The casual fit is best

Compliments rarely happen when expected

Student: You look good today Mrs D. Did your husband tell you that you look good today?

Me: Thanks?

Sophomore student (yes, one of my many boys): walks up with a smirk and gives me a fist bump saying, “What’s up dawg? Oh, the fit is kickin today!”

Translation: Hi, Mrs. D, you’re my favorite. I like your outfit today.

Above is the picture of what I was wearing that day. Apparently, joggers, workout material shirt and a vest are winners. Who knew? Every Friday, that is most likely what you will find me wearing. In the warmer months, it will be a short sleeve version of that shirt and no vest. But alas, it’s comfy and athletic and the perfect Friday fit.

Once upon a time, I was in slacks and heels every day I entered the classroom. Early morning practices? Those workout clothes were not acceptable in the classroom and coaches were expected to shed them in exchange for professional attire before entering class. My feet do not miss those heels and an attempt to reinstate them would result in me limping for days.

Let me be honest with you. When a student compliments an outfit, I know I am doing something right. Even when they follow the compliment with something like, “you aren’t like the other old teachers,” I receive their nice words, laugh, and congratulate myself on staying away from the frumpy teacher vibes.

I do my best to compliment students often, on any number of things. Do I catch every new haircut, outfit, or accomplishment? Absolutely not. But I do my best because I want them to hear positive words about both the big and little things. And I want them to learn how to receive a compliment well.

There have been numerous times I have talked to females about not downplaying or negating a compliment (ladies, we do this, and it needs to stop). I want them all to own their greatness, their abilities, their gifts and talents, and work. False humility is an ugly beast, one I do not want them to grab hold of. The conversations about pride and humility lend themselves to teaching moments I love.

Own your greatness without puffing out your chest and shouting to be acknowledged. And when others do acknowledge something you have done, the person you are, or the outfit you wear, smile and say, “Thank you.” No other words are necessary. Just keep being great and look good doing it.