I’m just sharing what worked for me, but you don’t have to do the same. I’ve followed these ideas and can say I’ve found my own style that I stick to and feel good in. Here are a few things that helped me:

Be yourself

This is one of the key points. Many try to imitate others but don’t strive to create themselves. As Oscar Wilde said: “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” Only then can you radiate energy and attract people to you. I’m always inspired by people, both as individuals and by their style (often both), and I emphasize what attracts me but don’t copy them. I ask myself questions: what can I improve in his image or what do I like about this person, and if I like something, I think about how it can help me and what I need to do to acquire that quality. Thus, I always ask myself and engage in dialogue with myself on this matter.

Say "yes" to life

Let me give you an example from my recent conference in Vienna. I was offered to give a lecture on men’s style, and the first thing that happened was that I was surprised and scared. What if I couldn’t do it? It’s such a responsibility and so on. But I immediately said to myself, “Of course, I’ll go, and everything will work out for me!” I didn’t close myself off to it. The moment when we feel we are definitely ready for something never comes, so why should we close our doors to such opportunities? Don’t close yourself off from your fears; that’s how you step out of your comfort zone, and only then will you become stronger, able to create yourself and your style.

Anton's own style

Be thankful for any experiences

Show me a person who had everything good and learned nothing. The best teacher is the lessons of life that we receive. Only obstacles help us to open our eyes and try to find solutions. Often, comfort zones and good conditions relax us, and then it hurts to fall. But when you learn, don’t be afraid to make mistakes and fall, you start to appreciate everything that happens to you. I really like the expression: there are good times and there are good lessons. It helps me a lot.

Try new stuff

By my example, I always think about what I want. I realized that I needed to learn to be more flexible and went to learn tango. It helped me to be more open in society. The same was true for acting courses. Sports, walks, there’s so much to do. How can you manage to do it all?

Anton Masko with a cup of a coffee

Optimism can make a big difference

As they say, optimists rule the world, while pessimists are just guests. And I fully agree. A person who complains about everything around him doesn’t notice all the good he has. Two people can look at the same picture differently. Just look around and see how much good surrounds you right now.

Fact in the Spotlight

Why is a loop needed on the lapel:

The lapel loop, or what is now called a boutonniere loop, actually served not only to occasionally hold a boutonniere. Initially, it had a corresponding button on the other side that could be used to protect oneself from wind and cold. However, as coats became popular for wearing in cold weather, suit jackets are no longer worn in this manner. In fact, you may notice that some elegant coats still have a functional loop on the lapel and a button.

Quote of the Week

Don’t look for yourself, create yourself! Be open to the world, and remember – you are unique, and there’s no second you!
Anton Masko

That’s all for today. See you on Saturday next week!

Yours sincerely, Anton Masko