Inappropriate Office Attire

There is a school of thought that suggests that we should prefer comfort over professionalism. I don’t think this is always true. Appropriate clothing is a costume that people can hang their first impressions on. Even before you speak, you have been categorised, and the right clothing makes sure that first impression is right.

The right clothing is different for everyone. Less and less is there a call for suit and tie, but we still can’t get away with pajamas in the day time. Sadly. Make your clothing authentic, true to you, but like any message you send, craft the authenticity so that it matches what your audience expects.

It’s hard to break that first impression. Be authentic, but respect your audience. And please, no white socks and black shoes.

Winter Carrots

Winter carrots don’t grow much. They aren’t exactly hibernating. The leafy tops still caress the winter air, a splash of vibrant green in the twilight. They simply have no desire to move in any direction, no desire to stretch out of the snug cradle of soil they have formed for themselves.

It is hard to be a carrot in the winter. Storms lash the green tops. Frost hardens around the roots. Sunshine is in short supply and the nights last forever. If only they could find the energy to grow, they would have strong roots to stretch down into the warm soil. If they could find the strength to grow, their tops would sail in the wind, spreading wide to gather in the rays of sun.

I am a winter carrot. Spring is coming, my strength is building. It is time to grow.