In the digital age, privacy is a priority. We have legitimate concerns about our privacy online, the security and privacy of our financial records and accounts, and how much Big Brother knows about us. There are precautions we can take on these issues, and most of us try to be diligent.
A privacy safeguard that many people never think about is more obvious, and much more public: the choices we make when we buy things. Our purchases tell people so much about us, if we aren’t careful.
An extreme example would be the assault and robbery of a famous reality television star in her Paris hotel room that occurred not too long ago. For years, she’d tweeted and posted photos of her glamorous lifestyle and off-the-charts jewelry. It was saddening, and but not surprising when professional thieves ambushed her, took her jewelry and other valuables, and left her tied up in the bathtub. (Sad, because I never want anyone to suffer, but not a surprise because, well, it just wasn’t.)
You have the same options with your purchases and what you show, or don’t show, to the public. If you show nothing, people know nothing. They can speculate that you were raised well by the vocabulary use and the manners you exhibit. They can imagine that you have good taste as they size up a classic, quality wardrobe that changes little over time. But they will, in the end, probably have little real idea about the money you do or do not have just bey looking at you.
Good. This is a real advantage, not just for those of you trying to avoid the attention of criminals: people will most likely judge you for who you are, not what you have. Merit and sincerity will trump material possessions and ‘status’, whatever that is. People will be more curious about the book you’re reading rather than the label you’re wearing. Conversations will center around current events and ideas, rather than gossip and shopping.
Friends of mine who’ve ditched the latest fashions and sold the expensive sports cars have commented on the slow, subtle, but very rewarding shift in their lives: they attract less immediate attention from the public, but more enduring relationships from fewer, more interesting people. They’ve also learned no small amount about themselves.
As one of the commented recently, tongue firmly planted in cheek, “Being private can be so revealing.”
Indeed.
- BGT
Amen, brother.
Hi Byron –
This reminds me of a post from my blog a while back in which I cautioned Surprise Millionaires to live a low profile life and to guard their privacy.
https://thesurprisemillionaires.com/2015/05/21/a-sobering-post/
Unfortunately, the reasoning for the post was that I had recently found stories of Surprise Millionaires who had met with foul play. Your advice as always is timely and right on target.
Hi Keith, I remember that conversation we had. The topic is on my mind frequently. Thank you for the link. – BGT
We raised our son to keep family business family. I.E. not to discuss antiques, silver or art outside of the house and certainly not with strangers. We don’t talk about money or investments with outsiders either. It’s just not done.
Excellent advice, Jane. Thank you. – BGT
Hi Byron,
Speaking of sports cars, what are your thoughts on appropriate vehicles?
Best,
Brock
Hi Brock. I favor older models that are purchased inexpensively and restored, maintained, and enjoyed over time. And long after financial independence is secure. Buying a new sports car is an easy and obvious way to blow a hole in the budget.
Old Mercedes, BMWs, Fiats and Triumphs are always great projects to keep in good condition and hand off to the next generation. There may be other readers who have more experience (and experiences) to share. Thank you, sir. – BGT
Best post yet, Mr Tully. No facebook, instagram or smart phones for me. Yes, I use the old flip phones. Unless you’re praying to God, please do not send instant messages, people.
Ha! Great one, Lauren. And thanks. – BGT