Acquired Taste

Happy Friday! Can you believe that we are three weeks away from 2023? Time is flying by, but we are all still here. That in itself is something to appreciate. I have a diverse group of friends and acquaintances, and I have recently had more exposure to co-workers, peers, strangers, etc. I noticed several things; some people are ‘easy peasy,’ they like whatever and are flexible. Then you have others that have an acquired taste; they partake in their preferred established networks, etc. The thing is, I love both perspectives; that is the beauty of diversity. According to the Cambridge Dictionary, an acquired taste is something that you [may] dislike at first but start to like after you have tried it a few times. This preference can range from traveling, people, food, friendships, and more.

Maybe being oneself is always an acquired taste.

-- Patricia Hampl

I have been referred to as someone that may be an acquired taste because of my energy level, high pitch, louder than a “normal” voice, or my joy. Initially, I was perplexed when this comment was made, but it just meant I was different from what someone may or may not be used to. I share this because we can all seem different depending on whom we expose ourselves to. This is when people should learn more about others who act, think, and operate differently than themselves. Doing so allows you to challenge your current belief systems, preferences, and actions.

We are humans, but we are brilliant animals that have survived based on our ability to evolve and adapt. Every time I interact with others, I check for understanding and clarity and seek a better opportunity to adopt an ideal or practice to which I may not have been exposed too. The beautiful thing is that we can change if that is our desire. There is something called The Rule of Acquired Taste; Author Justin Bariso suggests that this rule is based on principles of emotional intelligence, the ability to identify, understand, and manage emotions.

In a nutshell, what we are exposed to can prompt a desire or want for certain things. Think about your last several purchases. Is it because you like an item or because you see it frequently? To add the cherry on top, marketers may add flashing lights, cute animals, and not to mention a popular song. This week’s challenge is to reflect, reprogram and prepare yourself for the life you want in the upcoming new year so your preferences or, as some may say, your acquired taste are aligned with your values.

Always do the things you fear the most. Courage is an acquired taste, like caviar.

-- Erica Jong

I suggest doing the following:

·????????Plan a vision board party – It is the perfect time of year to gather friends and family to discuss the future. You may be surprised who may inspire you!

·????????Get uncomfortable – Exposing yourself to different foods, social settings, and people allows you to see what you do or do not like.

·????????Connect and disconnect – Go on your social media and connect with people that may interest you. For example, if you want to be in a particular profession, connect with people and ask questions to gather more information. Next, purge your phone numbers, friends list, and connections that no longer serve you. It is okay to move forward with or without an explanation.

·????????Get an accountability partner – We all need people to push us out of our comfort zone; I am known to be a person that seeks thrill, adventure, and newness. We also need people to reel us in so we have balance. Show someone your vision board, talk to them about your top goals, and discuss ways to hold one another accountable.

No matter what you do in life, you will never be able to satisfy everyone. Do not seek anything unrealistic. Ultimately, you are responsible for your actions and behaviors. We are all on borrowed time; live your life, love others and primarily, be happy!

Cheers,

Your acquired taste, friend……. Neffie