“For every trend, there’s a countertrend worth considering,” writes Robyn Waters, author of The Trendmaster’s Guide.
This is true. We like hearing this, because we immediately think of trends we don’t like, and countertrends that we do like. We enjoy the notion of rebelling against the old in favor of the new.
We don’t like the trend of pollution, so we support the countertrend of green living. Or, we don’t like the trend of corporate advertising, so we support the countertrend of social media engagement. Or, we don’t like the trend of rampant consumerism, so we support the countertrend of simplicity and minimalism.
In those situations, we’re happy to point out the importance of giving serious, open-minded consideration to countertrends.
It’s easy to preach the countertrend gospel when we’re in favor of change. But what happens when we like where things are going already? If we agree with a trend, are we willing to give serious, open-minded consideration to its countertrend?
4 Comments on ““For Every Trend…””
says:
Wow this was a thought provoking pice of writing Jeffery, I did not relise how thought provoking untell i started writing this coment. Thanks for the post.
While it is important to have an open mind it is equality important to act in ways that truly reflect your core values and beliefs. If you are living green just because it is a trend then your actions aren't real, you are nothing more then a cultural parrot. We should always be open to listen to others rational arguments and make up or minds for our selves. If something is a trend that just means everyone else is doing it nt that it is right or wrong. Lets leve the trends to to the marketers and agree to listen to each other and make informed discussion rather then just going with the heard.
says:
I think that the trend and counter trend are and always will be fighting for their piece of the pie. Maybe when they're at 50-50 is when balance occurs.
says:
My 16 year old has been engaged in a countertrend for going on 5 years. He refuses to be a walking billboard for clothing manufacturers. If it has a logo, name, or any other branding, he will not wear it. His rationale is why should I pay to advertise for them? It can be frustrating as a parent because it is extremely difficult to find clothing that isn't branded. Have you ever tried it?
says:
Agreed! It's hard sometimes to listen to rational arguments from “the other side” when we're used to something, though. I know it takes a conscious effort on my part.