SHINY, SLEEK, AND ADDICTIVE The Science of Gadget Obsession
There’s something thrilling about unboxing a new gadget. The shimmer of the screen, the sleekness of the design, the moment you first power it on … it’s a rush. Behind this excitement, many psychological triggers pull us toward the upgrade cycle. The Pull of Novelty We’re hardwired to chase newness. Psychologists call it neophilia, an attraction
to fresh experiences. Gadgets deliver that hit of novelty: sharper cameras, faster processors, and cutting-edge features that feel like a leap forward. These upgrades don’t just make life easier; they signal progress and feed our innate desire for self-improvement. Studies show people are far more likely to upgrade if the new version feels substantially different from the last. Marketing and Social Influence Of course, the tech industry feeds on this craving. Marketing campaigns frame every release as revolutionary. They want us to feel left behind if we don’t buy the latest model. Social media piles on the pressure, with influencers and peers flaunting the latest devices. Then there’s FOMO (fear of missing out) that makes sticking with last year’s model feel worse; we’re no longer part of the in-crowd. Personality and Identity Not everyone upgrades for the same reasons. Some of us are natural thrill-seekers who love
being first in line, even if it means dealing with buggy operating systems. Others see technology as an extension of identity: Owning the newest gadget becomes a badge of honor for the forward-thinking and tech-savvy. For these buyers, the purchase is less about functionality and more about aligning with innovation. Convenience Over Mastery Sometimes, buying is easier than learning. Mastering the quirks of an older device can feel like a chore, while a newer model promises smoother, more intuitive use. Many people convince themselves that an upgrade isn’t an indulgence but a convenience. The Hidden Cost Frequent upgrades carry consequences. Perfectly functional devices often end up in drawers or landfills, adding to the growing mountains of e-waste. Before chasing the next shiny release, it’s worth asking: Do we really need it, or are we chasing novelty, status, and validation at a hidden cost?
As 2025 ends, I want to take a moment to thank you, our clients, for being part of our community. We recognize that it is a privilege to be your trusted advisor, helping you navigate the most challenging conversations surrounding family and legacy. Through the years, I am reminded that you are the reason we do what we do. When I set out to become a lawyer, I hoped to help families avoid the pain and loss that my family experienced due to poor legal advice leading up to my granddad’s passing. I have been passionate about helping families create and preserve a legacy of freedom, fulfillment, and love. Looking back on my nearly two decades of this work, I am proud of what our community has become. Your trust in my team and me has fortified our commitment to you and other families in need of legal guidance. Looking forward to 2026, I am excited to discover what is possible for each of you and for the families we have yet to meet. We look forward to celebrating the coming joys with you, whether it’s your family growing, moving to a new home or community, or pursuing new passions, and also mourning losses you may experience. Whatever your new year looks like, we hope you and your family have the peace of mind you deserve. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for being part of the Field Law Family. A SPECIAL THANK YOU
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