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Jessica Bartow
January 25, 2021
Newsletter Article
In light of our current circumstances, many of us have experienced working from home and the challenges that may come with it. Working remotely brings changes that may have altered our productivity level. There are some things that are outside of our control (hello, children doing distance learning), but might there be an easy technique that can help us stay productive? Perhaps. If you are working right now, think about what you are wearing. How does it compare to what you would normally wear in an office?
In looking at various perspectives on this topic, the question of whether work dress impacts productivity ultimately comes down to the person. So, let’s list some pros and cons of work dress to help determine what is best for you.
When dressing for work, it helps you mentally prepare for the day. Even if you do not go into the office, putting on nice work clothes tells your mind that you are about to work. Dressing for work also affects your behavior. This one may sound odd, but it is true. Think back to how you act when attending an event in fancy attire, compared to how you act when you are at home in sweats. Perhaps you carry yourself a little bit differently, holding your behavior to a higher level to match your look. The same is true for work. Dress for work, act professionally, be more productive.
However, dressing casually has some benefits as well. Not getting ready can help save time in the morning – who wouldn’t want that? This can help you either get started with your work earlier, or do some other things that might otherwise be a distraction during your workday. And of course, dressing casually allows you to feel more comfortable which can help increase productivity.
So, take this information and apply it to yourself. You know yourself better than anyone else. How do you thrive? Is it with more structure, going through a routine in the morning to help you start off on the right note? Or do you work better with less boundaries, where you can explore and go outside of the lines?
While there may be a lot happening right now that is outside of our control, our wardrobe is something that we can still do something about. Do what works best for you.
