Managing self-esteem is a challenge for many of us. Trying to feel positive about yourself and your life sometimes takes hard work and effort. Luckily, there are many small hacks and techniques anyone can take advantage of to boost their mood. For instance, don’t overlook the impact of wardrobe changes on self-esteem.

Strategizing your outfit for better moods

For many of us, what we wear is an essential part of our identity. Looking good helps us feel balanced and in control. However, for many with low self-esteem, clothes are meaningless. It’s enough to pull on whatever is clean that day or has the least number of holes. Deciding to change this habit is challenging. Start by actively selecting what you will wear and noticing what does and doesn’t compliment your form. Get rid of whatever doesn’t so that there’s no chance of lapsing back into the “wear whatever” routine.

Using change to boost confidence

Change itself is often very encouraging. Routines, especially meaningless ones, quickly turn into soul-draining ruts. Actively making decisions about how to dress is just the beginning of varying the way. To begin with, take a look at your closet. If it’s full of dark clothes or is still mostly winter stuff, start switching over to a summer wardrobe. Shifting towards brighter colors and lighter materials will help you feel less alone in a sea of summery people.

Change as an excuse for a good deed

Another way to boost your mood and self-confidence is to do a good deed. One small and easy to accomplish act is to donate to a shelter or charity. Recycling centers of various sorts, as well as many parks, feature collection bins for clothes. While going through your old outfits, consider passing them along to people in need. By helping yourself, you can help others!

When wardrobe changes don’t help

Generally, the impact of wardrobe changes on self-esteem is immediate and positive, although everyone is different. What’s more, making changes to a routine look can make some people feel uncomfortable and anxious. It’s a decision someone must commit to on their own. Choosing the new look is also a personal event, so no friends or family members should pressure a person. Finally, never try and force a new face on a friend! Just because you feel more confident in your favorite look doesn’t mean they will.