Thinking Pink

For Sam.

This was said (written) to me recently from an old friend I hadn't heard much from in years. She's always suffered from low confidence and self esteem, but now she's trying to fight it and I wish her the best of luck with it.

The phrase inspired me to think about pink, and all the things that it represents, and to put together this collage.

Could the color pink possibly represent becoming who you want to be? 

Becoming more self confident and happy?

Becoming free?

Pink things I love:

baby roses.  mittens.  bubble gum.  fake jewelry. cherry blossoms.  sailor Chibi Moon.  cotton candy.  kamaboko.  pink champagne.  sweet (pink) milk tea.  shirley temples.  glitter eyeshadow.  strawberry milkshakes.  shrimp. orchids.  tulips. strawberry scented candles.  flowy summer dresses.  shiny painted fingernails.  sunset skies.

Pink can represent a particular attitude. Whether it's flirty or innocent, flamboyant or feminist, delicate or sexy, pink always makes a statement. It's there and delightful and it isn't shy about it, even in the most light, airy, baby pink summer dresses. 

Here are three things science claims the color pink can do:

• Stimulate energy
• Increases blood pressure, respiration, heartbeat, and pulse rate
• Encourages action and confidence

I think confidence is a key here. Pink isn't something you see every day. In fact, I can't remember the last time I saw a person walk by with more than a dot of pink on them. But that's one of the things that makes it so great. It's completely you and unique to wear a splash of pink (via a bright pink scarf over an all black ensemble, or shimmery pink eyeshadow with an otherwise simple outfit) or a fully pink get-up with a flashy pink dress and crazy pink pumps! The trick is to not feel intimidated by the color. You're wearing it because you love it, right? So who the hell cares what some guy passing you on the street thinks? If you like what you're wearing, make sure you keep that in mind and hold yourself high. 

Confidence is key. If you love you, the world will too, and your pink fuzzy hat.

As an experiment for yourself, I recommend wearing a little bit of pink every day. Whether it's a plain pink ring, a giant pink flower pendant, or a set of pink beads. Start with a little. 

How does it feel? Do you like it? Add more; a matching pink scarf, hat, & gloves set (Target usually has some for cheap) or a cozy pink sweater. 

Is this the way you want to be? When you go out (and hold on to the confidence of this super color boost), do you feel happier about yourself or your life? You're wearing something you want and you (hopefully) think is beautiful. How does it feel?

Think about the ways this simple color addition changes things; you, your environment, your life.

What about another color?

Do you feel a little brighter? A little funner?

I'm not saying you have to wear pink every day, or even that you should. But if you need a boost some time, give this a shot. 

It's a new year, let's start it off a little prettier, a little brighter, and a little more confident.

Collage made with http://www.photovisi.com/, using images collected online and text by S.W.