'Twas the Week...

So here it is a week before Christmas, and it looks like the economy grinch stole Christmas. Sales are way down, traffic is way down, shoppers also seem to be way down.

But this isn’t to lament the obvious. Today I received a report from our JWT headquarters in New York, from Ann Mack, Director of Trend Spotting. The report, “Rethinking Aspirations”, explores how people have started to re-examine their lifestyles in light of the changing economy in the coming year.

For those of us old enough to remember the Conspicuous Consumption of the 80’s, you may spot the pattern. Following the 80’s was a rebound period of “meaningful pursuit”, which opened the door to “the purpose-driven life” for Boomers. Well, it’s back, by necessity. Hopefully we can close the door to the era of greed, and reset our aspirations to the more mundane, “real” things like connecting with others, getting more meaning out of “the little things” instead of “getting more”.

Another biggie this study highlights: a gravitational pull to what’s safe and secure, in their jobs and lifestyle. Living more simply. Living leaner. Gaining control.
If you are stewarding your brand’s voice, what are you doing to address these changing values? I’d love to hear.

If you want a copy of the study, let us know at info@jwtboom.com.

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Jim Hallock - Executive Creative Director
JWT Boom - info@jwtboom.com