Today I am excited to speak to a group of women who come together to Believe, Inspire and Grow. The organization, BIG, asked me to speak on business, branding and life balance. As I thought about how to convey the lessons that I have learned over the years that have helped me design a flourishing business, create branding & marketing success and find balance in the midst of daily chaotic living, I decided to weave into the discussion the importance of color in each area. You might ask, “Why Color?” Color touches us on many levels visually, psychologically, physiologically and emotionally. Learning how to use color can impact the big vision for your business, create harmony in your home and help you stand out in the crowded world where new empires are built every day. In today’s article I will give you simple solutions on ways you can use color to create the life and business of your dreams!
What pops into your mind when you think about the following colors red, blue, green, yellow, and purple? Do you have a favorite? Is there one you really don’t like? Do they leave you with a feeling, sensation or emotional reaction?
Colors create a range of unique experiences for each person. Each individual has a distinct imprint associated with each color that has been stamped within the cellular memory of that person. This memory imprint or association can be connected to cultural, psychological, physical or emotional factors. Let me give you an example from my own experience.
When I was young, I had severe asthma brought on by physical activity or environmental allergens. My mom would notice my wheezing and head off to find my asthma medicine. Inevitably, it would turn into a bit of a cat and mouse chase with her trying to find me and me running away as fast as I could. Fast-forward thirty years and the site of purple creates a gag reflex in my throat. This involuntary reflex is solely based on the unconscious association I have with the color purple. This demonstrates the dramatic impact colors can have on us on both a conscious and unconscious level, psychologically and physiologically. It took me years to realize there was a triggered physical and emotional response created by the color purple! Begin to notice what colors you love and which ones you truly dislike. This will help you begin to determine which colors will support you in your life.
Studies have shown that colors have a physiological impact on your body. The color blue lowers your cortisol levels while the color red increases your heartbeat. Both of these scenarios can be beneficial in some situations and negative in others. What is important is determining when and how to use different colors to create positive results in your life.
Culturally colors have meaning. Determining what cultural color associations you connect with is important when deciding which colors to use in your life and business. Before choosing a color for your business and brand think about what the cultural connection is to that color. Are you connected to that cultural symbolism?
Marketing 101 explains how you and I don’t consider or even remember a product unless we have seen that product at least 7 times. In today’s chaotic world that number has probably started to rise because we are so inundated by a barrage of products and marketing tactics. One of the best ways to get your ideal target market to notice and remember you is by using colors to connect them to your business or brand. As a consumer begin to gain an awareness around the marketing tactics that your favorite and not so favorite brands use. This will actually help you move away from being unconsciously influenced to becoming a conscious consumer.
Mommy 101 intuitively tells me that certain colors are better in a home environment than others. If I want rambunctious teenage boys than I should use a color like red. Bright, vibrant colors might be fabulous in a gym or area where there is more activity. Soothing colors are best if you are trying to create a sanctuary of calm. Determine how you want to use each room in your home to help you create your Home in Harmony.
Take a moment to think about what your big vision is for your home, business and life. What color connects with this big vision? How can you use color to positively impact each area of your life?
If you want guidance on the best colors that will support you in creating harmony in your home and business, click here to schedule your Free Success Strategy Call!
Happy Soaring!
XOXO
Image Credit: Anna Sundrud Trang