Personal branding and the art of establishing a unique style for one’s self is something that I’ve come to value in the last couple of years. As I continue to engage in conversation with all kinds of people and build connections inside and outside of the Myers Park community, I’ve learned just how important it can be to show an image that represents who you are, and one that allows others to remember you. While for some people it might be a nickname, t-shirt, or necklace, I’ve always considered my love for watches to be a part of my personal identity.
Whether that be my Citizen Promaster Diver or my Tissot T-Classic Gentlemen, there’s something about the sheer elegance and unique design that nonchalantly bounces off the bezel of these distinctive timepieces.
Over the years, my fondness for watches and the art of buying and reselling them has garnered me compliments from a variety of individuals. More specifically, sporting these watches, whether that be in formal or informal environments, has given me the opportunity to appear sophisticated, regardless of the social situation. Beyond the apparent sophistication that accompanies my watches, my growing collection has led me to social media groups and online communities with people who share the exact same passion for my hobby. As I continue to learn more about the art of collecting watches and the different types of people involved in the hobby, I’m able to find myself in various interest groups, especially those concerning the economy and investing, another passion of mine.
While many might consider watches to be the opposite of a reasonable investment, I’ve been able to learn about the luxury watch market and the extent to which investors are able to earn money buying and selling their watches. Learning more about the individuals involved in these online interest groups, I found it enrapturing that what once started out as a hobby and interesting thing to research online ultimately became a career or investment opportunity for these people.
Regardless of investing or the act of owning a watch, I realized how important it is to build personal character through the development of one’s image. In other words, personal branding has allowed me to establish a side of myself that I feel confident and passionate about and look forward to sharing with others. As I continue to share this hobby with others, I’ve managed to engage in conversations regarding interests and personal hobbies, allowing me to further understand others and what they’re passionate about.
My love for watches has also led me in the direction of learning more about clothing and other fashionable accessories. More specifically, I’ve managed to discover a new passion for specific t-shirt designs, including those that offer a retro appeal.
Thinking in the direction of my past, I’ve realized just how effective it was to interact and learn about others, as my awareness of those around me ultimately inspired me to take action on various principles in my life, including my passion for watches.
Without practicing things like this and exiting my comfort zone through interacting with people, I would have never discovered the various things, including watches, that allow me to showcase my identity. Ultimately, with both watches and other fashion-based interests of mine, I’ve been able to expand my desired self image and my understanding of others through connecting with like-minded individuals. While every individual has a personal image that is unique to them, my interests have led me to realize just how much I have in common with others.