Have you ever stood at your closet and wondered, “What in the world am I going to wear today?”
Why, oh why, do we have so many clothes and yet often have “nothing to wear?” Or, “nothing to wear that I like!”
Living in and around disorder can cause stress.
This is why many of my coaching clients want to discuss reordering what is dis-ordered – specifically their closet.
I have a three question formula that can get to the heart of the matter.
But first , remove everything from your closet.
Yes, I said EVERYTHING. Do not be tempted to just push each hanger along — whap, whap, whap – while mumbling, “Yes, I’ll keep it.” “No, I won’t”
Once it is ALL on your bed, try on each piece while asking yourself these questions:
1. “Do I love it?
Do I really, really love it? When I wear this do I feel Special? Pretty? Classy?
2. Is it flattering?
You may need a second opinion on this one.
That brown cashmere jacket with the worn elbows may be comfy, but frumpy is not fashionable.
Does it feel good on your body or are you tugging on it all the time?
One size too small (or too large) is not flattering.
Do you buy clothes that look good on you? Not the mannequin or your daughter or your best friend.
3. Does it portray the “look” I want to present?
You want to dress appropriately for your age. You do not want to dress as you did when you were 20. On the other hand, if you are in mid life and beyond, dowdiness is not necessary either.
As busy business women we are constantly being assessed on our grooming and attire.
The kind of business you are in will often set a style. Work-at-home moms have different wardrobe needs than women who sit in board rooms. A bank manager may dress differently than a restaurant hostess or a teacher.
Now return to your closet only the clothes that passed the 3 question test.
But, you might be wondering, what about all those “perfectly good clothes” you are holding onto hoping you will get thinner; or they will come back into style; or they will magically transform themselves in the back of your closet into something AMAZING.
Not going to happen!
There are people who would love to have and wear the clothes you’re not wearing regularly. They need them — so give them away! Call the Salvation Army to schedule a pick up, or drop them off at the GoodWill.
“It’s incredibly liberating (not to mention a time-saver) to know that everything in your closet fits without having to try it on. And all the extra room has left plenty of space for a celebratory shopping spree!” (from Weight Watcher Weekly 5/25/04)
Time to get to work!
Dive into more of Carolyn’s helpful and encouraging wisdom, Why Busy May Be Bad For You.
Carolyn Dunn coaches busy women who are time starved, disorganized and distracted balance a productive work life with a peaceful and nurturing home life. Instead of struggling with overwhelm, procrastination and time management issues they can learn to say “goodbye” to chaos, and “hello” to sanity. Carolyn has a strong Christian background and a Fuller Seminary Masters degree in theological studies as well as marriage and family ministries. She is actively involved in planning large conferences as well as small retreats, and has been the speaker at many seminars and workshops.
To learn more about the author please visit Carolyn Dunn Coaching.
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