Influence and Persuasion: Why You Buy What You Buy [ 1:46 ] Play Now | Play in Popup | Download (1341)In a time of economic uncertainty, people tend to tighten their purse strings, only purchasing what’s needed. What’s great about that is most people in our society don’t buy what they need, they buy what they want. Don’t believe me? That’s fine. May I ask you a question?
How many people do you know who drive expensive, luxurious SUVs such as the Cadillac Escalade ($50,000)? I humbly submit to you that they didn’t “need” that expensive of an automobile, they wanted it. They wanted the feelings of luxury, power, accomplishment, and uniqueness that come from driving such a wonderfully made vehicle. However, I also submit to you that they give themselves the permission to feel that way after buying that automobile, when in actuality they could’ve decided to feel those emotions without the price tag.
What that means is, we have been conditioned by advertisers to believe that in order to feel a certain way, we have to buy their clients’ clothes, cars, and jewelry. Is there anything wrong with that? You’ll have to answer that question. I simply wanted to shed some light on the fact that you can feel anyway you want, when you want, and without drugs. lol
Am I suggesting that you stop buying what you want, and only buy what you need? Absolutely not! However, I am advising you to decide to feel good now, whether you have what you want or not. It’s your choice. Isn’t it?
With your success in mind,
Ron
Can they decide to feel safe rather than actually being safe when the get T-Boned by a truck?
I don’t buy your story because you are not giving any value to actual valid benefits such as safety and comfort.
Would you rather imagine a red ferrari with a beautiful V8 singing – or be driving one?
James
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Hi. I am a long time reader. I wanted to say that I like your blog and the layout.
Peter Quinn
Ron-
Interesting post. You are exactly right about being conditioned not only by advetisers, but much of the mass media about wants vs. needs.
Our society teaches us from a young age that material goods will bring us the feelings we desire. It’s how our economy has worked for so long. Sure you can have a safe, reliable car OR for just a few dollars more you can have the luxury car that’s safe and reliable but also will make you look like a “real man.”
I could go on about this for pages– but it comes down to understanding that our feelings are a result of what is inside of us… not outside.
Warmly,
Felicia
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James, apparently I didn’t do an adequate job communicating my point in the post. The main point of the post is that we can decide to feel the emotions of safety and comfort on our own and go out choose the vehicle that meets our criteria of fulfillment.
Thanks for your comment!
Warmly,
Ron
Thanks, Peter! Glad you visited my blog. Perhaps, I’ll have you on my radio show in 2009 to discuss negotiations.