The other day I was reading about the history of tanning.
Turns out tanning has a backstory more up and down than a yo-yo.
Having a deep, mahogany tan used to be a sign of low social status. So wealthy folk would avoid the sun to keep their skin pale.
In the mid-20th century, this
shifted.
For a few reasons:
Outdoor sports became popular. Travel and tourism was on the rise. And Hollywood movies started to be filmed outdoors.
So a tan showed a healthy lifestyle. A way to flaunt that you’d been on a swanky holiday. And a sign of
celebrity, beauty and popularity.
More recently, there’s been another shift.
People avoid the sun for health reasons, but still want a glimmering, golden
glow. Hence the rise of tanning mousses, foams, creams and gels.
And sure as the sun rises in the East and sets in the West, there’ll be another tanning philosophy hot on its sun-baked heels.
So why do I bring this up?
Well, it seems to me that much of how we live our lives comes down to our thinking about how other people view our actions.
And if there’s an action you want to take but you’re worried about what other people think, tanning is a great example to bear in mind.
Because the history of tanning shows that attitudes and perceptions are always shifting.
What’s uncool today could be cool tomorrow.
What’s unpopular today could be popular tomorrow.
What’s misunderstood today could be understood tomorrow.
And so on.
And worrying what other people think when “what other people think” is fluid and changeable is a wild goose chase if ever there was one.
Especially if your next step isn’t a flight of fancy but something you’re seriously considering.
Because chances are a few other people will also be seriously considering the same thing.
And sure as night follows day, some of these people will take that step.
Then a few more will.
And a few more after them.
Before you know it, the thing you were worried about because it was seen as unusual could be completely standard.
And if you did take that step, you’ll be one of the people leading the way, paving the way for the others.
Which, in my book, is a pretty cool place to be.
That’s all for today.
Have a great weekend.
- Tom
p.s. is there a project you’re
considering? Would you like some help with your next steps?
If so, let’s have a complimentary call to discuss how I could support you and explore whether coaching
might be a good option for you.
Here’s the link to book a call:
https://calendly.com/followingfulfilment
Even if this is our only call, I know you’ll come away with new ideas and a renewed sense of
clarity.