and how you present yourself says so much about how you value yourself as an individual. Although physical appearance is not the only gauge of self-respect, it is the first thing that people notice. Too bad though that many of us do not realize this.
3. Health Reasons
The importance of regular exercise can never be over-emphasized. And if we are just being honest with ourselves, most of us work out not only for health reasons, but we also want to look attractive and fit. Luckily though these two things work together.
Having concern about your appearance and addressing it through engaging in an active lifestyle has a positive impact on your health. Needless to say, people who work out are overall healthier than those who rather sit lazily on the couch all day.
So, regardless if you exercise for vanity reasons, for health concerns, or both, being physically active is still a wise choice.
4. Boost Self-Esteem
It cannot be denied that when you feel you look good, you tend to feel better about yourself. When we project the most attractive version of ourselves, it makes us feel a bit more invincible — that we can do almost everything.
This does not mean though that we have to make such drastic changes to our physical appearance. However, it urges us to take care of ourselves by practicing proper hygiene, grooming, and staying fit and active.
One way for us to increase our self-esteem is by taking care of ourselves in a good way.
How to Invest in Your Physical Appearance
Just to be clear, physical appearance is among those little things that are quite hard to quantify. Nonetheless, here are some of the things you can do to improve the value of your physical appearance.
Proper Hygiene
No matter how busy you are, it is always a must to set a time each day for basic personal hygiene. Some people however struggle even with this basic thing because of work, household responsibilities, or some other things which they are just super involved in.
If you are one of these individuals, try as best as you can to insert some time each day for basic personal hygiene. It is usually best to set the first thing in the morning. It can be a struggle at first, but in time this routine will become second nature to you, making everything easy-breezy.
Get Dental Work
Another thing that people notice the first time they meet you is your smile and your breath. Aside from showering every day, you should also brush your teeth at least twice a day. Not to mention, be sure to visit your dentist for a regular dental checkup to ensure your teeth are still in good shape.
Some people do need orthodontic work to correct a crooked smile. Though it can be costly, investing in such a procedure is worth the price as it makes your teeth look perfectly straight. This further helps in improving your appearance, thus boosting your self-confidence.
Mind Your Hair and Beard
Your hair is your crowning glory. And this holds true as to how you style your hair makes or breaks the image you are trying to portray. If you have a regular hairstylist, ask for his/her opinion on what cut fits you better.
The same thing goes with men who grow facial hair. Some men look good with a full-grown beard while others look good with a goatee.
Dress Well
It is not bad to try to look unique, but it is also worth it if we try to follow the standard dress code especially with our workplace environment. Try to dress up a bit better than the others by wearing crisp and fresh clothes as compared to the rest.
Proper Etiquette
Finally, no matter how good-looking you are, observing proper etiquette is always golden. Strive to be approachable and practice kindness. You have no idea how kindness can make you look attractive in the eyes of anyone.
All these considerations help create a more positive impression of you. Though it can be uncomfortable to think that people around us every day judge us on how we look, that is a fact of life. So, we might as well strive to look our best.
