When I first graduated college and moved to NYC, I constantly overslept because I hated my job. This left me with no time to pick out my outfit in the morning, and most days ran out the door looking like a hot mess--clothing not coordinating, forgetting accessories, and wearing outfits that didn't really fit me anymore.
Although I was working in Advertising at the time, where the dress code was a bit more casual, let's be real here: Looking like a hot mess affected my mood for the entire day and it affected how I approached my position at the job.
Even now, working primarily from home, I make the effort to get up and take time with my style in the morning. This is because, even when it's only me who sees me during the day, taking the time to dress myself and put myself in a confident mindset increases my productivity dramatically.
Inspired at how my daily routine that has increased the productivity of my clients' and myself, I've put together five ways to help you start your morning with style and confidence everyday.
1. Confidence and Style Starts With This...
First thing's first, lay out your outfit the night before. Yes, just like you may have done when you were a kid.
Set aside 10 minutes and start by looking at your calendar and asking yourself about your commitments for the following day? Then, identify the type of outfit that would have you feeling confident and stylish for what you have scheduled.
I also think it's good to pick out the accessories the night before. Bonus points if you lay out two sets of accessories, giving you a fun choice in the morning, once you're dressed.
This way you won't be running around trying to think through an entire day's attire before you've even had your morning cup of joe. We all deserve to get dressed with ease.
2. Skip The Morning News
It's time to play music and dance instead of turning on the TV! It's great to be well informed, but often the news is negative and can leave you in an energetic funk.
Personally, I began to notice that on the mornings I watched the news I felt lethargic and apathetic throughout the day. I was not the picture of confidence and poise that I wanted to be.
Find a Pandora or Spotify station that inspires you and gets your energy up. Be ready with a specific artist or playlist to put on first thing when you wake up!
3. Have Clothing For The Body You're In NOW
Your clothing should fit you. Wait. Let me say that again: Your clothing should fit you. Not the body you had 20 pounds ago (plus or minus).
So many women hide in their clothing. Often, I've found women live in the fantasy of what their body once looked like, or what they dream it will look like. This leaves them hiding in their clothes now. Ladies, let's put an end to it. The present moment is all you get, and by hiding in behind your clothes you are wrecking your self confidence and robbing yourself of the opportunity to feel stylish.
Just like you would stock your fridge with healthy foods, start stocking your closet with clothes that hug your curves.
4. Take A Beauty Moment
Style and confidence goes way beyond an outfit. When you take the time to appreciate your body by doing something like your makeup or hair, you feel good. Your confidence goes up and you are ready for what comes your way. If you're not a make-up gal, this step is still important. Instead, it can even be as simple as putting on lotion and appreciating your curves.
When you connect with your body, you feel centered and are less likely to get lost in your head. So, each morning, carve out at least 10 minutes to put on lotion, wear a fun shade of lipstick and give your hair some style!
5. Strut Your Stuff!
Finally, put on a fun pair of heels and leave those worn, clunky, sneaker-like shoes in the closet. If you can't hack the heels all day, just spend 5 minutes at home with your favorite song blasting and strut your stuff around the room.
Pumps really do "pump you up." There's no other way to say it. Giving yourself an extra 3 inches grows your confidence 10 fold. Personally, I find the clicking of heels to sound strong and powerful.
So, pull out your favorite pair of heels, turn up the tunes and start channeling your inner Beyoncé!
Now that you've got the five keys to starting your days with more confidence and style, I'd love to hear from you below. Which of these five tips will you start to incorporate into your morning routine, tomorrow?