I just returned from working at Brendon Burchard’s High Performance Academy, a rollicking, big-hearted, high-energy event with 1500 participants. It was a blast + I learned a lot.
In the mornings I was posted at one of the doors to greet people. There was a huge sign behind me with one of Brendon’s slogans on it that said, “Bring the Joy.” I loved seeing that sign every day.
As I hugged and high-fived participants, so many of them commented on the hats I wear. In the rush, there wasn’t time to say much more than “Oh, thank you,” or “So sweet of you to say!” But their comments — and that joy sign on the door— reminded me what it is about hats that means so much to me.
Why the heck do I wear hats?
It’s about allowing myself to be the person inside of me who really wants out:
I was always drawn to hats, particularly the cloche, which was especially popular in the 1920’s. I grew up in a small town in Ohio and didn’t know anyone who wore hats. I wouldn’t even have known where to buy one. Later, after college, when I had moved to Manhattan, there were lots of places to buy hats. But I didn’t know how to begin. It seemed like wearing a hat would feel so affected. Like I was trying to draw attention to myself. I was sure I would look dopey.
My boyfriend at the time, Bill, must have gotten tired of hearing me whine about “I wish I were the kind of woman who could wear hats,” because he said to me, “Here’s the thing: Buy a freakin’ hat, put it on your head, and wear it. At first you will feel completely awkward, but after a short while, it’ll feel normal and you’ll be a woman who wears hats.”
Bill was right.
I don’t remember how long it felt awkward, but I do know that girl inside of me who had always wanted to wear hats was ecstatic. She still is.
Is there someone inside of you who is screaming to be let out? Can you give her a hand?
It’s about wearing art/offering beauty:
I have a dear friend who is a milliner. She makes a lot of the hats I wear. She really believes that we can bring more beauty to the world through our apparel. And this is what she said to me: “When I am making a hat, I imagine all of the people who will feel beauty, joy, and love when they see this hat. I weave in love with every stitch. I want my hats to radiate joy.”
I know that when I’m wearing her hats, there is more to them then fabric + thread. To her (and to me) it isn’t about “fashion” — it is about art, beauty, and celebration.
When I see someone walking down the street in clothing that is artful and expressive, it really does brighten my day. It is like wearable art. It uplifts. Adds color. Gives oomph.
Is there something in your closet that feels like art? Do you let yourself wear it on an any-day Tuesday?
It’s about the practice of daily celebration:
Wearing hats is a deliberate joy practice for me. It reminds me that every single day of my life is a special occasion + cause for celebration.
I used to save my favorite clothing “for good,” but now part of my spiritual practice is remembering that every moment of my life is a perfect time to bring out the best of what I have — and who I am.
None of us knows how long we have on this planet. Today could be the last day of my life. Hats are a tangible reminder to me to “bring the joy” right now.
What reminds you to “bring the joy” to yourself and others every day?
I’d love to hear: What is it for you? What reminds you to bring the joy into your daily life? Please post a comment!
Hats off to you,
Sherry
P.S. Here’s a link to my talented friend’s Etsy store full of lovely hats.
P.P.S. Thanks to Andrea Scher for the photo of me up above.