Ashlandsblog

Market Research

Or dating? How often do we find that people- whether they want to or not – are subtly influenced by the people they date or want to date. Exposure, proximity, access. There’s even research suggesting that middle-class people spend more money on luxury goods than wealthy people overall. It’s all about osmosis these days. You think if you stand next to Megan Fox long enough, you’ll start to look like her. And in many cases, that’s true – in some fractional way. You’ll learn the tricks of the trade, learn to dress like her, wear what she wears, take on her habits.

But then why do we love finding out that someone’s beauty wasn’t paid for – that it was inborn, natural, a gift from God? You know why? It makes people believe you’re special or gifted and, in the most compelling way, lucky to be around. Because if God’s favorite likes you, then you must be close to that -or will be, eventually.

How frequently do we find that the salesmen at our door aren’t selling us a product but an idea? The cleanest, shiniest mirror with your best self in view at all times. Perhaps the salesman at our door is actually our most desperate self.

Banks sell you time. I’m not being skeptical at all, and let me say in my defense that I’m not opposed to consumerism. I love buying things. I love an idea. In fact, when I was very depressed and disappointed in people in general—and myself—I looked to materials and thought: If Yves Saint Laurent had such an amazing vision and he brought it to life and I can purchase it? Perfection and beauty and details can exist – and can be bought.

But you know what else you can purchase these days? Everything. And if you can’t buy it? Date it.

What we’re seeing more and more is how people are able to subconsciously take on the qualities of their partners—but also literally steal their ideas. That’s only if you’re smart enough. I remember dating someone and thinking, My god, I haven’t seen someone be this sincere and selfish at the same time. Now I look at myself and think: Why did I become the exact thing I admired?

Your Instagram becomes your résumé and your stop shop. Your bank on display for people to steal ideas from. It’s no one’s fault, but there’s no agency. If everyone becomes a derivative version of another, then you’re just recycling.

Instead, I think everyone should be just like me.