The article explores the concept of 'enclothed cognition', illustrating how clothing influences behavior, mindset, and productivity. The author reflects on the psychological effects of wearing casual items, specifically a hoodie, which evokes comfort but can hinder professional performance. Research is cited, showing a connection between better attire and increased self-esteem and productivity. The piece emphasizes the importance of clothing in shaping perceptions, suggesting that while casual wear can be relaxing, it might not be suitable for serious professional engagements, especially in remote work settings.
Clothes are psychological armor, and the hoodie is an invitation to dissolve into sentient fleece. It's the sartorial equivalent of a Do Not Disturb sign.
What we wear affects how we behave, think, and perform-a concept psychologists call enclothed cognition. Clothes carry meaning, and we absorb that meaning when we put them on.
Even in my remote world-where most of my professional interactions involve floating heads on screens-I ditch the hoodie for interviews and important meetings.
A 2023 paper published in the Academy of Management Journal found that employees who dressed better than usual experienced higher self-esteem and productivity.
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