Do certain colors seem to change your mood: Can walking into a spa help you feel more relaxed? Sit down in a restaurant and your stomach growls? Head to an upscale car dealership longing for something you’d like to drive away in?
Artists have long understood how various colors have the capacity to substantially impact moods, feelings and emotions. It is a powerful communication tool and can be used to signal action, influence temperament, and cause physiological reactions. Certain colors can raise blood pressure, increase metabolism, or cause eyestrain.
This topic has been studied by marketers to better understand how certain colors send particular messages and influence purchasing decisions. A recent article by Yelena Moroz Alpert explores the topic, “How Color Affects Your Spending”. Over 12 experts were consulted to share a composite of how 10 different colors impact spending habits. For the full article, click here:
http://www.realsimple.com/work-life/money/color-psychology-00100000097166/index.html
Here are some highlights of how colors are thought to impact temperament:
Blue
Blues can relax, soothe, and calm us. Blues can also improve focus and productivity.
Red
Red is associated with passion and energy, as well as being a bit racy. Red can raise energy levels – it has been shown to increase blood pressure and heart rate – and is known for stimulating appetites and conversation.
Yellow
Yellow makes many people feel cheerful, energetic, and happy, yet the color yellow – especially the brighter shades – can cause fatigue and anxiety with overuse.
Green
Green is a cool color that symbolizes nature and the natural world. Green is often used in decorating for its calming effect as the color is thought to relieve stress and help heal.
Think about this idea of color’s influence when preparing your next presentation, document or even getting dressed for the big meeting. Of course you have to be prepared and know your topic, but if color can provide a small edge or maybe help you rethink the template you use for that PowerPoint presentation…why not take a potential advantage in your favor?