Why We Don’t Do Black Friday
Happy Holidays, adventure seekers! As the hustle and bustle of the season approaches, there's a growing movement among those of us in the outdoor industry to reconsider the Black Friday chaos that has become synonymous with the post-Thanksgiving tradition. At Crooked Trail Adventures, we've decided to join our pals at REI, by embracing the outdoors with the #OptOutside movement.
The struggle is real
Black Friday has evolved into a symbol of consumerism, encouraging individuals to indulge in shopping sprees driven by discounts and deals. However, the consequences of this mindless consumption are far-reaching. The pursuit of material possessions often leads to a never-ending cycle, where the joy of a new purchase is short-lived, replaced by a desire for the next big thing. At Crooked Trail Adventures, we believe that there's more to life than accumulating possessions – it's about creating meaningful experiences and connections. Some retailers, such as Patagonia, have joined in the movement by encouraging time outside, asking customers to repair, rather than repurchase items, and even donating all profits from Black Friday sales to charity.
James Clear, a renowned author and productivity expert, has shed light on the Diderot Effect – the idea that obtaining a new possession can lead to a spiral of consumption as we strive to maintain a sense of harmony among our belongings. This perpetual cycle of acquiring more can distract us from what truly matters. By opting outside on Black Friday, we aim to break free from the clutches of the Diderot Effect, recognizing that our well-being is not defined by the things we own but by the experiences we accumulate and the connections we forge.
Not every adventure needs to be an epic- spending time together is reason enough to get out
Stepping outside and immersing ourselves in the natural world provides a refreshing contrast to the chaos of consumerism. Time outdoors has a remarkable ability to ground us, allowing us to connect with our surroundings and cultivate mindfulness. Whether it's a hike through the woods, a stroll along a scenic trail, or simply sitting in quiet contemplation, these outdoor experiences contribute to our overall well-being. By choosing to #OptOutside on Black Friday, we are making a conscious decision to invest our time and energy in activities that promote personal growth and connection.
Benefits of Mindful Outdoor Activities:
Stress Reduction: Spending time outside has been shown to lower cortisol levels and reduce stress. This break from the hustle and bustle of shopping malls can provide a much-needed mental reset.
Improved Creativity: Natural landscapes have a way of inspiring creativity. Whether you're an artist, writer, or simply someone seeking new perspectives, the great outdoors can stimulate fresh ideas and perspectives.
Enhanced Relationships: Opting outside on Black Friday allows for shared experiences with loved ones. Building memories together in nature fosters stronger bonds and creates a lasting sense of connection.
Do what you can, where you are
At Crooked Trail Adventures, we invite you to join us in rejecting the mindless consumerism that often accompanies Black Friday. Check us out on Instagram and share your outside adventures with us this Friday. Together, let's build on a new tradition that celebrates the richness of life beyond the confines of the shopping cart.
