Chapter 1: The Power of Getting Dressed

Getting dressed in the morning can feel like an uphill battle, especially when your cozy robe is beckoning you from the bathroom or a comforting cup of coffee awaits in the kitchen. However, taking that step can significantly boost your mood and well-being. I assure you that making this change can be transformative.

Last week, my anxiety was particularly overwhelming. While I often deal with anxiety, it reached a peak that prompted me to rethink my daily habits. After discussing with my partner, we agreed that waking up together and getting dressed before diving into the day could be beneficial.

For several years, my routine revolved around a simple pattern: slip into my robe, brew some coffee, and enjoy it while reading or writing. This worked well when I had a traditional job with set hours, but as I transitioned to working from home, this routine began to exacerbate my anxiety. Often, I would find myself unable to focus, plagued by worries about how to organize my day as my partner left for work. Ignoring the anxiety only intensified it, leaving me drained before lunch.

Eventually, I found myself sleeping the day away to escape the turmoil in my mind. I recall a light-hearted conversation with Sara Burdick about how staying in pajamas until the afternoon seems to be a common writer’s habit. Yet, for me, not getting dressed in the morning turns into yet another daunting task on my already lengthy to-do list. Suddenly, even simple errands like grocery shopping become overwhelmingly difficult, as I feel paralyzed by the prospect of getting dressed.

Taking care of oneself can feel monumental when grappling with mental health issues. Often, you find yourself less motivated to engage with the world, leading to avoidance of outings entirely because even putting on clothes feels insurmountable. This avoidance only compounds anxiety, as your to-do list grows longer.

Even on productive days spent in pajamas, I carry a heavy guilt for not being prepared to engage with the outside world. This guilt often stems from the fear of missing out on life’s opportunities.

Dress for the job you aspire to have

Initially, when my partner suggested that I start dressing as if I were heading to a physical office — before enjoying my coffee — I dismissed it as an impractical idea. The thought of changing out of my comfortable robe felt daunting. There are days when I prefer to exercise before getting ready, complicating the routine further.

Nevertheless, after some reflection, I decided to join my partner in the mornings for a brief chat about our day. This allows me to enjoy my robe while I prepare coffee. Once he leaves, it serves as my signal to get dressed, whether in casual wear or workout gear. If I aim to incorporate physical activity into my day, I try to start before 9 a.m. If that doesn't happen, I can either exercise later or simply dress up and "go to work."

I cannot express how impactful this change has been. Over the last couple of days, I’ve managed to read or write in the morning, walk our dog to the river, tend to the garden, shower, have breakfast, and start working — all before noon. On days when I skip exercise, getting dressed early gives me a renewed sense of vitality and motivation. While stress still surfaces, it’s become much more manageable and hasn’t escalated into full-blown anxiety.

I am still in the process of establishing a consistent routine that doesn’t require daily thought. So far, my foundation includes waking up alongside my partner and getting dressed right away. Additionally, I’ve started listening to Toni Jones’ "Me VS Every Me: Affirmations of Self Love" album each morning while I prepare.

After experiencing my first successful morning two days ago, I expressed to my partner how the entire day unfolded seamlessly. His playful response: “You damn hippie.”

While there's still work ahead, the burden feels lighter, and I can finally take a deep breath again.

Thank you for reading. I’m curious to know your morning strategies. How do you structure your day? Please share!

In the meantime, here's one uplifting song that has been a source of inspiration for me:

Chapter 2: Practical Tips for Managing Anxiety

The video "6 Things I Stopped Doing To Fix My Anxiety" explores practical changes one can make to alleviate anxiety. It highlights key actions to avoid, ultimately leading to a more peaceful state of mind.

In another insightful video, “I was stressed about getting dressed every day!”, the speaker shares personal experiences and strategies for overcoming the stress associated with daily routines.