Hiding Behind a Label

Materialism: preoccupation with or emphasis on material objects, comforts, and considerations, with a disinterest in or rejection of spiritual, intellectual, or cultural values. (encyclopedia.com) I am materialistic. I like to think I have spiritual, intellectual and cultural values but I am also insanely preoccupied with material objects and comforts. I think I have been brought up in a society, culture and environment that is materialistic therefore breeding more materialistic offspring. For awhile I thought I could spare my children by raising them in a different environment but then I realized things, possessions are everywhere and until we all (me included) shift our thought process, nothing will change. I was walking in the mall the other day when I passed two women around my age in Northface winter coats and UGG boots, virtually identical to each other. As I passed I looked down at my Northface coat and UGG boots and realized that I was a cookie cutter example of those women. I am not cutting edge enough to wear “Heli inspired” clothes, or even runway inspired clothes. However, is it really necessary for me to be identical to every northshore girl? Perhaps it’s really just an insecurity. If I dress and act exactly the same as everyone else, I won’t be noticed. Why am I afraid of being noticed? I am a successful, opinionated, strong willed woman. Why shouldn’t everyone notice this? Why do I feel more confident being that person if I’m hiding behind designer cult favorites? Why do I need Northface coats or UGG boots in order to be myself? Why do I find it liberating clutching a designer bag? Shouldn’t it be less liberating since thousands of women just like me have the same one? I’m trying to change my perspective. I’m trying to appreciate the quality and benefits to the branded items, rather than just the brand. For instance, I’m trying to recognize the quality, contour and smoothness of the BMW, rather than solely noting the superior brand. I’m trying to fight becoming victim to the marketing gods. And not being the stereotypical consumer that the corporate giant is targeting. I’m trying to not let labels define who I am or who I want to be. I’m trying to not hide behind a label. That being said, don’t expect me to do anything rash…I’m not going to throw away my Coach bags or anything 🙂