We’ve all seen fads. The latest fashions, electronic devices, toys, and diets are among the trends that come and go. What’s hot and what’s not can change virtually overnight. Merchandise that people waited in line for last year will collect dust on store shelves this year.
To keep up with the current fad means following the behavior of the crowd. In so doing, you link your desires to the desires of others. As something becomes more popular, more people become drawn to it. Whatever is attracting all of the attention may have languished in obscurity for years. But now, because it’s in the spotlight, everyone feels they need to have it.
Who starts fads and how do they start? It doesn’t really matter. Some fads are sparked by celebrities. Others are started by the media. Fads may even be intentionally started when a manufacturer limits the production of a specific item.
Regardless of its origin, by the time a fad has gained enough traction to be discernable, people are following along because of its size and notoriety, not due to any inherent value or importance.
Fads generate a lot of momentum for a number of reasons. Some feel comfort in going along with the crowd. Others want to be recognized up to date with the latest trend. There are also those who want to impress others by being among the first to jump on board with the latest fad.
Some people structure their lives to follow behind everyone else. They change direction as quickly as each new craze comes and goes. This approach is akin to being adrift on the ocean, going in whatever direction the wind and currents take you.
A fashion designer at work.
People who chase fads constantly adjust to conform to the latest trend. They can even get to the point where they have exchanged their own identity for the identity of those they follow.
When you follow fads, you get what everyone else wants rather than satisfying your own desires. It’s somewhat hollow to do something just because it’s what other people are doing. Each of us has our own desires and goals. We know what we like and dislike. We have our own opinions. But yet, so many become caught up in fads. How much satisfaction can you get by following the herd?
Don’t worry about what other people are doing. It doesn’t matter. The important consideration is understanding what you want. If you are not sure, perhaps you haven’t given it enough thought. Make sure you take some time to identify your own desires.
If you have kids, you will do them a valuable service by demonstrating by your actions that it’s not necessary to follow fads. Your kids look to you as an example for how they should behave. If they see you chasing each new fad, your children will most likely do the same.
Follow your own path and you will be much more content. Fads will come and go, but your life will be consistent, based on your own values. When something appeals to you, don’t avoid it if it happens to be a fad. Fads tend to make the things overly expensive, hard to obtain, or both. All you have to do is wait until the fad dies down. Then the price will drop and the availability will increase.
As long as you are doing what you want, because you want to do it, the current fad won’t have any impact on you. You can watch with amusement all of the other people who get caught up in the frenzy.
Bryan Golden is a management consultant, motivational speaker, author, and adjunct professor. Bryan is also the author of “Dare to Live Without Limits,” available at select bookstores or on his website by clicking here. Email Bryan at Bryan@columnist.com
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