The Art of Being Very Demure, Very Mindful: Tips to Simplify and Succeed at Work and Life

Do you remember when TikTok sensation Jools Lebron whispered those now-iconic words “very demure, very mindful” about her work makeup routine?

Little did she know she would spark a movement that would have us all questioning whether we could bring a bit more grace to our daily grind.

Let’s face it: the modern world seems to favour the loud, the bold, and the brash. Yet there’s an underrated charm in embracing a quieter, more intentional way of showing up—not just in what you wear, but how you navigate your day.

A demure and mindful approach isn’t just about fashion—it’s a holistic lifestyle choice, offering balance, grace, and (if we’re being real) fewer regrets from stress-induced snack runs.

Here’s how to integrate this calm yet powerful ethos into your work and life, with practical strategies that even the busiest can master.

Dress for Confidence, Not Just for the Role

Demure isn’t code for boring. Think classic silhouettes, soft palettes, and just enough detail to stand out without screaming for attention.

A crisp blouse paired with tailored trousers or a midi dress with subtle pleats whispers professionalism and polish.

These timeless choices save brainpower in the morning—because who has time for “does this match?” debates?

The Great Workplace Reset: Bringing Calm to the Chaos

If you are anything like me, you operate at the speed of light, trying to reply to emails as quickly as possible, attempting to tick off that mammoth list of tasks before your second cup of coffee and generally feeling quite overwhelmed and stressed.

But here’s a revolutionary thought: what if we… didn’t?

The demure approach isn’t about becoming a Victorian-era wallflower – it’s about bringing intention and grace to our work lives.

Think of it as your professional zen mode, but with better outfits and fewer meditation apps.

Creating Your Demure Sanctuary (Even in a Cubicle)

Your workspace should be less “fluorescent nightmare” and more “subtle sophistication.”

Make it a haven: think neutral colours, minimalist décor, and a scent that whispers calm (I love a rhubarb candle and patchouli diffuser).

If you don’t work from home, here’s how to transform your corner of the office:

Replace harsh overhead lighting with a sophisticated desk lamp.

Invest in elegant stationery that makes even printer paper look posh.

Add subtle personal touches – think minimal art prints and items that make you feel good.

A favourite pen or a calming desktop wallpaper can be your sanity saviour in a corporate sea of chaos.

Create a designated “thinking spot” away from your screen (and the bathroom doesn’t count)

The Science of Slow: Mastering Mindful Work Habits

Being demure isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s about rewiring how we approach our daily tasks:

The Lost Art of the Lunch Break

• Perhaps leave your desk rather than getting crumbs all over your keyboard
• Find a peaceful spot to eat that isn’t next to the office microwave
• Consider a short walk that doesn’t involve running errands
• Put your phone away (those TikTok videos and WhatsApp group chats will still be there in an hour)
• Switch off and read a book

Email Etiquette

• Wait 15 minutes before responding to non-urgent messages (don’t worry, the world won’t end)
• Draft responses thoughtfully (no more passive-aggressive “as per my last email”)
• Consider whether “reply all” is really necessary (hint: it rarely is)
• Use proper punctuation (multiple exclamation marks are not very demure!!!!!!)

The Gentle Art of Setting Boundaries

Being demure doesn’t mean being a doormat. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Here’s how to maintain your boundaries with grace:

Meeting Management

• Decline meetings that lack clear objectives
• Suggest email updates instead of “quick catch-ups”
• Leave when the meeting actually ends (not 20 minutes after)
• Master the art of the polite but firm “no”

Time Management

• Create buffer zones between tasks
• Don’t apologise or feel guilty for taking annual leave
• Set realistic deadlines (the world can wait)
• Maintain a dignified departure time

Mindful Communication: Beyond the Buzzwords

The demure approach to workplace communication is like a well-choreographed dance:

In Meetings

• Listen more than you speak
• Take thoughtful notes (not just doodles of your boyfriend)
• Contribute meaningfully rather than just to hear your own voice
• Perfect the art of the subtle nod

In Writing

• Craft emails with intention
• Replace unnecessary apologies with gratitude
• Keep messages clear and concise
• Add a touch of warmth without going overboard

Finding Your Flow: The Daily Demure Routine

Create rituals that ground you:

• Start your day with intention (not just panic-checking emails)
• Take regular breaks to reset and recharge
• End your day with a mindful wrap-up
• Create boundaries between work and home life

Dealing with Office Drama (The Elegant Way)

Stay above the fray without seeming aloof:

• Redirect gossip to productive conversations
• Maintain neutral but friendly relationships
• Focus on solutions rather than problems
• Perfect your “interesting, do tell me more” face even if you are mentally planning your dinner

The Power of Peaceful Productivity

Remember that being demure and mindful isn’t about suppressing your personality or becoming boring – it’s about bringing intention and grace to everything you do. It’s about working smarter, not harder, and maintaining your sanity in the process.

Daily Demure Routines: Building Sustainable Habits

Create a framework for success:

Morning Routine:

1. Intentional day planning
2. Priority setting
3. Energy management
4. Communication preparation

Evening Routine:

1. Day review practice
2. Tomorrow preparation
3. Digital disconnection
4. Mindful transition home

A Final Note

Think of this approach as your secret superpower. While others are running around like headless chickens, you will be gliding through your day with purpose and poise.

Remember, being demure isn’t about perfection – it’s about finding your own rhythm in the chaos of modern work life.

P.S. Yes, you can still wear bright colours and laugh in the office – being demure is a state of mind, not a personality transplant. And thank goodness for that!