New fads, same flavor, or something else

Consumerism thrives on innovation, so it’s little surprise the lengths people go to dish out another rendition of what’s worked before.

Which means that for everything, from the new flavor of coke (or ice cream) to the next flick, to the latest phone, media platform, or vogue look, we’re presented with a choice.

Do we embrace it, or do we ignore it?

Do we mindlessly consume the next wave of things? Or do we stick to what’s well worn.

Worth pointing out: you can also choose to search for something else entirely. Not the newest thing, but something novel (to you) nonetheless.

Choosing from the bestseller list (or seasonal catalog) is a choice. As is not choosing. Discovering something fresh—taking a risk on something lesser known—is another.

It seems to me that opting for the alternative option is a better strategy if you don't want to be ignored.

The new Airpods, for example, are the latest craze, but they don't make a statement any more than not wearing headphones. Grados are an arguably better alternative, and despite the stares you’ll inevitably get (and conversations you might start), you’ll experience music in a truly one of a kind way.

Of course this applies to everything you buy, put on, or consume (in the most figurative sense), as well as where you shop. 

Traversing between the most talked about and the least is a tolerance worth embracing, at least a little.