There are times in our lives when we may just lack a little confidence in ourselves. Whether it’s because we’re getting over a break-up, having a slow time in our dating life, or just plain stuck in a rut there are times when we need a little kick to get us going. Improving our opinions of ourselves is always a good thing, as it gives you that extra confidence to go out there and take on the world. When we make a change for the better in our appearance, it really gives us a good feeling inside, and makes us proud to step out of the house and mingle with others. These are all good things, and with the constant stress of our daily lives we sometimes forget to care of ourselves. Here are 10 ways you can improve your appearance and bring about some much needed change.

1 - Work out

The single best way to look (and feel) better about yourself. Getting into a workout routine will not only make your appearance look a lot better, but also contribute to your overall health.

2 - Eat better

This really should be 1a. Eating better is something that a lot of us could do better at. Eating healthier foods can help you shed some pounds as well as give you energy you need to take on your day. While it might not seem like an obvious way to improve your appearance, it does it from the inside out and makes a big difference.

3 - Try a new hair cut

Cutting your hair a different way can be scary since you never really know how exactly it will turn out. But go to a place you trust and ask for some ideas if you don’t have any of your own. A lot of times we don’t think something will good on us until we see it for ourselves. A new hair cut can really drastically change your appearance and give you a totally different look.

4 - Get some new clothes

Ah yes, everybody loves going out and getting a new wardrobe! Sometimes we let our closet get stale just because we’re busy, and we find out that our fashion sense isn’t so much “in style” anymore. Make sure to expand your horizons a little when you shop for new clothes, just so you don’t fall into the trap of buying the same clothes you always buy. Think outside the box and you might be surprised at what you start to enjoy wearing.

5 - Get your teeth whitened

Having a yellowish smile can make anyone a little hesitant and self-conscience. The great thing is that there are many options, some that can be done at home, for whitening your teeth. Being happy with your smile is one of the biggest keys to being confident in your appearance. People like being around people that smile, and smiling makes you feel better as well. Kick your choppers in gear with a whitening treatment and gain confidence in those pearly whites.

6 - Get a tan

Having a nice brownish tint can make a big difference in your appearance. The key to make sure you don’t overdo it. The only thing worse than not having a tan is having too much of one. Usually tanning salons is fine as long as it’s in moderation.

7 - Get a manicure/pedicure

This is obviously more for the ladies than the guys…but you never know. Getting a manicure or pedicure is great for two reasons. One, you get to improve the appearance of your nails and extremities which can be a big boost in the warmer months. Two, it’s really relaxing and great way to pamper yourself!

8 - Go to a day spa

Speaking of pampering yourself, a day spa is a great way to relax and improve your look. A full day of mud masks, massages, and special treatments can really give your whole body a lift. Not only do all the treatments improve your look, but the relaxation that you gain throughout the day helps to lift your attitude.

9 - Finally get that tattoo

Now whether this improves your appearance or not is in the eye of the beholder. For a lot of people, their tattoo(s) symbolize something very special to them, and maybe even chapters in their lives. They’ve become such a big part of popular culture that tattoos are now something that we look at as an attractive (or unattractive) characteristic in people that we meet. If there’s something you’ve always wanted done and it just happens to be the right time, it could be the liberating boost that you’re looking for.

10 - Learn to be more outgoing

I know what you’re saying. What does this have to do with my appearance? Well, believe it or not the way that you act and carry yourself in public has a lot to do with how people see you. You could be an unbelievably pretty girl but so shy that no one really notices you. Being outgoing doesn’t necessarily mean that you crave attention everywhere you go, it just means that you’re not afraid to open yourself up to new people and just be yourself. The more you can come out of your shell and show the world the real you, the better you will look to those that have the same interests. Don’t hide yourself.

I’m sure there are a lot of other things you can do, like plastic surgery…but I don’t really advocate anyone doing something that drastic just because they’re in a bit of a lull in your life. Any decision to have work done should be well thought out and for the right reasons. But overall, you’d really be surprised at how much of a boost a slight change in appearance can give you. Even if we value the quality of our character inside more than our physical appearance outside, everybody wants to feel attractive. That’s why a compliment about how we look will make us blush or be uncomfortable most of the time. As much as we try to not make it our first priority, it definitely is one. Give yourself a treat and make a slight change. The great thing about trying something new is that you can always go back if you don’t like it.