When boxers train they watch film of their opponents-study what the opposition’s “go-to” is. They also study themselves–they know their reflexes, understand that their personal “go to” is, to be better prepared, to change bad habits if necessary, to make themselves better. It’s the same in any sport–Football coaches not only study the opposing teams tape–they make sure they know what their own QB will do in times of stress. Study acting for any period of time–your teacher will want you to keep a journal; as it’s impossible to really “be” anyone else unless you understand your own habits and self. As one of my favorite spin teachers explains,” You got to know your punches, you have to know what you fall back on, what you go to. It’s the only way to prepare and it’s the only way to change yourself”. So, we can agree that understanding yourself is important, now you may be asking: what does this have to do with a fashion blog?
We’ve spent the week talking about cleaning out your closet–and hopefully you’ve touched your clothes and were really able to see what you have, what you need, and where those two circles meet. So, what are your punches? What do you tend to buy? Is it what you need? Or do you need to change? Lovers, there is not a gray t-shirt or party dress that I don’t love. Those are my punches. Shop anywhere with me and you will see me reach over and over again for gray shirts and dresses that are worthy of a great cocktail party, if not a red carpet. There’s nothing wrong with either of these-my right hook works-but there does come a time where I may need to buy something else. (Sidenote, someone invite me to a party, I have plenty to wear)I know this about myself. And yet–I have to go through things and remind myself that I don’t need to fall back on the two things that make me comfortable. There are so many great things out there–incorporating new punches can be a good thing.
Of course, this could work for any part of life–I know that there are habits that I fall back on in all areas of my life. Some serve me, some probably need some tweaking. The point in any of these disciplines is not to completely scrap all of your habits (and yes, I just called shopping a discipline), but to use your habits to your best advantage. If your right hook is great, keep it. If it could occasionally use a left jab–it’s just about learning to use that as well. Will I still reach for a gray shirt or a party dress? Yes. The hope is I will think it through and put it back if needed, and also reach for the black pants that I need. So again, what do you reach for? And is it something you need?
Wishing us all a week of things we want and need, and amazing shoes! XO RA
