Tuesday, January 28, 2014

Staying Warm: Style vs. Function

Admit it – most people want to feel stylish these days, like they have a pulse on what’s ‘in’ and what’s ‘out’. But then the frigid temperatures roll in and grab our necks like a loose-fitting noose. The question then becomes ‘Is it all about style vs. function?’ OR ‘Can we have both?’ Perhaps wearing the required dress khakis and a nice blouse to the office changes over to a warm pair of cords or jeans with a classic winter sweater. Maybe the stylish shoes need to temporarily get replaced with wool socks and a pair of boots. Is it really about the style and looking good for everyone else or can we find a way to please both those around us and stay warm at the same time? I’m certainly not suggesting that we wear sweatpants and baggy sweatshirts to the office. Even I don’t think that conveys professionalism.
The bottom line is that we should feel confident in the work we are producing at work, but be smart enough to stay healthy while we do it. Hopefully the Polar Vortex will soon be nothing more than a distant memory. In the meanwhile, if you’re a supervisor, try to show your employees some grace. Understandably some jobs require uniforms (airline pilots, restaurant wait staff, medical personnel, police officers and firefighters, and ‘yes’ even circus clowns); but if you’re a teacher in a drafty classroom or work in an isolated cubicle … I suggest warmth (space heaters under the desks, scarves around your neck, and a big mug of hot tea). After all – a warm camper is a happy camper.
What are you doing to stay warm these days?

2 comments:

  1. I work in a cubicle. I have a space heater, lap blanket, and hot tea. My cube partner has the heater we share, an electric blanket that plugs into her computer, fingerless gloves, a sweater, and a hot drink. :)

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  2. I'd say you've got a well thought out plan. Good for you!

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