I wear red trainers to work every day.

I have discovered that wearing red trainers is like acquiring a superpower.

Everyone who has ever commented on them has only had positive things to say: they wish they had a pair like that; they love them; they think they’re so cool. It is no lie when I tell you that I receive compliments about my red trainers every week.

(Before you ask, I do have more than one pair of red trainers: I alternate between my two pairs of red Nikes and my red Pumas).

But wearing bright footwear is just the start of this story.

For the past year, I have been experimenting with dressing for emotional empowerment.

What do I mean by that? I’m talking about wearing clothes that make you feel more positive about yourself; consciously selecting to wear colours and styles that boost your self-esteem and self-confidence. Choosing not to dress like everyone else. Choosing not to “blend in” but instead deciding to stand out, with purpose and intent. To dress like you mean it.

And these shoes really do make me stand out at work; they spread joy wherever I go, not just within me, but for those people that I encounter along the way.

I used to wear black and brown shoes to work, like most men in education. But that was boring. I often felt insignificant, invisible and ignored.

Wearing red trainers changed all that.

Red trainers aren’t just a fashion statement: they’re a mindset.

So, put your best foot forward and strive to be different. Dress with intent. Dress like you mean it. It’ll change the way you feel about yourself.