Hedonic Treadmill

[Morgan]

Anyone else wrestling with the hedonic treadmill problem?

I browse and buy, I thrill to the arrival of packages in the mail, I strut confidently in my latest suit or shoes or jacket, and then ... listlessness or indifference toward the article of clothing, accompanied by a growing realization that maybe these cordovan longwings weren't exactly what I needed to complete my wardrobe. That maybe what I really need is a new navy suit - then I'll have everything I need! And the cycle continues.

I know it's chronic condition for most folks on this site, and it's kind of a running joke too. Lately, though, I've been feeling especially frustrated by it. I was thinking the other day about some of my most enjoyable experiences, and none of them involved shopping for or wearing clothes. So I went and spent a bunch of money I had earmarked for clothing on a plane ticket to the other coast, to catch up with old friends and see my family and visit my grandma, who's getting pretty frail.

Of course, I'll be in NYC so I may have to visit Paul Stuart and the other landmarks on Mad Ave, or Blue in Green in Soho, or maybe check out what J.Crew did with that new mens' store down in Tribeca ...

 

[Crooow]

Our treadmill downstairs in the gym has recently decided to stop working; I'm not sure if it's hedonic, or if maybe there is just a short in the wires.

Thankfully, the elliptical is still in fine form.

 

[bluemagic]

I used to feel that way. Now that I know exactly what I like, and focus more on how an item is to be worn than on the item itself, I find that I still enjoy items after I've had them for quite a while.

 

[voxsartoria]

Originally Posted by bluemagic

I used to feel that way. Now that I know exactly what I like, and focus more on how an item is to be worn than on the item itself, I find that I still enjoy items after I've had them for quite a while.

Foo, is that you?


- B

 

[bluemagic]

Mafoofan's blog is how I found this forum.

 

[babygreenspots]

I feel similarly about booze.

 

[yfyf]

Originally Posted by babygreenspots

I feel similarly about booze.

The treadmill slows down, I wouldn't fret too much about it. I can already feel it slowing down for me as I get more jaded. My affection for the various bits and pieces I have picked up along the way has not diminished, just my desire for new shiny things. it's a new world economy folks! btw, I suggest you call it "item lust".