Remote Tea 👚 Ditch the PJs: WFH Wardrobe Hacks for Mind & Productivity
Issue 205
Working smarter
Welcome back, and hello to all new subscribers! Let’s start with another tip on improving your ability to find balance and rhythm in your workday.
Dress for productivity
While the freedom of pajamas at your desk is tempting, research suggests there's a link between how you dress and your mental state while working remotely. Here's why:
Signaling your brain: Putting on work clothes acts as a cue, telling your brain it's time to focus and shift into "work mode." This mental switch helps you avoid distractions and procrastination.
Boosting confidence: Wearing clothes that make you feel good can elevate your mood, self-esteem, and confidence, leading to better performance and more assertive communication.
Maintaining boundaries: Having a dedicated "work wardrobe" helps separate your work life from your personal life, preventing work from bleeding into every aspect of your day. This is crucial for preventing burnout.
Professionalism remains important: Even in virtual interactions, dressing appropriately for your industry and role projects a professional image. This is especially important for client meetings or video calls.
10 Steps to Dress for Productivity (Without Sacrificing Comfort):
Define your "work uniform": Choose clothes that are comfortable yet professional, reflecting your industry and personal style. Think cardigans, joggers, or flowy dresses instead of pajamas or gym clothes.
Create a "getting ready" ritual: Showering, doing your hair, and taking a few minutes to get dressed signals the start of your workday, boosting focus and motivation.
Level up for specific occasions: Elevate your attire for important meetings or presentations. A blazer over your usual top can instantly increase confidence and project professionalism.
Embrace comfort with boundaries: Invest in comfortable yet polished pieces like stretchy work pants or breathable fabrics. Avoid clothes that are too tight, restrictive, or cause distractions.
Prioritize fit over trend: Clothes that fit well naturally look more polished and feel more comfortable, creating a sense of confidence and ease.
Accessorize mindfully: Jewelry, scarves, or a statement watch can add personality and elevate your work outfit without sacrificing comfort.
Invest in key pieces: Build a capsule wardrobe with versatile pieces you can mix and match, reducing stress and decision fatigue in the mornings.
Listen to your body: Comfort is key. If something feels itchy, restricting, or distracting, switch it out for something more suitable.
Consider "power dressing": Research suggests certain colors and styles can impact mood and confidence. Experiment to find what makes you feel powerful and ready to tackle tasks.
Make it fun! Experiment with different looks and express your style within professional boundaries. Feeling good in your clothes can boost your mood and productivity.
Remember, dressing for productivity is about finding a balance between comfort and professionalism that works for you. Experiment, adjust, and prioritize what allows you to feel confident, focused, and ready to conquer your workday, even from the comfort of your home.
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Finding inspiration
Remember to seek out new perspectives regularly through books, experiences, podcasts, products, events, or visiting with your fellow remote workers.
A light therapy lamp can help to improve mood and energy levels. These lamps, also known as SAD lamps, offer several potential benefits for work-from-home professionals, especially during the winter months or in situations with limited natural light exposure.
We have several of these lamps to help with a midday pick-me-up on darker days.
Things to Consider:
Not a cure-all: Light therapy lamps are not a one-size-fits-all solution and may not work for everyone. Consulting a doctor is recommended if you suspect SAD or have other underlying health conditions.
Choosing the right lamp: Look for lamps with at least 10,000 lux and UV-free light. Consider factors like size, portability, and adjustable brightness settings to find one that suits your needs and preferences.
Proper usage: Follow the recommended usage guidelines for your specific lamp, which typically involve sitting near the lamp for 30-60 minutes daily at specific times.
Overall, light therapy lamps can be a valuable tool for remote work setups, especially in situations with limited natural light. However, it's important to weigh the potential benefits against the limitations and consult your doctor if needed.
Recent news
We read a lot of news so you don’t have to 😉 . Check out these noteworthy reads.
3 Ways Remote Work Will Save You Money in 2024
If you're considering ditching your in-person employer for one that allows remote work, here's a closer look at how you can save money in the process. Full Story: The Motley Fool
AI creates more 6-figure, remote work opportunities
Mark Kashef had long considered finance the most stable, lucrative field you could work in — until the release of ChatGPT. Full Story: CNBC
Could vacant office spaces across the U.S. be the solution to a national problem?
Across the United States, empty office buildings are leaving once-bustling downtown areas with less foot traffic and are forcing experts, residents and officials to figure out what exactly will happen with these vacant structures. Full Story: NPR
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