Photo by Andrea Piacquadio
Self-expression is something everyone can benefit from, but it’s not always easy to just walk around fully self-expressed. Depending on how you want to express yourself, you might feel a little embarrassed or fearful of how other people will react.
People can be judgmental, even if you’re not doing anything too extreme. However, it’s always worth the risk because if you suppress the need to be creative and express yourself to the world, you can end up stuck in a cycle of depression.
There are many ways to put yourself out there and be expressive, and if you’re looking for some ideas, here are some great ways to start.
1. Get your ideal phone case
You probably use your phone all day long, and that’s the best reason to get a phone case you really love. Get a case with a design that represents your personality, your interests, or even one that makes a statement regarding something you care about.
Your options are truly limitless. For instance, there are so many cool Samsung Galaxy S24 cases already on the market, like these ones, that it won’t matter how new your device is – there’s a case for you out there somewhere.
If you can’t find what you’re looking for on an existing website, then create your own case. There are plenty of websites out there that provide print-on-demand services with no minimum order quantity required.
2. Wear fun makeup
When you’re used to doing your makeup the same way every day, it can feel really good to change things up a bit. You don’t have to go crazy with bright colors or anything dramatic, but try looking for new styles to test out and see how they feel. You might be pleasantly surprised at how fun it is to experiment and find a new makeup style.
3. Wear that outfit you’ve always wanted to sport
If there’s an outfit you’ve always wanted to rock, but you’ve been too scared to give it a try, now is the perfect time. Give yourself credit for having the confidence to branch out and do something new. There will always be people who will have an opinion on your taste in clothes, and their opinions shouldn’t count.
When you feel good wearing your preferred style of clothing, that’s all that matters. So, get that outfit you’ve been eyeballing for a while. The one you aren’t sure you have the courage to wear. Get it and wear it anyway because your opinion and how you feel is the only thing that matters.
4. Dare to be bold
Self-expression can be mild or bold – it all depends on the individual. If you’ve always been a bit quieter and reserved, you might be feeling the urge to be a little louder with your self-expression. If that’s the case, go for it! Don’t hold back. Wear that crazy makeup, wear the wild clothes, get that haircut and color that you know would make your grandparents gasp.
Being self-expressed has a positive impact on mood, cognition, function, and behavior. It allows us to develop a deeper capacity to relate to ourselves and others, and generate deep, meaningful relationships. Other people may not understand why you want to be so bold, but don’t let that hold you back.
5. Get a tattoo
Whether you have zero tattoos, a few pieces of ink, or you’re basically covered – a new tattoo can be an amazing way to express yourself. If this is something you’ve considered, you’ve probably thought about getting a design that symbolizes your journey in life, an accomplishment, or something that memorializes a person or pet who has passed on. Tattoos are full of meaning, and can even represent your spiritual beliefs or other traditions.
Of course, tattoos are permanent, and that’s the point. A tattoo is not something you should get on a whim, although many people do that without regrets. However, you’re better off thinking it through before you get inked. Get something you know you won’t lose interest in over time.
6. Share your thoughts with friends
Another form of self-expression that is often overlooked is the simplicity of sharing yourself with your friends. Just being open and authentic in conversation about your true thoughts and ideas is a form of self-expression that can make you feel amazing and strengthen your bond.
Aim to be fully self-expressed
Being self-expressed will free you up emotionally and contribute to overall positive feelings toward yourself and others. Don’t hold back. Start expressing yourself through your clothes, art, and any other way you can.