How Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs Applies to You

You have to wear clothes, it’s an innate basic physiological need.  The reality show, Naked and Afraid, is based on stripping people of this basic human need. The first thing many contestants do is find shelter, water and something to cover their skin.  Your clothing, your second skin, is vital to your everyday function both physically and emotionally.  Leading us to another basic human need, the social need for love, appreciation and acceptance.  

Maslow's hierarchy of needs

​When was the last time you were complimented on your appearance?  Has it been a while?  After the job interview, my client said this...
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​“Nailed it.  Seriously.  First time ever…after the interview…he asked me how many kids I had.  He said WOW.  You look good :) No one has ever told me I look good in a job interview.”  ​

​For this particular client, getting dressed in the morning was the most depressing part of his day.  How sad! Because it’s how every one of us begins the day.  Why start it off feeling depressed by the drab, faded, dated, clothes that don’t fit you? When you could start your day off being excited because you love how you’re going to look and feel that day.  This is not superficial fluff here!  It doesn’t take loads of time or money. Like most things worth doing, you just need to learn the process.  

Step 1 Know what works for you - with clear guidelines based on your shape, personally color, and personal style.  Not entirely based on current trends, but with enough variety and precision to identify the “oh so you” styles as they change.   Clearly define what works for you in one-on-one personalized sessions for women/men or a group workshop.

Step 2 Half yearly wardrobe evaluation - much better than going to the dentist! But if you let it go too long, you’ll begin to feel the pain. In subtle ways at first, such as feeling a little self-conscious or being completely overlooked instead of complimented versus feeling confident and able to look outside of yourself to help others.  Do it yourself with these guidelines or schedule a few hours with a pro.

Step 3 Shopping - create a list of gaps in your wardrobe during the wardrobe evaluation.  (You know, the top to go with the two pairs of pants that you have nothing to wear with.  Based on the cluster guidelines.)  Keep this handy, on you phone, for example.  You never know when you’ll find yourself in a store with a great sale.  Having that list will help you stay focused on building a quality wardrobe instead of contributing to the unworn impulse buy pile you’ll be donating next time you clean out your closet.

Start your new day and new year, because each day is the beginning of another year, feeling energized by making one simple tweak to your morning routine.  Understand what it feels like to finally say to yourself, “I love getting dressed in the morning!”