How to Grow a Goatee

Think you can pull off a goatee? Want to try out a new look? Growing and grooming a goatee takes a little attention, a lot of practice, and a good dose of confidence. Goatees convey uniqueness and confidence and can be a funky way to express yourself.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Choosing a Style

1. Make sure you have the face for a goatee. A goatee is a good beard to grow if you have a weak chin, or a rounder face. It can help cover up and fill out that part of your face. A goatee is a versatile beard that can look good on many faces, though you may find another beard type that will look better on you.^[1]
   
2. Consider the contrast between your skin tone and hair color. The starker the contrast, the more dramatic your goatee will appear. If the colors are close together, you may want to consider another kind of facial hair style if distinctive and noticeable is what you are going for.^[2]
   
3. Look at different styles for your goatee. Traditionally, a goatee refers only to the hair that grows off your chin, which hangs down like that of a goat. There are other forms of beards that use hair on the chin, and are sometimes referred to as “goatees.” You’ll want to choose the one that best enhances your face, and that you are best prepared to take care of.
   
   • Look through magazines and websites for pictures of goatee variations that you might want to experiment with.
4. Grow a Van Dyke. This is a goatee with a disconnected mustache. When wearing a Van Dyke, the rest of your cheeks should be completely shaved and smooth. If you grow a Van Dyke, you’ll want to take special care that it stays trim, as it looks better when the beard is more defined.
   
5. Grow a circle beard. This is a goatee connected to a mustache that grows in a circle around your mouth. This is a fuller beard, but not so much that it covers your whole face. A circle beard is a great choice for a man with a softer jaw line, or if you have a squarish face or jaw. Because it has a lot of hair, a circle beard can also help to cover up skin breakouts.
   
6. Grow a Musketeer. This look combines a goatee with a Hungarian mustache. This is a more labor intensive beard, but definitely a distinctive one. With a Musketeer, you’ll want to keep your goatee trim, but let it grow a little longer down your chin. Because of the thickness, you’ll want to use some wax or conditioner to help the hair keep its shape.
   

[Edit]Growing Your Goatee

1. Let your facial hair grow out. Once you know what you want to try, stop shaving and let the facial hair below your chin, around your mouth, and below your nose grow out. It should be nice and bushy before you start shaving and shaping. After about one week, you should have some good growth.
   
   • Itchy skin for a few days is a normal part of growing a beard. Don’t let yourself feel self-conscious about scratching your face often. If you find it’s particularly irritating, you can use moisturizing lotion to sooth the skin a bit.
   • You can grow out the rest of your facial hair as well, though you don’t have to. Having the extra hair can give you a little more flexibility when determining the size of your goatee.
2. Shave the outline. Start from your neck by making small cuts with a trimmer blade. Work your way around your chin and up your cheeks until you have the basic outline of what you want your goatee to look like.
   
   • You’ll probably want the outline to start about an inch above your Adam’s apple on your throat. This may feel a bit long, but you will always be able to shorten it slightly if you don’t like the way it looks. If you shave too close too soon, you will have to wait to grow that back.
3. Shape your goatee. Now that you have an outline, you can shape the edges of your goatee to get it to the size and shape you want. Make sure you have a clean, sharp razor to get the shaping accurate. If you use a manual razor, a new razor will give a cleaner shave. If you use an electric shaver, you will find the trimming tool handier to use.
   
   • Before trimming, run a comb through your beard to straighten out curled hair. This will make your hair easier to trim, and will give you a better sense of how long your goatee will be.
   • Make sharp, clean corners at the jawline.
   • Get the right width. A typical goatee will be about the same width as your mouth. You can help to define this width by smiling. Use the creases from your dimples to better judge where the edges of your goatee should be.
   • No matter what kind of goatee you're shaping, make sure that both sides match symmetrically. Every few minutes, stop what you are doing and check in the mirror to make sure things are even on every side.

[Edit]Goatee Maintenance

1. Trim your goatee regularly. Even if you want your goatee to grow out, it should still look clean around the edges. Shave every day, and don’t let the edges of your goatee grow out in every direction.
   
   • Using an electric trimmer ensures that your goatee is symmetrical and neat. Also, the built-in length selector enables you to select the length of the hair rather than guessing with a pair of scissors. Most trimmers give you several different length choices.
   • A nose hair trimmer can be a useful tool for giving the edges a finer shape.
   • Trimming the part of the goatee where your chin meets your neck can be quite awkward, so position your mirror below head height, and pull your chin into your neck to get a better idea of how it looks.
   • If you are including a moustache with your goatee, trim the top to make sure those hairs don’t connect with your nose hairs. That is not a look you want to have.
2. Keep the rest of your face shaved. A goatee generally looks best when the rest of your face is clean-shaven, so make sure you get the rest of your face clear. Clear shaving gel is better because it allows you to see the edge of your goatee more clearly when shaving.
   
   • When you are shaving near your goatee, make sure to move your razor away from the goatee. You don’t want to accidentally move too close to the goatee and shave part of it off.
3. Wash your beard. Wash your goatee on a regular basis with shampoo and conditioner. You want to help prevent your beard from becoming oily or unruly. This allows oils to get trapped in it, causing acne and other skin problems. Use shampoo instead of bar soap, as it will help keep your skin and beard moisturized.^[3]
   
   • Remember to dry off after washing. Gently pat and wipe your beard dry with a clean towel.^[4]
   • Consider using beard oil as well. These oils can be better than moisturizer because they are specially designed for cleaning beards and protect the skin underneath. Rubbing in a few drops of oil daily while your beard is still a bit damp should be enough to keep your beard clean and prevent acne forming under the hair.^[5]
   • Be mindful of the fact that when you eat, food can and will get lodged in your beard. Make sure you brush and wash any food out of your goatee. To help prevent this, take smaller bites when you eat, and wipe off your face after each bite.^[6]
4. Stay healthy to keep your hair strong. A goatee, like any other beard, will grow nice and thick by taking care of your body. Eating well, sleeping regularly, and exercise are all good ways to help your beard hair grow in nicely.^[7]
   
   • Eat well. A balanced, healthy diet is good for skin and hair, though you can supplement that. Foods high in protein, iron, zinc, and vitamins A, C, and E are all good for growing and protecting hair. You can also include a B vitamin called biotin, which is found in whole grains, liver, egg yolk, soy flour, and yeast.^[8][9]
   • Regular exercise is another good way to boost testosterone, which helps in hair growth. Weight lifting and high intensity interval training are both good exercise programs for increasing your body’s testosterone levels.^[10]
   • Get regular sleep. A good 7-8 hours, depending on your needs, will keep you fresh and healthy, and help aid in regular hair growth.

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Tips

• Make sure you keep visiting a barber or stylist, and let them help keep your goatee nice and trim. They may also have other good ideas for styling, or helping you get the perfect look for your face.
• While “goatee” generally refers to hair grown on the chin, there are a variety of ways you can adjust the look, including the width and length of your beard, adding a moustache, and connecting a moustache with your beard. Go ahead and experiment with various looks and styles to find something that best suits your face.

[Edit]Warnings

• Not every guy can grow facial hair, including a goatee. If you’ve been trying to grow for several months, and your hair is patchy or scraggly, just shave it off. Waiting just a little longer won’t make it any better. Contrary to popular beliefs, shaving your hair will not make it grow thicker, faster, or darker.

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Grow Sideburns
• Shave
• Shave With an Electric Shaver
• Shave Your Head
• Create a Good Hair Care Routine (for Men)
• Grow a Van Dyke Beard
• Grow a Mustache

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ http://www.gq.com/story/4-goatee-questions
2. ↑ http://www.gq.com/story/4-goatee-questions
3. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/men/features/beard-care-tips
4. ↑ http://www.beards.org/grooming.php
5. ↑ http://www.askmen.com/grooming/appearance/best-beard-oils-reviewed.html
6. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/men/features/beard-care-tips?page=2
7. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/men/features/beard-care-tips?page=2
8. ↑ http://www.bbcgoodfood.com/howto/guide/what-eat-healthy-hair
9. ↑ http://www.realmenrealstyle.com/how-grow-beard/
10. ↑ http://www.artofmanliness.com/2013/01/18/how-to-increase-testosterone-naturally/

How to Signs He Wants You to Be His Girlfriend Soon

If you like a guy you've been casually dating for a while, how can you tell when he's ready to take things to the next level? Don't worry! Men sometimes have trouble expressing their emotions outright, but that doesn't mean they're not interested. Keep reading to figure out what he's thinking and learn all the signs that he wants you to be his girlfriend.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]He deleted his dating profile.

1. Deleting his profile means he doesn't want a new match—he wants you! If the two of you met through an online dating service, check back after a few weeks of dating to see if his profile is still active. A deactivated profile is a surefire sign that he only has eyes for you and is focused on progressing your relationship further—likely sooner rather than later.^[1]
   
   • If his profile is still active, don't lose hope. It doesn't mean he's uninterested; he might have just forgotten or not bothered to go back onto the site. Look for the other signs that he wants you to be his girlfriend.

[Edit]He drops hints that he's not dating anyone else.

1. He may want to take things to the next level if he's already exclusive. If he wants you to be his girlfriend, he might come right out and say that he's not seeing anyone but you. While it doesn't officially make you a couple, statements like that imply that he's devoted to strengthening his relationship with you alone.^[2]
   
   • He might also drop hints by stating how great things are going between you and how much fun he's having with you—or, he might ask you if you're having a good time with him and if you can see yourself in a relationship with him.
   • If you're just as interested in him, offer reassurance by confirming that you're also not seeing anyone. This can help banish any self-doubt or nerves stopping him from asking you to be his girlfriend.
   • Some equate exclusivity with being in a relationship, but others prefer to have “the talk” (a discussion about being together). When a guy is exclusive without being asked, he’s ready to have "the talk," or planning to start it himself!

[Edit]He asks you lots of personal questions.

1. He'll try to learn everything about you if he wants you as his girlfriend. It's a good sign if he starts asking you more profound, thoughtful questions because it means he sees you as relationship material and wants to get to know you better.^[3] If he were only interested in casual dating or hookups, he wouldn't bother to get to know you beyond surface-level information.
   
   • Open-ended questions like, "What are your biggest goals in life?" and "What is your greatest passion?" are excellent signs because he clearly wants to know more about you in a meaningful way.
   • He'll also ask many follow-up questions based on conversations, which shows that he's listening to every word you say!
   • Be sure to ask him questions about himself, too. Be attentive and actively listen to show him that you're just as interested as he is.^[4]

[Edit]He compliments you often.

1. Genuine, specific compliments mean a guy thinks you're pretty special! When he wants you to be his girlfriend, he'll notice all the things that make you special—and he'll be sure to mention them. He'll compliment your clothes, your style, or your intelligence because he's into you.^[5] A guy who praises you, whether in person or over text, is clearly smitten with you beyond casual dating.^[6]
   
   • Look out for more precise compliments than "You look nice today." Instead, it could be an observation about how your shirt matches your eyes or the way your smile lights up the room. Detail is the key to sincere praise!
   • Compliments about your appearance are lovely, but make sure some go deeper. If he compliments your smarts, sense of humor, talents, or tastes, he's definitely interested.
   • Take compliments gracefully and appreciatively. To make him feel valued, give him compliments too.

[Edit]He initiates communication.

1. A guy who texts and calls wants to ensure you stick around. Think about your recent communication with him, and which of you has done more reaching out and establishing contact. Ideally, it'll be a healthy split! When he wants you to be his girlfriend, he'll waste no time texting or calling you whenever he misses you—which will probably be most days.^[7]
   
   • If the two of you talk daily, that's a great sign! Just remember that this doesn't mean he's reaching out every time; you can send the first "good morning" text sometimes, too.
   • It's normal to text more since texting is super easy and convenient, but phone calls are an especially great sign. Phone calls are more intimate than text messages, which shows that he's putting extra effort into communication.

[Edit]He responds to all of your texts.

1. Fast responses to your texts mean he’s eager to hear from you. When it's your turn to send the first text, note how fast his replies are. If he's usually quite responsive, your guy is interested in you as a girlfriend. Men who aren't invested in a relationship take their time without worrying about what the other person will think.^[8]
   
   • Remember that life happens, and nobody is perfect. For example, if he has an intense job and you don't hear from him during work hours, that's completely normal. So long as he texts you as soon as he can, it's still a good sign.

[Edit]He stays close to you when you're out.

1. He'll stick by your side to show you that he's romantically invested. Physical closeness is his way of showing you that he cares, he's proud to be seen with you in public, and he wants to be closer to you. Guys tend to express their feelings through physical displays of affection, so you might also notice light touches here and there on the arm, elbow, and back.^[9]
   
   • He could also start holding your hand while you're out in public—another way for him to express care and affection through physical gestures.

[Edit]He invites you to hang out with his friends.

1. He's making you a bigger part of his life by introducing you to friends. Mixing friends and a potential partner is a big deal; it means he wants to see how well you fit with the other piece of his social life and vice versa. He likely wouldn't introduce you to his friends if he didn't want you all hanging out together for the long haul, implying that he plans to ask you to be his girlfriend soon.^[10]
   
   • He might even ask you to meet his family. Although everyone has a different pace, it's a good sign if he wants to introduce you to his relatives.

[Edit]He spends most of his free time with you.

1. His schedule will start to fit yours when he wants to be a couple. A guy who wants to be your boyfriend will do whatever he can to see you often, even if that means rearranging his schedule so he can accommodate yours. He'll start considering you before he plans, asking you in advance if you'll be able to do things with him, and spending most of his free time with you.^[11]
   
   • It usually takes at least 2 months of casual dating for couples to make things official, but every pair is different! It’s more about the amount of time you spend together—so if he’s making every effort to see you, “the talk” isn't far behind.
   • This will be the case even if challenges come up or you live further apart. Whether it's a busy week at work or you live a few towns apart, he'll be eager to spend time with you regardless.
   • Do you spend a lot of weekends together? Weekends are a cherished time for people to rest and relax, so it's significant if he spends his weekends with you!

[Edit]He gives you small gifts and makes sweet gestures.

1. A guy who does things just to please you is interested in a relationship. He might bring you simple but meaningful surprise gifts, stock his home with your favorite treats, or pick up a coffee for you just the way you like it. Every gesture he makes will prove just how well he knows you and has been listening to you when you talk about yourself—and attentiveness is a sure sign of interest.^[12]
   
   • Show lots of appreciation and thank him when he does something sweet for you. Try to return the favor and set up a healthy give and take in the relationship so both of you feel valued and happy.

[Edit]He prioritizes your needs.

1. He'll rush to your aid no matter what if he's romantically invested. Think about your conversations: has he asked you to call or text him anytime if you need him? That's a big sign that he wants to be in a committed relationship. Furthermore, if he follows through and is ready to help you at the drop of a hat, it means he's already thinking of you as a girlfriend.^[13]
   
   • For example, a guy who prioritizes your needs will go the extra mile to pick you up from work if your car breaks down, or show up at your job with lunch if you’re too busy to get it yourself.

[Edit]He apologizes first after a conflict.

1. A willingness to apologize means he doesn't want to lose you. No matter who is in the wrong (even if it's you), a guy who wants you to be his girlfriend will go out of his way to smooth things between you. He'll readily apologize and acknowledge his faults because he doesn't want to let the argument come between you.
   
   • Likewise, accept his apology gracefully. If you might also be responsible for the disagreement, do your best to apologize to him too. Don't let any negative feelings fester, or they may affect the relationship later.^[14]

[Edit]He wants more than just sex from the relationship.

1. As he opens up to you, he'll start to see a partner—not a hookup. Some relationships begin (and fizzle out) because they're based purely on attraction and sex. If he's really boyfriend material and wants you to be a girlfriend, he'll be more interested in forming a more profound connection based on emotional vulnerability than physical closeness. He'll openly express his feelings to you.^[15]
   
   • Does your guy discuss his hopes, fears, passions, concerns, and dreams with you? Does he tell you that he misses you when you're apart? He's expressing emotional vulnerability and wants to be closer to you.

[Edit]He's always supportive of you.

1. If he sees you as a girlfriend, the things that matter to you matter to him. When you get a promotion at work or make a breakthrough in your latest project, he's the first to congratulate you and think of some fun way to celebrate. If you need advice or a pep talk, he's always there to hype you up and remind you how special you are. A guy who really likes you will act like your biggest fan!^[16]
   
   • Support him in return to solidify your bond and make him see what a great pair you’ll make. Cheer him on, let him vent when he needs to, and reassure him when he’s unsure of himself.

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Tips

• There’s no correct way to enter a relationship with a guy. Sometimes it’s a natural process and you don’t even have to discuss it! Others want to have a talk about making the relationship official. While this usually happens after a couple of months (around 10 dates) it’s ultimately subjective. Don’t rush things: have fun, look for the above signs, and talk to him when it feels right.^[17]
• A guy who likes you will pay attention to you. He'll make an effort to talk to you, be playful, and joke around with you.^[18]

[Edit]Expert Interview

Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about relationship cues, check out our in-depth with [v161182_b01].

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/sex-matters/201810/are-we-exclusive-yet
2. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/dating-and-mating/201605/4-ways-you-can-turn-crush-relationship
3. ↑ [v161182_b02]. 27 November 2019.
4. ↑ [v161265_b01]. 7 February 2020.
5. ↑ [v161147_b01]. 18 November 2019.
6. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/ink-blots-cartoons/201706/how-compliment-beautiful-people-better
7. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29624443/
8. ↑ https://www.southuniversity.edu/news-and-blogs/2016/08/the-psychology-behind-love-and-romance-70700
9. ↑ [v161182_b02]. 27 November 2019.
10. ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/relationships-communication/tips-for-finding-lasting-love.htm
11. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/liking-the-child-you-love/201607/seven-signs-hes-really-in-love-you
12. ↑ [v161265_b01]. 7 February 2020.
13. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/fulfillment-any-age/201403/11-ways-tell-if-your-lover-loves-you
14. ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/relationships-communication/relationship-help.htm
15. ↑ https://www.scienceofpeople.com/someone-likes-you/
16. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-art-of-a-heartfelt-apology-2021041322366
17. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/sex-matters/201810/are-we-exclusive-yet
18. ↑ [v161147_b01]. 18 November 2019.

How to Choose Your Best Clothing Colors

Finding your skin's undertones and neutrals to craft the perfect wardrobe

If you struggle to make your favorite colors look good on you, you might be missing out on a key bit of styling know-how. We’re talking about color analysis! Color analysis matches clothing colors to your skin tone to make sure your wardrobe and your body work together to show off your best hues. We’ll show you how to find your dominant undertones, determine your go-to neutrals, and then mix and match your outfits to your personal color profile so you can strut your technicolor stuff.

This article is based on an interview with our board certified professional organizer, Kathi Burns, founder of Organized and Energized!.

[Edit]Things You Should Know

• Examine the veins in your wrist to find your undertones. Cool undertones wear cool colors, warm wears warm colors, and neutral can wear anything.
• Find your best neutral colors by holding neutral clothes up to your face in a mirror. This is subjective; look for neutrals that complement your skin and hair color.
• Put together outfits that use your best neutrals as a base, and colors that match your undertones on top.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Analyzing Your Skin Tone

1. Determine your skin's undertone with the vein or white shirt test. Some colors may look better on you depending on the undertone of your skin.^[1] Your undertone is the dominant hue of your skin—warm, cool, or neutral. Warm undertones tend to look best in warm colors, cool in cool colors, and neutral in any color. Use one of the following tests to determine your skin’s undertone:
   
   • Vein test: Look at the veins on your wrist or palm. If your veins appear green, you have warm undertones. Blue or purple means you have cool undertones. And if you have a mix or you can’t tell, you have neutral undertones.
   • White shirt test: Pull out a white shirt (or any white fabric) and hold it up to your face in a mirror lit by natural light. If your face appears rosy, you have cool undertones. If it appears more yellow, you’re warm. Can’t decide? Neutral.^[2]
   • For context, warm colors are reds, oranges, and yellows. Cool colors would be your blues, greens, and purples.
2. Use your skin brightness to find more complementary shades. In addition to your undertones, your primary skin shade can help you identify your best colors.^[3] Generally, colors that create a contrast in brightness with your skin are more flattering. For example, bright colors tend to wash out light skin, while dark colors might not pop on dark skin.^[4]
   
   • If your skin is dark, saturated oranges and yellows almost always look great, even if your undertone is cool.
   • Greens and blues tend to pop on people with fair skin.^[5]
   • Bold jewel tones like emerald, ruby, and amethyst flatter paler skin regardless of undertone.
3. Use your hair color to help you discover more flattering colors. Your hair color, like your skin undertones, can also inform your wardrobe colors. People with light blonde hair typically have cool skin undertones, and so look great in cool-toned clothing. Yellow blondes, on the other hand, mesh better with warmer hues.^[6]
   
   • Black, dark brown, or true red hair often indicates cool undertones.
   • Brassy reds or lighter browns often indicate warm undertones.
   • If you dye your hair, pick dye colors that match your undertones to better complement your skin.
4. Sort your closet into a “color season” that matches your undertone. Many stylists narrow the color profiles down into “seasons” to help their clients stick to a preselected palette.^[7] Typically, “fall” and “spring” colors go well with warm undertones, while “winter” and “summer” colors go well with cool undertones. Now that you know your undertones, pick out clothing that coincides with a matching season of your choice. Some colors in each season are:
   
   • Spring: Warm, pastel colors like soft yellows, pinks, or oranges.
   • Summer: Sharper cool colors like sea blue, deep purples, and strong reds.
   • Fall: Warm earth tones like burnt oranges, browns, and darker greens.
   • Winter: Dark or bright colors with cool undertones, like royal blue, emerald green, or hot pink.

[Edit]Picking Your Neutrals

1. Grab 6 objects, each a different neutral color. Neutral colors are those with low or no color saturation, like whites, blacks, grays, and browns.^[8] In this example, the 6 neutrals are light and dark gray, light and dark brown, navy, and black. Grays and browns come in warm and cool variations, so pick ones that match your color profile.
   
   • Make sure the object is almost entirely monochromatic to more easily analyze its color.
2. Hold the object up to your face in a mirror and examine the undertones. Find an area with plenty of natural light to do this, and decide which color makes you look your best.^[9] Even neutral colors have undertones that can match your skin. Examine the objects’ undertones. For example, is it a warm gray, or a cooler, bluer gray? Does the object’s undertones match your skin's undertones?
   
   • This is largely subjective and open to your taste, so don’t stress too much about it!
   • Your best neutral is often close to your natural hair color.
3. Choose 1 or 2 neutrals to build your wardrobe around. Pick a couple objects that match your undertones the most closely, and get other neutral clothes that closely match those colors. These colors will make up the workhorses of your wardrobe, and will constitute the majority of your pants, dresses, jackets and shoes.^[10]
   
   • Of course, you’ll incorporate plenty of other colors, but your neutrals make for a reliable, flexible base to build on.
   • Avoid mixing neutrals in an outfit to keep your look cohesive.

[Edit]Coordinating Your Wardrobe

1. Assemble some go-to pieces that complement your undertone. Pick either a color season or a few of your favorite shades of a single color that matches your undertones, and make this your go-to palette.^[11] It’s best to stick to 2-3 colors to stay cohesive; a good outfit is usually made up of 1 neutral and 1 main color with an optional small amount of accent color. More colors tend to make an outfit look busy.
   
   • Of course, don’t toss your favorite clothes just because they don’t match your color—if it looks good on you, it looks good on you!
2. Wear tops and scarves that bring out the color in your eyes. If you want to make your eyes "pop," make sure the clothes on your torso complement them. Pick either a color that matches your eyes closely or one that’s on the opposite side of the color wheel. For our brown-eyed fashionistas, go for blues, lavenders, or reds.^[12]
   
   • Similarly, match your lipstick to your undertones to help unify the upper portion of your body.
3. Pick a few accessories in a complementary accent color. Wearing complementary colors—or colors that sit on polar ends of the color wheel—is a quick way to make any outfit stand out.^[13] Have a look at a color wheel, and choose 2 colors that sit on opposite sides to build a complementary color scheme. Then, choose 1 color to make up the dominant color of your outfit, and accessorize with the other color.
   
   • For example, an orange tie or pocket square can make you stand out in an otherwise conservative navy suit. Likewise, an aqua belt on a salmon dress can be an unusual but stylish choice.
   • Use this technique sparingly, as too many competing colors can begin to clash.
4. Stick to one type of metal for accents and jewelry. Even though they make up a small part of your outfit, shiny metals tend to attract the eye and stand out against your outfit. Using 2 different colors of metal can clash or look busy, so stick to 1 if you’re unsure. Silver and platinum are cool-toned metals, while gold and bronze are warm-toned.^[14]
   
5. Wear colors that express your personality. People tend to associate certain colors with certain vibes or attitudes.^[15] For example, earth tones and light, unsaturated warm colors can make you look friendly and approachable. Bright reds are attention grabbers. Dark, monochromatic colors can make you look stern or powerful. Wear muted or pale colors if you want to be noticed less. Bright, bold colors, especially purple, may make you seem more creative.
   
   • Your favorite or go-to colors might not match your undertones, and that’s okay! Comfort and confidence is often more important than precise color-matching.
   • In addition, you may find that your favorite color has hues that do match your undertone. For example, reds come in both cool and warm tones, and both make a bold outfit.
6. Try on an outfit before wearing it out of the house. Getting your wardrobe just right is a trial-and-error process. Crafting the perfect closet takes time and a willingness to experiment.^[16] Practice putting outfits together at home and analyzing your work in the mirror. Or, send a pic of the outfit to a friend for some handy input.
   
   • Always remember that if you like how you feel in an outfit, then it’s a good outfit! Taste is subjective, but good vibes are priceless.

[Edit]How Does Color Matching Work For Clothes?

[Edit]Reader Videos

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Tips

• Take note of what colors you're wearing when people compliment you. This can give you a good clue to which colors look best on you.
• Figuring out the right color profile for you can be difficult. If you're not sure if a color is quite right for you, the best way to figure it out is to try it on.
• If your outfit is monochromatic, try not to get the exact same color of hijab. Instead, choose a complementary color to make it pop.
• Avoid clothing that is too close to your skin color to avoid looking washed-out.

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Choose Colors That Flatter Skin Tone

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ [v161237_b01]. 31 December 2019.
2. ↑ https://asianamericancenter.northeastern.edu/blog/finding-my-skin-undertone/
3. ↑ [v161237_b01]. 31 December 2019.
4. ↑ https://www.fashionbeans.com/article/right-colours-wear-skin-tone/
5. ↑ https://www.thecoolist.com/pick-suit-colors/
6. ↑ https://www.thelist.com/21212/choose-perfect-hair-color-skin-tone/
7. ↑ [v161237_b01]. 31 December 2019.
8. ↑ https://www.color-meanings.com/neutral-colors/
9. ↑ https://asianamericancenter.northeastern.edu/blog/finding-my-skin-undertone/
10. ↑ [v161237_b01]. 31 December 2019.
11. ↑ [v161237_b01]. 31 December 2019.
12. ↑ https://www.glamour.com/story/do-you-ever-wear-clothes-in-ce
13. ↑ https://www.collegefashion.net/fashion-tips/a-foolproof-guide-to-matching-colors-in-your-outfits/
14. ↑ https://fashionweekonline.com/the-golden-rules-to-matching-jewelry-to-your-skin-tone
15. ↑ https://www.color-meanings.com/clothing-colors-what-your-clothes-say-about-your-personality/
16. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JCcgkWD0kVI

How to Build Character

What can you do to become a better person?

So, you want to become a better person. You want to build “character.” But what does that mean exactly? Character comes from the Greek word kharakter, meaning “to engrave.” When someone has character, they’re trustworthy, honest, humble, dependable, and courageous—they have every positive personality trait in the book! Building character doesn’t happen overnight; it’s something you gain from experience. We’ll fill you in on the best ways you can start building your character in this article. With our help and a bit of dedication, you can become the person you want to be.

[Edit]Easy Ways to Build Your Character

1. Take risks and try new things that challenge you.
2. Develop strong relationships with people you admire.
3. Empathize with other people and show kindness.
4. Choose to do the right thing instead of what's easier.
5. Set goals that you want to strive for so you continue growing.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Take risks and accept failure.

1. Character is built when you face the possibility of failure. Failure is inevitable, but you don’t have to fear it! Use risks and failures as life lessons—you haven’t lost something; you’ve gained knowledge and experience. Take a risk every once and while. If you fail, accept it; after all, the best thing you can do is try.
   
   • Put yourself out there. Approach that cute barista and ask for their number, or volunteer to take on a challenging task at work. Every challenge offers a new opportunity to learn.
   • Look for reasons to act. Instead of making excuses for why you shouldn’t do something, think of why you want to do something. For instance, apply to your dream school because you imagine yourself going there instead of skipping the application because you’re probably not qualified.

[Edit]Surround yourself with people you admire.

1. Believe it or not, the character of the people around you rubs off on you. Think about who you respect—a father, mother, grandparent, teacher, or friend. What makes them admirable? Why do you respect them? Is there a quality in them you wish you had? Pay attention to what makes this person commendable and successful—what can you do to become the same?^[1]
   
   • For example, say you admire how your best friend can always speak their mind. Maybe you can gain the same skill by vocalizing your opinions or speaking more in class.
   • Hang out with people older than you. Older generations may have a different perspective than you, but you never know what stories or lessons you’ll learn.
   • Make friends with someone different from you. Everyone has a story, and you can learn a lot from people who have a different story from your own. So, broaden your social circle and talk to people you may not normally talk to.

[Edit]Step outside of your comfort zone.

1. Putting yourself in uncomfortable situations helps build character. Take a chance and gradually start doing things you normally wouldn’t do. Volunteer at a food bank, attend a concert for a band you don’t know, or take the scenic route home. The more you push yourself, the more you’ll grow.^[2]
   
   • When finding ways to get out of your comfort zone, think about things you liked when you were younger. You might go back to an old hobby, for instance, or try something you used to think would never be possible.^[3]

[Edit]Take on an uncomfortable job at least once.

1. Having a difficult job you don’t enjoy can help you learn patience and empathy. Not every job is fun, and that’s okay! Why? Because it builds character. So, sign up to clean up after the school dance or apply for a job flipping burgers. Having a difficult job not only helps you gain life experience, but it also gives you an opportunity to learn about other people's struggles.
   
   • For instance, you’ll never truly understand the hardships of someone working in a fast-food restaurant until you do it yourself.

[Edit]Empathize with other people and their situations.

1. Learning to empathize will make you a better person. When you empathize with someone, you understand and identify with their feelings. Not only does this help you build trust with others, but it also helps you be approachable, which are both excellent personality traits to have.^[4]
   
   • Let’s say a friend skips out on plans last minute. Instead of being upset with them, you can show empathy by reassuring them that you can reschedule and asking how they’re doing physically and mentally.
   • To put it in perspective, Abraham Lincoln handled setbacks and practiced patience by showing kindness and empathy, even with his enemies.

[Edit]Be supportive.

1. Someone with strong character is always there to lend a helping hand. Say a friend or family member is going through a rough patch. Rather than ignoring them, offer your assistance. The best thing you can do is show them you’re always there for them, even if they don’t accept the help right away.
   
   • See if you can pick up their groceries, drive them to work, or mow their lawn. Consider what needs to get done, and ask if you can help.
   • A “helping hand” doesn’t have to be something physical. Tell your loved one they can call you at any time to vent—you’ll be ready with an open ear!

[Edit]Stay humble and kind.

1. Kindness and humility are important traits to develop. There’s no denying that the world isn’t always the kindest place; however, even when life challenges you, try your best to be nice. Let peace win over anger, and avoid making judgments. Think of it this way: if you put good vibes out into the world, positive energy will find you in return.^[5]
   
   • For instance, let’s say your little sister steals your shirt. Even though you're angry and annoyed, take a deep breath and approach the situation calmly. Maybe you ask why she needs the shirt or offer a fair trade.
   • Along with being kind to others, it’s also just as important to be kind to yourself. Speak to yourself positively and reframe negative thoughts. For example, “I look awful today” can be changed to, “I had fun with my friends last night and didn’t get much sleep. It’s okay that I look a little tired.”^[6]

[Edit]Mange your emotions.

1. Learn to control how you react when you're upset. Getting angry or upset is inevitable, but building character is all about controlling those emotions. Learn to manage your emotions through one or more of these destressing activities:^[7]
   
   • Journal
   • Yoga
   • Run or walk
   • Play video games
   • Listen to music

[Edit]Chat with all types of people.

1. A person of character can communicate openly and honestly with everyone. So, sit down and have a conversation with a stranger. Who knows? You may just learn something new and make a new friend. After all, the best leaders create environments where people feel safe to express their opinions.^[8]
   
   • Even the simplest conversation can make someone’s day and improve your self-esteem. Talk to the barista when you grab your morning coffee, or ask the cashier at the grocery store how their day is going.
   • Reserve venting about your emotions for trusted loved ones. Opening up about deeply personal issues with a stranger could be dangerous because you’ve just met them.

[Edit]Lose graciously.

1. Being a good person isn’t dependent on winning. Believe it or not, the best leaders and people are open to losing. Learn to accept your losses by shrugging off your failures, admitting defeat, and trying again.^[9]
   
   • Think of a loss as a new beginning rather than a missed opportunity. For instance, getting third place in a race is still a huge success, and now you know what you need to improve on to get that gold medal next time.
   • Start small by practicing how you react when you lose a board game or get a bad test score. Keep your chin up, focus on what you can do better, and avoid lashing out.
   • While it's important to be a good loser, it’s also important to be a good winner. Skip the bragging and be humble to demonstrate a strong character.

[Edit]Practice self-discipline.

1. Having high character is about doing the right thing. Some choices are easy, while others are hard. When 2 choices are pinned together, choose the right choice over the easier option to build your character. Think about your morals, listen to your gut, and discipline yourself. Try asking yourself, “What choice would be the most responsible and aligned with my goals?”
   
   • Remember, the more you push yourself, the stronger you’ll be. Even if the right choice is more difficult, you can accomplish it if you put your mind to it.
   • For example, say you get to choose between 2 projects at school or work. One of the assignments will take you a matter of hours—you’ve done plenty like it before. The other project, however, has multiple steps and new instructions. If you choose the more difficult project, you’ll enrich your skills and become stronger.

[Edit]Challenge yourself with difficult goals.

1. A person of character challenges themselves and others to be better. If you want to have a strong character, start by leading by example. Whether you’re at school or work, volunteer for additional projects and commit to doing them correctly. Staying accountable and challenging yourself mentally and/or physically can help you become a stronger and more responsible person.^[10]
   
   • In school, challenge yourself to do the best work possible, even if that doesn’t mean getting a 100%.
   • At work, ask for extra responsibilities, stay late to finish a project, or go above and beyond with your notes. All in all, challenge yourself to make your work satisfactory.
   • At home, challenge yourself to complete a hobby in your free time. Write a book, learn to play guitar, or take on the 75 Soft Challenge.

[Edit]Be a doer, not a talker.

1. An easy way to grow your character is to be accountable. Take responsibility for your actions, and keep your promises. If you say you’re going to do something, do it! Make a to-do list every morning of what needs to get done, then aim to check everything off your list before you go to bed.
   
   • Set up a morning routine (or evening routine if you’re a night owl) to start the day on a positive note. A productive start can be enough to motivate you for the rest of the day.

[Edit]Let setbacks motivate you.

1. Failure is just a speed bump on the way to getting what you want. An easy way to build your character and drive is to continue pushing on despite setbacks. Let failure motivate you rather than discourage you. Take every obstacle as a new opportunity to grow.^[11]
   
   • For instance, say you didn’t win your tennis match. Instead of getting angry at yourself or your opponent, learn from your mistakes. Practice and train more so you can beat them next time.
   • Try thinking about failure mathematically. Each failure is just a wrong answer, eliminating one choice and bringing you closer to the right answer.

[Edit]Focus on guiding your own fate and decisions.

1. Strong character is about making your own decisions. In psychology, your perception of who or what governs your life is called Locus of Control. The term is divided into 2 categories: external locus and internal locus. Those with an external locus believe their behavior is controlled by fate or luck, whereas those with an internal locus believe they influence their own decisions and choices. Taking control of your life is an important part of developing character, so focus on making your own choices rather than letting other forces decide your fate.^[12]
   
   • For instance, rather than waiting for your crush to ask you out, walk up to them and make the first move.
   • Now, this isn’t to say fate and luck don’t have some say in how things work out. But relying heavily on external forces can hinder your ability to take responsibility for your actions, minimizing your character.

[Edit]Dream big and define your goals.

1. One of the best ways to build character is to chase your dreams. Take a moment to ask yourself, “What do I want in life?” If you want to be a musician, move to the big city, form a band, and start gigging. No dream is too big, as the journey to it can help you stay focused and become a better version of yourself.^[13]
   
   • Write down your short-term and long-term goals. What can you do to achieve them?
   • Your short-term goals may be writing a novel, getting an A on an essay, or signing up for a class.
   • Your long-term goals could be becoming a published author, graduating college, or learning a new language.

[Edit]Identify your purpose.

1. Understand what you want to become the person you want to be. Analyze your life goals—what do they all have in common? What’s the end goal? Think about how and what you’re interested in giving back to the world. Then, use that as a starting point for what to do next.^[14]
   
   • Say you want to graduate and become a nurse. Perhaps your life purpose is to care for others and save lives.
   • Maybe you want to be a journalist. Your purpose could be to advocate for others or showcase a different life perspective.

[Edit]Learn to recognize and embrace your defining moments.

1. Analyzing the past can help you grow. Think about a time when you were challenged physically or mentally—when was the last time you felt tested? This moment is a defining moment in your life. Recognizing these moments can help you understand your choices, grow from your mistakes, and become stronger.^[15]
   
   • For instance, let’s say you missed the winning shot of a basketball game. Recall how you reacted in that moment. Is there something you’d change about it? If so, can you make those changes to your character now?
   • Try to imagine all the possible outcomes of a given situation. If you're thinking about moving across the country to pursue a career in acting, what might happen? What will happen if you stay? Can you live with either outcome?

[Edit]Commit to self-improvement.

1. Building character isn’t something you learn overnight; it’s a life-long lesson. If you want to be someone others look to for inspiration, make an active effort to improve yourself day in and day out. Pick one thing you’d like to work on each day and be patient with yourself—self-improvement takes time.^[16]
   
   • For example, maybe you want to be a good listener. Focus on mindfully listening one day and asking insightful questions the next. Then, you can combine what you learned from both days to improve your listening skills.

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Reader Videos

[Edit]Tips

• Keep in mind that there is no easy path to the things you want. If you want to learn a skill or master something, it takes effort and dedication (which builds character).
• Use a journal or calendar to track your progress and see how far you’ve come.

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Build Self Confidence
• Regain Confidence
• Build Self‐Control
• Develop Self‐Esteem
• Brag Without Being Arrogant

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ [v161309_b02]. 22 April 2020.
2. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/in-flux/201512/5-benefits-stepping-outside-your-comfort-zone
3. ↑ [v161309_b02]. 22 April 2020.
4. ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/tracybrower/2021/09/19/empathy-is-the-most-important-leadership-skill-according-to-research/?sh=62a9b89b3dc5
5. ↑ https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/kindness/kindness-matters-guide
6. ↑ https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2023/04/kindness-happiness-negative-feedback/673862/
7. ↑ https://www.mhanational.org/helpful-vs-harmful-ways-manage-emotions
8. ↑ https://www.harvardbusiness.org/good-leadership-it-all-starts-with-trust/
9. ↑ https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/kidspost/losing-gracefully-is-one-of-the-most-important-lessons-from-playing-sports/2020/11/18/9faf1280-2386-11eb-8672-c281c7a2c96e_story.html
10. ↑ https://www.hult.edu/blog/using-challenges-as-an-opportunity-to-build-character/
11. ↑ https://hbr.org/2019/07/use-failure-as-an-opportunity-to-reflect-on-your-strengths
12. ↑ https://www.usmcu.edu/Portals/218/What%20is%20Locus%20of%20Control%20by%20James%20Neill.pdf
13. ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/jeffboss/2017/01/19/5-reasons-why-goal-setting-will-improve-your-focus/?sh=674e2517534a
14. ↑ [v161309_b02]. 22 April 2020.
15. ↑ https://www.viacharacter.org/topics/articles/what-are-your-defining-moments
16. ↑ https://blogs.illinois.edu/view/8605/1833882347