Losing confidence in how you look is a terrible feeling, but it’s something most people experience at some point.
After all, it’s pretty much impossible to wake up every day for the rest of your life, loving what you see looking back at you in the mirror (though you really should). The good news is, there are ways to start feeling attractive again. Whether you’ve recently gained or lost a bit of weight, started showing signs of ageing you’re uncomfortable with, or just aren’t a fan of your appearance for some reason all of a sudden, here are some ways to start loving the way you look again. Putting these practices into place takes time, but persevere with it — it’ll be worth the effort.
1. Focus on what you love about yourself.
When confidence is low, it’s easy to fixate on what you don’t like about your appearance. Instead, take a moment to think about the features or qualities you do like. Maybe it’s your smile, your eyes, or the way you carry yourself. Shifting your focus to these positive aspects can help you reconnect with the parts of yourself that make you feel good. That doesn’t mean ignoring things you want to improve, but it’s important to build a foundation of self-appreciation. When you focus on your strengths, you’re more likely to feel motivated to take steps that boost your confidence further.
2. Start moving your body in ways you enjoy.
Physical activity has a way of making you feel more connected to your body. It doesn’t have to be about hitting the gym; it could be dancing, yoga, hiking, or even a brisk walk. The goal is to choose something you enjoy so it feels like a treat rather than a chore. Moving your body releases endorphins, which can instantly lift your mood and help you feel better about yourself. Over time, staying active can also improve your posture, energy levels, and overall confidence in how you look and feel.
3. Refresh your wardrobe.
Clothes have a powerful impact on how we feel about ourselves. If your wardrobe feels outdated or no longer reflects who you are, it might be time for a refresh. Look for pieces that fit well and make you feel comfortable and stylish. You don’t need a huge budget to update your look. Even small changes, like adding a new accessory or swapping out an old pair of jeans, can make a big difference. When you feel good in what you’re wearing, it can boost your confidence almost instantly.
4. Take care of your skin and hair.
Source: Unsplash Sometimes, a little self-care can go a long way in helping you feel more attractive. Whether it’s starting a simple skincare routine, trying a new hairstyle, or even just giving yourself a bit of pampering, these small acts of care can remind you that you’re worth the effort. Taking care of your skin and hair doesn’t have to be about following the latest beauty trends. It’s more about finding what makes you feel polished and confident. When you feel fresh and cared for, it often shows in the way you carry yourself.
5. Try something new with your look.
Sometimes, shaking things up can help you feel like a new person. Maybe it’s a bold lipstick, a haircut you’ve always wanted to try, or a change in your usual style. Experimenting with your appearance can be a fun way to break out of a rut. Even small changes can have a big impact on how you see yourself. Taking a chance on something different shows that you’re willing to invest in yourself, which can boost your confidence and help you see your attractiveness in a new light.
6. Surround yourself with uplifting people.
The people you spend time with can significantly influence how you feel about yourself. If you’re around people who constantly criticise or bring you down, it’s no wonder your confidence has taken a hit. Spend time with friends and loved ones who uplift and encourage you. Being surrounded by positivity can remind you of your worth and beauty, especially when you’re struggling to see it yourself. Genuine compliments and kind words from other people can help rebuild your confidence and remind you of how the world sees you.
7. Stop comparing yourself to anyone and everyone else.
It’s easy to fall into the comparison trap, especially with social media showing everyone’s highlight reels. But constantly comparing yourself to other people can ruin your confidence and make you feel inadequate. Remember, most people don’t share their struggles or insecurities online. Focus on your own journey instead. Everyone has their own unique beauty and strengths. Shifting your mindset away from comparisons can help you appreciate what makes you special rather than wishing you looked like someone else.
8. Show yourself some kindness and compassion.
When you’ve lost confidence, it’s common to be your own harshest critic. But beating yourself up won’t make you feel better. Instead, try speaking to yourself the way you’d talk to a friend: kindly and with understanding. Practising self-compassion doesn’t mean ignoring areas you want to improve. It means giving yourself grace while working on them. Being kind to yourself can make it easier to rebuild your confidence and feel more attractive in your own skin.
9. Focus on how you feel, not just how you look.
Physical attractiveness isn’t just about appearances; it’s also about how you carry yourself and the energy you give off. When you feel good on the inside, it often shows on the outside. Pay attention to how you’re feeling emotionally and mentally. Take time to do things that make you happy and fulfilled. Whether it’s pursuing hobbies, spending time with loved ones, or just relaxing, feeling good inside can boost your confidence and make you radiate positivity and attractiveness.
10. Work on your posture.
Sometimes, feeling more attractive is as simple as standing up straighter. Good posture can make you look taller, more confident, and even slimmer. Plus, it’s an easy change you can start implementing right away. Practising better posture can also improve how you feel physically. When you’re standing tall and holding your head high, you’re likely to feel more powerful and self-assured, which naturally makes you appear more attractive to other people.
11. Embrace your uniqueness.
Trying to fit into society’s narrow standards of beauty can make anyone feel inadequate. Instead, embrace what makes you unique. Whether it’s freckles, curly hair, or a quirky sense of style, these are the things that make you stand out. Celebrating your individuality can help you feel more connected to yourself. When you stop chasing perfection and start appreciating your one-of-a-kind traits, you’re likely to feel much more confident in your own skin.
12. Make time for rest and relaxation.
Stress and exhaustion can take a toll on how you feel about yourself. When you’re run down, it’s hard to feel attractive or confident. Prioritising rest and relaxation can make a huge difference in both your physical appearance and your mindset. Whether it’s getting more sleep, taking a relaxing bath, or finding moments of quiet in your day, giving yourself time to recharge can help you feel refreshed and ready to face the world. A well-rested you is a more confident you.
13. Smile more often.
A smile can transform your entire appearance, making you look more approachable and confident. Even if you’re not feeling your best, smiling can trick your brain into releasing feel-good chemicals that improve your mood. Smiling isn’t just about how other people see you, it’s about how you see yourself. When you see yourself smiling, it can remind you that you’re capable of feeling happy and attractive, even on tougher days.
14. Celebrate small wins.
Source: Unsplash Rebuilding confidence doesn’t happen overnight, so it’s important to celebrate the small wins along the way. Maybe you tried a new outfit, went for a run, or felt good about your reflection for the first time in ages. These moments matter. Recognising progress, no matter how small, can motivate you to keep going. Confidence builds gradually, and each small step brings you closer to feeling like your attractive, confident self again.
