(2 min read.) Like many of the writing techniques here on my blog, this oddball creative writing tip is backed by science. For better creative performance, you can leverage the phenomenon of “enclothed cognition.”
If you want to write better or differently, try changing how you’re dressed. SERIOUSLY. Change your pants, change your words. That’s the layman’s translation of “enclothed cognition.” Here are a few specific (and I think kinda mind-blowing) stories from the lab.
What’s the Science on this Writing Tip?
Three different studies confirmed that when random people put on a scientist’s white lab coat, it helped them PAY MORE ATTENTION TO DETAILS. Wearing the coat made them act more like scientists: focused, specific, and precise.
Another study confirmed that an article of clothing can make you work harder: kids tried for longer on a tough task WITHOUT GIVING UP when they were dressed like superheroes. They were willing to honestly attempt doing something nearly impossible, simply because they had capes on.
Use this knowledge in your writing practice. Zipping up a different outfit can change what you write. Or, whether you write at all. But not just any outfit will do.
Enclothed cognition hits hardest when the piece of clothing has symbolic meaning. (science fact.) If it’s the uniform of a person whose whole identity rests on having certain skills or abilities (a scientist, a superhero), wearing it can bring out those same abilities in you.
How to Use this Writing Tip
I don’t really dress like I think a writer does. (When I think of “an author” I always picture expensive and tasteful cardigans, and I’m happy to say that will never be me.) But I do dress to change my writing behavior.
When I want my writing to be bolder and more fun, I’ll put on a leopard-print jumpsuit that reminds me not to take myself so seriously; a playful person’s uniform. When I want to feel more energized to keep going, I’ll change into the athletic workout clothes I wear when I’m huffing my way through the blissfully sweaty last mile of a run: a persistent person’s uniform. When I’m frustrated with making slower progress, I’ll put on my most comfortable worn-out leggings (a gentle person’s uniform) to remind myself it’s useful to be gentle.
Is all this kinda embarrassing? BIG YUP. Dressing up all alone in your room just to write (not even for an Instagram selfie) might sound awkward. It can be, the only way to know if it works for you is to try it. Changing your clothes to change your pages may feel odd, but it is also free, actionable, and science-based. Most importantly (in my experience) it really works. Especially on days when it feels like nothing else will.
If this all sounds a bit like nonsense, perhaps you’d like to try simply changing the color of your shirt. Soft blue reduces blood pressure, which helps if you’re having anxiety about your work. Strong or vivid blues can make logical or rational thought easier, which is great for problem-solving and planning. Sunshine yellow can increase creativity and may even boost self-esteem. This isn’t just me pretending to be a Pinterest mood board; these are details from an actual study on color and mood. (science facts.)
In conclusion:
Change your clothes, change your pages.
(I don’t make the rules.)
Science has spoken.
(For more science-based creative writing tips, try 55 Ways to Stop Procrastination.)
xo, megan
There’s no one way to write. There’s only your way. I hope some of my tactics and ideas can help you find it.
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