For me the distinction also has to do with getting mentally prepared. If I dive for the computer after breakfast while still in my sweats, I tend to get sidetracked and not focus on my priority tasks. But if I shower and dress, then hit the desk, then I tend to be more productive.

A friend of mine who’s been self employed for 25 years has a (not publicized) two-tiered rate. One is the “sweats rate,” meaning that it does not involve having to get dressed up to do the work from her home office. The other is the “pantyhose” rate, which involves getting dressed up and meeting the client face-to-face. I’ve always kind of liked that.

For me, I like to dress different for work than for the office. I do not think jeans are so comfortable. (I live in a warm climate.) But, I experience the same thing as the author. When you are dressed for work, you are working. But, if there is no transition, work and off work become convoluted.

I think that personnel should dress to the standard of our clients. I think it is the safest route. Some clients may care, others may not. But, when you dress you are also making a statement about how important your client is. That’s how I feel.

I find myself wearing business clothes on days I make phone calls and meet with clients, neat casual on most days, and scrappy clothes when I’m in deep development mode.

So….I’ve decided I need to have one face-to-face meeting each week followed by a few hours working outside my home, preferably somewhere that serves lattes:) This way, I wear professional clothes and remember that I’m part of the working “world.”