Working on my appearance

I've been reading a book called Elegance by Kathleen Tessaro.  It's one of the used books I got for a quarter at the local bookstore.  The plot blurb on the jacket sounded interesting, so I thought why not.  I do enjoy a good "transformation" story.  It's about a woman who comes across a used book about elegance in a local shop (there's a parallel for you) and how her life changes.

Not that this book is going to change my life, per say, but it has gotten me thinking about my appearance.  And I've realized that I don't necessarily take much care in my appearance.  Not that I'm a slob by any means, but I don't really put any effort into it either.  I used to, years ago, but that was then and this is now.  I don't really know why I stopped.  Maybe part of me has become more comfortable with life and knowing I can just throw on a pair of pants and a button down shirt and call it a day means I don't really have to think about it.

I'd like to change that.  I do not wish to become obsessed about it, but I do want to put more time into it because, like most of us, I feel better when I think that I look good.  And I'm talking about little things that I can do to be better groomed.  I don't really keep my beard shaped.  I keep it trimmed, but not shaped and I have all these razors and shaving gels just sitting on the shelf unused.  If these things are going to take up space on the shelf, I might as well put them to use.

Another thing, especially at work, is to tuck in my shirt.  This is not a dress code requirement at work, but I definitely carry myself differently when I do it.  I stand up straighter and my shoulders are broader and it just looks better.  I think I've done it once since starting in customer service there.  And I actually did get lots of compliments that day.  Hmmmmm  Maybe add a jacket and tie once in awhile.  I have jackets I never get to wear and ties that haven't been worn in decades.  Again, taking up useful space.  I should bring them out every now and then.

I also have jewelry that I never wear.  Watches, rings, pins, cufflinks, etc.  They just sit around not being appreciated.  Well, that's not true.  I appreciate them, I just don't wear them.  And lots of family things I could use to enhance my appearance.  I just let them collect dust LOL

That's not to say I have to do this every day, even though I can work towards that goal.  But, if I can get myself in the habit of better grooming, I know I will feel better.  We'll see how that goes.