A veneer or mask.
A fresh start or new beginning (since a carpet gives a floor a “new look”).
An attempt to control your appearance or the impression you make.
A mat on the floor (on which you sit, sleep, do yoga, etc.) can represent: the setting for a real-life activity or event, or something that’s represented by the activity for which the mat is intended (such as a welcome mat representing hospitality).
An area rug can represent: self-expression or personality, or a desire to cover up or deny something you judge or fear others will judge.
Consider also the color or other attribute of the flooring (dirty, clean, business-like, fun, etc.) and what it signifies to you.