Haven’t we all fallen in love? But what is love? Why do we get physically attracted to someone? Why do we consider someone pretty? What should we consider to be absolute beauty? You may find this surprising, but everything related to love and attraction is rooted in biology.
Like any other living organism, you came into this world with the responsibility of passing down genes. When your parents met and decided to have you, their intentions and attraction to each other were guided and manipulated by their own genetic codes — which they, in turn, passed to you.
These codes provide all of us with a script or manual of who we are, biologically speaking. Everything from the way we look to how susceptible each of us is to developing certain diseases — even to how we select suitable partners: It all comes from DNA (So, you can blame your parents for any terrible exes you once chose.). Because chemical processes influence almost all of the magic behind the mystery of human attraction, we can assume control over it and manipulate it to our advantage.
Sight is the most powerful and developed sense humans have. You can thank DNA for that. Therefore, if you are trying to leave an impression on someone you like or at an important job interview, the way you look is essential. Dress in an unforgettable outfit complemented by strong confidence colors such as red and blue. Most people believe style and fashion are just trends. While this is true to an extent, keep in mind fashion is just a suggestion for complementing your own style. Always create looks that complement your body and personality, and don’t forget to own the uniqueness of what you are wearing.
Also, because the eyes are sensitive to movement (once again, DNA), make sure when you are maintaining a conversation you make subtle movements that mark your statements with finesse and leave nonverbal impressions of attention. Maintain an interested attitude toward the speaker and reassure them with your gestures constantly so they have your full attention.
In order to assure success in any social interaction with another person, be it romantic or professional, leave an impression on all five senses. Try your best to always be polished and presentable. Most of the time you are being judged unconsciously by the receptor: DNA causes us all to judge and select by appearance. Therefore, if you make sure to maintain a noticeable personal hygiene, you will be triggering the senses of smell at the same time you’re working the sense of sight with that stellar outfit we talked about. This combination — sight and smell — will be the most powerful.
Even if you don’t take a shower one day (hey, it happens to the best of us), use perfume and dress nicely.
If you don’t present your personality through your style, you won’t leave an impression on your targeted audience. Because we leave in a society that encourages us to follow trends and maintain a sense conformity, the only way to stand out is to be unique and creative.
During any social interaction, many ideas at the subconscious level develop from receptors inside the brain. Therefore, you can influence what’s going in your love interest’s or boss’ brain by using the five senses to your advantage. Don’t be afraid to break away from the established stereotype and feel comfortable with who you are.
Make your own trends. Leave your mark. Make sure you always stand from the crowd. Be a master of beauty.
Andrea Taboada is a UF microbiology senior. Her column appears on Wednesdays.
