Saturday, 21 February 2009

Dating Preparation: Give Yourself a Makeover

Getting a makeover is about giving the outer and the inner self an overhaul.

1. LIKE YOURSELF
This is vitally important. You can't even begin your makeover until you like yourself.

2. BE POSITIVE
Have a positive attitude. Make sure you say positive things even if you aren't thinking them. Pay particular attention to self-talk - Take note of what you say to yourself and change it. If you are consistently saying 'I am not good enough' then you won't be good enough.

3. LEARN HOW TO HANDLE REJECTION PROPERLY
Rejection is a part of dating and it happens to everyone. The key is not to take rejection personally. Remember, it often has nothing to do with you.

4. BE CONFIDENT AND SMILE
Act confident and smile even when you don't feel like it. If you put on a confident front it can help you feel confident on the inside and when you feel confident on the inside it is obvious on the outside.

5. WORK ON YOUR COMMUNICATION SKILLS
Tips:

Speak clearly, loudly and confidently

Look the person you are speaking to in the eye

Say your point succinctly

Be enthusiastic

Practise active listening (see below)

6. PRACTISE ACTIVE LISTENING
In a conversation one of the most important things people need is to be heard. Be interested in people, listen to what they are saying and ask questions about it.

7. PRACTISE GOOD POSTURE
Stand up straight with your shoulders back. Never slump.

8. CONSIDER GROOMING AND CLEANLINESS
When it comes to a makeover clean and tidy works. Pay attention to the details like clean fingernails and getting rid of unwanted body hair.

9. GO FOR A NEW LOOK
Consider a change of style, including a new hairstyle/colour and new outfits.

IMPORTANT: Do your research. Ask at least five friends for their opinions. Look at what other people are wearing out on the street. Notice what you are impressed with or attracted to.

Find something modern that suits you and you feel comfortable in.

Colours are important - some colours suit you more than others. Find out which colours work best.

Don't forget shoes!

10. WORK ON YOUR SELF
Think about the way you live your life, and deal with your issues. If you have a fear of commitment, work on getting rid of that fear. If you get angry and defensive easily, work out why then change it.