09 Jun Sheldene’s Thoughts: Does Looking good give you an edge?

It’s a blunt question but multiple studies have addressed it and their conclusion is simple: Yes, good-looking people tend to get unfair beneficial treatment. The world rewards attractiveness, be it in business, school or social interactions.

The advantages of attractiveness are a cross-culture phenomenon. No matter where in the world you’re from, there are some features that are universally considered to be conventionally attractive – and those conventions are here to stay.

In men, a strong jaw; in women, high cheekbones. For both genders, smooth skin and facial symmetry are the most praised features.

Beautiful people are perceived as being healthier, wealthier, more socially dominant and more trustworthy.

According to a study developed by the University of New Mexico, beauty and symmetry are related to intelligence. This usually guarantees a better chance of negotiating promotions, having a higher income, and being overall more persuasive and able to achieve goals.

Let’s face it – Being naturally handsome at a young age does not require much effort. Some things (like your genetics) you just can’t control… but others you can.

There are several things that can help you improve your appearance and gain advantages in everyday life. Getting a good haircut and advice on how to dress more attractively can have instant and dramatic results. 

But…sometimes something a bit more extreme may be needed.  And you will need to consider what can be changed instead of focusing on things over which we have no power. A toned and proportionate body can be perceived as a trait of a hard-working person. Improving your overall appearance (either with surgical or non-surgical options) can boost a person’s self-esteem and alter the way they move and interact with others. A more confident, self-assured person is more likely to come across as successful – and this can have a positive snowball effect.

Nature might have been generous to you – or it might not. But the option to consult a plastic surgeon about making some surgical improvements to your face or body would be time well spent as an investment in your long-term wellbeing.