With my career change came a welcome shift in workplace culture — a more breathable dress code, clean, simple workspaces, and a fresh canvas for self identification. I fell into step with this way-of-the-workplace almost instantly because it feels very natural, productive and positive. I traded trousers for denim, and outfit stress for wardrobe joy.

There are endless articles out there about successful people who have embraced an unusual habit that increased their focus and productivity. “Simplify your decision-making processes by building habits,” touts my favorite article (“Why Successful People Wear the Same Thing Every Day”) from Inc.

A simple way to save brain power is to winnow down the number of decisions we need to make. By creating a go-to outfit of jeans and a white shirt, I have reduced (drastically) the articles of clothing I own. I waste less time, I save brain power, and most days I feel really good in what I’m wearing because my wardrobe is composed of pieces I love to wear.

Thanks to my favorite consignment store, Worn (three metro locations), I know the pieces that don’t make the cut in my closet find good homes, and either recoup a little money or help the community through a Goodwill donation.

My one-eighty helped me uncover and define what I’m passionate about at home and at work. But I don’t advise going it alone. Working with a mentor early on in my search helped me identify and connect the dots on initiatives that excite me, how to position my experience, and getting over the fear of rejection in a tough job market.

Your unique habit should be something that excites you and motivates you in ways unrelated to the actual habit — i.e., my go-to outfit makes me more productive at work. Maybe you’ve adopted the theory of the 20-minute nap, or sitting in a rocking chair or standing on your head to regain focus? Perhaps you climb a tree every day, flex your toes 100 times before bed, or read and write in the nude for one to two hours each morning.

My one-eighty gave me the grace to discover the quirk that has made me more productive, less anxious, and brimming with renewed motivation. The habits that make some people more focused and fulfilled may not work for you. Rest assured you’re not sabotaging your own success if you wake up late, suck at yoga or can’t get into journaling. Find your thing and do that thing — until it no longer works. Then start the rediscovery all over again.