Years ago, I chose to ditch the suit.

I'd worn a suit most of my career. It felt good to be in one. I felt powerful, formal, and demanded instant authority and attention in one. When I was 24 and looked 17, I needed it.

But as my career progressed they were just constricting - and not just because I love pizza.

They were constricting the interactions I had with employees.

When I became the employee engagement champion for the FAA, I remember looking in the mirror and thinking - how could I be approachable, friendly, outgoing, and open if I was dressed like a super formal boss all the time?

So, I ditched the dark suits and brought in color as I started a new blazer collection: Green. Bright pink. Orange. Even this "Super Florida" hot pink and white striped blazer with navy blue detailing in the picture here.

People warmed to me. I didn't change, I was still the same human being that uses a lot of self-deprecating humor.

It wasn't the person that changed, just the packaging.

That was ten years ago but here's what that simple dress code change taught me:

*It's difficult to lead others when they feel they can't approach you.

*It's hard to win hearts and minds if your team can't approach to understand you have a heart and soul.

*It's impossible to innovate or be creative in a culture of fear.

*You can't hope to be inclusive if you're scared to let your weird out.

So leaders, let your weirdo out. Your weird is your superpower.

And your teams will love you for it.