Hello friends…happy Friday to everyone! I’m so glad that you stopped and hope that you have had a nice week. The weather has been incredible here in the middle of the east coast. I don’t think this is the most stunning leaf display we have had but it is still very pretty. Just in the last day or so, many of the leaves have fallen. Those that are still hanging on have changed color but not “brilliantly,” I might say. But, we do the best we can, right:)
And today is my inaugural post for the return of Friday with Friends. For those who might not know, I used to do a series, if you will, of posts called Friday with Friends. I would pose a question and blog visitors could leave their answers in the comments. Just by way of discussion. The blog version of a chat over coffee. If you don’t generally comment, no worries. I’m just glad you are here. Either way, I hope we all simply enjoy each others’ answers and that you enjoy your visit to my corner of the blog world.
This week we are chatting about first impressions. I hope no one was offended. We leave in a world that is quick to raise the “don’t judge me” sign. And often it seems as if few are at all worried about a first impression. (They do not want to be judged for their lack of effort.) However, first impressions are a reality and, honestly, I don’t think having/forming a first impression is judgmental. Forming a first impression is involuntary, for lack of a better word. They are quick assesments and formed opinions based on appearance, situation or tone. Granted they are surface level opinons and can be shaped, changed and/or updated. Judgments are much more intentional and are usually formed on experiences, biases, etc. Good or bad, they tend to be much more deep-seated. Of course, I want to be careful that my first impressions don’t become judgements. But I do form first impressions as well as make them.
Okay, that was a tad deeper than I meant to start. These Friday with Friends are meant to be, for the most part, light-hearted and fun. So let’s move on. I asked the other day what you thought forty percent of women (according to “the survey”) used as the basis for their first impression of other women. And the survey said….shoes. I was not exactly surprised by this and will admit to often noticing women’s shoes. Especially if they are trendy, fun or are the star of the outfit! And, for some reason, I do this a lot when I am watching TV. Side note: men’s shoes, too. Have you noticed the shoe choices of sportscasters lately??
But I think shoes would come in second for me. When I walk into a room full of women I do not know, I most certainly will notice everyone’s hair. I will take note of those with cute haircuts. And even hair that is “fixed”…as in brushed:) I also will admit to fussing over my own hair way too much. I am never quite happy with it. And I mess with it often. So, maybe I just have an issue with hair. I dunno. But I do notice hair…or hairstyles. If you have cute hair, I’ve already formed an opinon about you. HA – just kidding. But I just might ask you where you get your hair cut??
Well, I do hope you will let me know what you thought the survey would say….and what your own answers might be. I look forward to reading your thoughts. And other noticier of cute hair out there…lol? And, just for the record….that photo of me on the sidebar? My hair does not look anything like that anymore. My hair is straight and quite a bit darker. Talking about hair reminded me that I need to update that. Note to self. And here’s to a good weekend ahead.
An interesting question. I think the first thing I notice is if they have a genuine smile when you introduce yourself. But after that I guess I can agree with you that hair comes a close second. I have been known to comment on people’s hair and ask which salon they go to! I am always in a cycle of growing my hair, being happy with the length for about two hair cuts and then going shorter again – I haven’t found my happy style yet!
I’m pleased that I have freshly washed and styled hair while I’m typing this, just in case you can see me through the screen 😉
Oh Deb – I don’t think I have found my happy style yet either! At this stage…will I ever?? I’m do for a salon visit on Thursday and already plotting “what can I do different this time”?? So glad you stopped by and hope you are enjoying a great day, my friend!
Happy Friday, Jennifer! Interesting the survey said shoes! Walking into a place/room, I usually look at people’s faces (are they inviting or looking like they want to be somewhere else?) followed by what they are wearing (including shoes). I hope you have a fantastic Friday and wonderful weekend.
I do notice what folks are wearing…but cute shoes can make (or break) any cute outfit!:) Thanks so much for stopping by, Robin. I hope your corner of Virginia is cozy this morning. This morning, we turned on the heat for the first time this fall! Have a wonderful weekend!!
I completely agree with your first impression vs. judgement analysis. I don’t think I’ve ever thought much about it but you’re right. And I love to go a little deeper yet still have fun so this post is perfect :). I think I tend to notice hair first. It usually says something about the person’s age (not always!) and vanity level (again not always). I don’t recall noticing people’s shoes but I probably do take that in. Now I’m going to be self conscious about what shoes I wear, lol! Have a great Friday and weekend.
Maria, more and more I see it..we are kindred spirits:) Much can be said by one’s hair!! I hope if you start noticing shoes, you will see all the cute ones!:) By the way, shoes can say alot about someone’s age as well. Much like hair. And sweatshirts!!:)
This might sound silly but I notice people’s eyebrows. It’s because I absolutely hate mine so I get jealous of people who have nice ones. I don’t usually notice a person’s shoes, maybe because I’m always looking straight into their face and not downward. I do notice hair too. And if they seem approachable (smiling, happy).
I would say I notice eyebrows. Maybe not all the time but folks do spend much more time on their brows these days. Is that a trend that will pass? I’m not sure but who would have imagine entire shops/salons just for eyebrows?? Thanks for stopping by…and joining the fun this morning!!