Who knew that choosing your clothes intentionally could have such a profound impact on your success and productivity? In our latest podcast (which you can listen to here) we spoke about how Sarah has recently done a full closet cleanout, while Anna has gone and bought herself a full new capsule wardrobe (unsure what that is? You can read more about it here) We decided to dive into the exciting world of intentional dressing and explore how it can amp up your mindset and turbocharge your achievements. So put on your favorite outfit, grab a coffee, and get ready to have some fun while upgrading your wardrobe game!
There’s more to love about clothes than, well, clothes. Research suggests that the clothes we wear can significantly impact our mindset, productivity, and overall success. Whaaa??! Yep, that’s what we thought too (put the credit card away, mate, or at least finish reading this blog first.)
Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life. When we consistently dress in clothes that make us feel successful and accomplished, we create positive associations between our attire and these feelings. Over time, this repetition reinforces neural pathways related to success, making it easier to tap into feelings of productivity and achievement.
Dress for the mood you want.
Want to feel like a superhero tackling the day’s challenges? Dress like one! Studies have shown that clothing choices can influence our emotional state by triggering certain neural pathways in the brain. Dressing intentionally in clothes that evoke positive emotions can stimulate the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with motivation and pleasure. Even better, wearing comfortable attire can lower stress levels and promote a sense of relaxation, which is conducive to productivity and success. If this isn’t your permission to whip out the “Loungewear” right now, I don’t know what is.
So, if you’re feeling a little down, swap the old warn out tights with holes in them for a vibrant, confidence-boosting outfit that screams, “I’ve got this!” Dressing for the mood you want to experience can help ignite those positive vibes and increase your motivation.
Power pose in the mirror.
Ever strike a pose in front of the mirror like you’re hosting a one-person fashion show? Well, here’s the thing – it actually works! Stand tall, put your hands on your hips, and strike a power pose. This simple act will activate your brain’s executive functions, boosting your confidence and readiness to tackle the day head-on.
When individuals feel confident, they experience a boost in self-assurance, self-esteem, and a reduction in self-doubt. These psychological changes are associated with elevated levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter responsible for regulating mood, cognition, and decision-making. By fostering a positive self-perception through well-chosen clothing, we can actually enhance our brain’s capacity for focus, decision-making, and problem-solving.
Plus, it’s a great opportunity to appreciate how bloody mouth watering you look!
Add a splash of colour.
One easy way to liven up your wardrobe and elevate your mood is to inject some vibrant colours into your outfits. Want to feel energetic and creative? Go for a bold red or a vibrant yellow. Need to enhance focus and clarity? Opt for calming blues or refreshing greens. Experiment with colours that resonate with you and unleash your personal vibe!
Create a signature style.
Finding your go-to style can be a game-changer. Establishing a signature look not only saves valuable time in the morning but also boosts your confidence and presence. Whether it’s a schmicky suit, a bohemian twist, or casual chic, embrace a style that represents your personality and makes you feel fantastic. Your signature ensemble will become your secret weapon for conquering any challenge.
Mix and match for a creative boost.
Unleash your inner fashionista and mix and match your clothing combinations! Combining unexpected pieces can stimulate creativity and activate different areas of your brain. Embrace those patterned socks, experiment with layering, and play with accessories. Get out of your fashion comfort zone and watch your style and productivity soar!
Plan ahead to avoid wardrobe woes.
Preparation is key to avoiding stressful wardrobe moments.
By treating the act of selecting our outfit as a deliberate and thoughtful process, we engage in a ritual that signals the brain to transition from a restful state to an active and focused state. This ritualistic behavior primes the brain for productivity, allowing individuals to approach their tasks with heightened attention and clarity.
Take a few minutes before bed to plan your outfit for the next day. This small act helps reduce decision fatigue and allows you to start the day with a clear mind. Plus, it’s a chance to flex your style muscles by curating killer ensembles that will leave you feeling confident and ready to tackle anything.
Dressing intentionally has the power to transform not only your wardrobe but also your mindset and productivity. By adopting some fun and easy strategies, such as dressing for the mood you want, power posing, embracing colors, cultivating a signature style, mixing and matching, and planning ahead, you can unleash your inner fashionista and conquer the world with confidence and style.
Remember, your wardrobe is an extension of your personality, so have fun expressing yourself and let your clothes be your secret weapon for success!
Now go out there, rock your wardrobe, and watch as your productivity soars to new heights!
References:
– Adam, H., & Galinsky, A. D. (2012). Enclothed cognition. Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, 48(4), 918-925.
– Hurlburt, T. F., & Akhter, S. A. (2008). Unsymbolized thinking. Consciousness and Cognition, 17(4), 1364-1374.
– Lyubomirsky, S., King, L., & Diener, E. (2005). The benefits of frequent positive affect: Does happiness lead to success?. Psychological Bulletin, 131(6), 803-855.
– Phelps, E. A., Ling, S., & Carrasco, M. (2006). Emotion facilitates perception and potentiates the perceptual benefits of attention. Psychological Science, 17(4), 292-299.
