Gear Acquisition Syndrome

[@MLELELELEL]

These older videos of yours are on a different level. It makes us get more into your thoughts and ideas, experiences. It's like seeing another facet of Frank James, by watching these vids. And the songs after every vid, I love them! I wish you could add your other songs on the newer vids so we get to listen to all of them! Your 'unpopular belief/s' give me new perspectives, so thank you!

[@saraerzsebet]

Before I make a purchase, my main question to myself is, "Does this improve my quality of life?" If the answer is truly yes, I happily buy it. Sounds simple enough, but I think some deep reflection is required for each of us as unique individuals because there is so much toxic mental pollution from our culture dictating what a "life of quality" is. Quality of life to me means peace of mind, simplicity, health, sensuality, and personal growth. My lifestyle would be annoying to someone else, but to me it's beautiful and luxurious. I don't own much furniture, but I spend a lot of money on healthy food and natural body products. I just bought some expensive, fancy, natural, vegan incense and I'm sure a different person would say that's a waste, but I feel great about it because it aligns with my values and improves my quality of life. "If this purchase is an investment in you in some way, that you are going to be able to use this thing to get more experiential joy, then it's a good thing." I agree! As a reflection of our pure desires, consumption can be an almost creative expression. Choices made in love (love of ourselves, art, music, people...) beget environments saturated in peace and joy. Decisions made for other reasons (displaying status, boosting self-esteem, quelling depression...) beget dissatisfaction, addiction, and destruction. So I say, if that bass improves your quality of life, embrace it, love it, and be grateful for it! I rarely comment on YT, but your channel is different. Thanks for reading, FJ!

[@francesgrovear]

Honestly the song at the end gives life. I can relate to this. I wanted to start oil painting so I bought oil paints and everything it takes to get started. It was expensive, but in the end I've become a better artist because of it. I think you're walking the fine line between materialism and idealism. Thanks for another cool and informative video Frank.

[@femaleperson2662]

I too have GAS and yes was a forum inhabitant (now archived) where some ridiculously intense drama went down. People fell in love, hated with extreme prejudice, hearts were opened and broken and death threats abounded on a daily basis. I never met anyone from the forum (others did) and intense anonymity was maintained to preserve sanity and safety. I don't think I will ever forget those posters. Absurdly terrible good times.

[@batjon1963]

I think introverts like us do, as you suggest, get more out of purchasing things that give us joy rather than "experiences" like travel. And I agree completely that there is some genuine joy in acquiring things that make us happy, though this is an unpopular notion. My weakness used to be books, but these days it's DVDs - I have thousands of them. And they make me happy. Books and DVDs, favored possessions of we hermits. You're spoiling us with VEDA - however will I start my day come September? Finally, as so many others have commented, your songs at the end are awesome. Oh, and one more thing - what a lovely group of fans you have. This is such a kind, intelligent, loving group of people who gather here to watch and comment. That says a lot about you, Frank; you attract the best.

[@batjon1963]

I just realized my last comment is, in part, self-congratulatory, which was unintentional. But I'm going to gather up enough self-esteem at this moment to allow me to compliment myself along with all the others, :)

[@crabbygirluc9926]

OMG...do you have gas? Why is that so INSANELY funny coming out of your mouth!!??

[@batuhanocbe549]

It's the feeling of completion that we seek to satisfy our perfectionist inner senses. Every hobby is kind of dangerous for people like us. I'm into Bushcrafting and Camping these days. Even though i had enough gear for decent trips, i constantly look for stuff to improve in my gear and feel that my life will be complete with that new item.

[@c.k.g.]

That was a beautiful trip down memory lane

[@imani1193]

When I was 13 or 14, I had a Xanga account. I'd put up all these good poems on it that even put my adult self to shame now. But since my old computer got left behind, I lost all that breathtaking content, and I never spoke to any of my Xanga friends again, since all the old accounts got archived and such. They gave me this file that supposedly had all my old posts in it, but I couldn't open it. Hahaha

[@Sam-bs8by]

Im I use to have a Xanga that I would write poetry on. I can’t remember my username, email or pswrd that I used, but I always wanted to go back and see what my teenage self felt at the moment ... although it’s probably better that I have no way of knowing lol 😅

[@sevnhana2898]

LOL! My boyfriend definitely suffers from G.A.S. Our apartment is filled with guitars, pedals, camera equipment and Cd's. I personally like to buy workout clothes to try to get myself to the gym. It works for about a week. I used to love going onto forums and nerding out with other like minded people too. I used to look forward to coming home from school everyday to jump on the computer and talk with these friends. Those forums saved me from feeling like an outsider, and I will always remember those connections.

[@BGomez-tk7lu]

I collect boxes. If I buy a box of cookies or some gadget and I like the design of the box, I normally keep it heheh They usually remain untouched in the back of a wardobe or under my bed for years, but when I find something I can store in them...oh man that's the best thing. Changing topics, I find the forum experience very interesting. You see, some day, maybe humans from the future will study those forgotten forums to understand us and our interactions. I also find very interesting the fact that, in a sense, you can get virtually anything that you 'need' from the internet, you can have a digital life, a virtual reality life. Some may say that's sad, but I'd say it's more like bittersweet. We are getting closer and closer to a world wherein all human interaction will be possible or necessary through virtual/tech mediums. That's scary but really exciting at the same time, thus bittersweet :) BTW those outros sound good

[@ashleynovotna1075]

So I am not the only one? My eyes litterally welled with tears when I started reading this.

[@im_toro]

the way this video was edited absolutely kills me. takes off jacket. talks for a few seconds. immediately puts jacket back on

[@FrankJames]

lol i was indecisive

[@karo.0lart]

😳Guadalupe? He he Your pronunciation is way too adorable Frank James! Also, I was forced to google the place. For a second there, I thought you were trying to say Guadalajara 🤣🤣🤣

[@StephanieDouglassMusic]

I was an active member on DeviantArt. Ohhh I loved that site. I even had a "daily Deviation" once. Then college happened and I just didn't have the mental space to keep drawing. Stupid education. As a musician, I relate to this. I see it as investing in your experiences when you buy things for your hobby. I have a lot of things on my list, like a C trumpet, a nicer ukulele, and probably a freaking camera for all the videos I make. (I sit my phone on a phone stand on a tripod, plug the mic in and use a capo to keep the mic attached to the tripod. It's too precarious.) I still have student loans to pay off so I alternate by the month. One month I spend money on a thing or experience, and the next I put money toward a big student loan. I don't want to start grad school until the first set of loans is gone.

[@batjon1963]

I LOVE DeviantArt! Some of my favorite computer wallpapers have been culled from there.

[@ambylam]

as a child i used to be obsessed with my dad’s DBL catalogues cuz they were these huge phonebook size things with every electronic item you could think of. before i ever played video games i’d just spend hours looking at all of the different accessories

[@lisafox1001]

Your channel is so unique and real. Thank you for it!

[@FrankJames]

thanks, Lisa, I appreciate it

[@sarahlarsen3637]

Good morning, FJ! You make a great point in saying that physical objects can produce memorable experiences. I don't think it is materialistic to enjoy what you've been blessed with. I think materialism is when you're using stuff to try and fill a void, kind of like what you talked about in your video on addictions. The key is to build a healthy mindset and realistic expectations for what your purchases will actually accomplish.

[@sunshinelee2608]

I did a lot of travelling and have been to almost 50 counties. During that time I owned next to no personal possessions. Six pairs of socks, six pairs of underware... everything I had could fit in a small backpack! I was living in remote places in the third world and the things we ‘westerners’ would get excited by would be locating a jar of peanut butter, flushing toilets and the very rare chance to wear clean clothes. Now that I am back in North America .. I am surrounded by different things so my wants are different too! I had some ‘experiences’ travelling that were a total waste of money! And I bought material goods that turned out to be unsatisfactory as well or they were stolen. It’s all about balance I think! The thing travelling did for me was teach me about being more accepting of others, compassionate and gratitude are are lessons I brought back with me and became apart of who I am. I’m orginally from a rural coal mining town. And needed to get out in the world and I’m happy I did! However... because I spent so many years abroad I came home to North America with no roots! My family mostly is deceased and my siblings are married with kids and we lost connection. It comes back to balance I guess! Everyone talks about them wishing to grab a bag and go travel the world! And I did that. But you come home to ...no home! Because the world moves on without you. However.... that brings me comfort. It’s nice not to matter. Because then you are free. I am a believer of people coming into your life for a ‘reason’ or a ‘season’. A ‘lesson’ or a ‘blessing’ if you will.. I’m an INFJ *surprise* :D. I love your videos Frank! I start my day with your daily video and breakfast at my kitchen table. Thankyou for your content. I love your insights, and humour! Your ‘commercials’ make me laugh everyday! Sincerely, thankyou for making such cool content.

[@melbeth79]

Sunshine Lee Well said about possessions, travel, coming home and the balance.

[@ripmomcovid4678]

I understand engulfment fears: at work I got to the point that I liked to set up a team and then pull back and let them run with it. It felt good not to be the one who carried it all. But I realized that I am a nesting bird, setting up a little nest for myself wherever I go. (Cancerian.) :) You may find yourself a new home and begin to enjoy new "family." You may mean something for the people around you. :) All the best to you!

[@johnearnshaw5036]

Haha, brilliant. I was reminded of Loudon Wainright's "Red Guitar" song

[@StephanieJeanne]

Ha! Gear acquisition syndrome! Never known a guy who didn't have it. And nothing wrong with buying yourself something once in a while if it gives you pleasure. I agree with that. Was a little sad at the end when you talked about your nostalgia for that music forum. I just watched a video of some songs from my youth and got a little nostalgic. 😥🙂 I liked your little ditty at the end of this video.👍👏

[@YeshuaEllisLamb]

Power tools and outdoor gear. It's great to look at it. But finding the time and energy is the real cost.

[@thatASMRchick]

You need to F.A.R.T. - Feel Amazing Receiving Telecaster. hehehehehe. You shouldn't have told me my comments aren't stupid. Also, I'm the same. When I'm super depressed, I will start buying really dumb things for "Christmas presents" for myself in like August or something. I think I've talked about this before but it's just that whole waiting for something nice, having something to look forward to. Lately, I've been collecting hamster plush dolls? (I'm 31 now, what is going on?) But they make me happy. I collect so many things I look like I'm living in a weird dragon cave. However, I don't consider myself hoarding because I buy shelves and have them all organized in a pleasant way, not just thrown into the room like garbage. I gots the shelving. I gots the cabinets. I gots the dragons, the flying foxes, the Maleficent and Beetlejuice dolls. But yeah it never satiates that void. Eventually, you want more. People say material things can't buy you happiness, but I get pretty happy if I see a cute, furry hammy plush staring at me or my cute/scary dragons shooting fire at me. Just like to surround myself in things that if I stare at them they make me feel something, anything.

[@mariabehar3640]

Girl, you had me at Beetlejuice. Best movie ever. We best friends now. 🤓

[@smeeh6644]

Lol why is taboo humour so funny to me😂😂😂 especially when you ever-appropriate infjs come out with something like that.

[@FrankJames]

well i learned my lesson, never tell people their comments are not stupid xD at least you have shelves to make it plausible that you are not a hoarder, ha ha. my stuff is not organized at all. i totally agree with you that it's fun to have stuff to look forward to. do you pine after stuff for days or weeks or months? sometimes it is fun to just look through a website at all the stuff i *could* get

[@thatASMRchick]

oh yes, I love searching for things I want or even want to gift people. I love even buying gifts for other people. :)

[@AK-0111]

me too! ...and it all goes down the drain when they are not as jubilant after receiving the gift... ugghhh...

[@retrogradepink]

oh, GAS! i didn't know it had a name. it's definitely something i have had as long as i can remember. same for most people, probably, living in a consumerist society. my suspicion is that for those with inferior Se it's a way to have an experience without actually having one. searching for, making decisions about, and then acquiring an object feels like you're really doing something, and once you have it in your hands you feel accomplished. but it's all in your mind. the object seems like a magic key that will unlock all this possibility, everything this object stands for can be yours. the object is fantasy made manifest. but the object is hollow. you give it meaning. it is possible to make music on a sub-par instrument. it is possible to make a movie on an iphone. i always envy people who are so passionate about what they're doing/making that they don't care that much about the objects they're using. to them, objects are just tools for a job, not magic keys. for people with GAS, though, there's a danger that you don't do anything once you acquire the object. having it feels like enough. like when i used to buy journals all the time, thinking they would force me to write. that never worked. i write on regular paper now, kept in a binder. it is unglamorous, because it's not about how nice the journal looks. it's about what's in it. anyway, thanks for another great video. i woke up early and it's so nice to be greeted by your infotainment content first thing. :-)

[@singinggreywolf]

Oh man, this is one of those aspects of myself that I hate to admit to, so I’m really relieved to hear you admitting to it lol. I feel like this is one of those aspects of being hyper self-conscious, because we think not only about the thing we want but how it will make us seem to others. And then time and time again we find that it doesn’t really have quite the imagined effect, and yet there is almost some kind of denial process because sure enough the next time the fantasy makes it hard to resist buying the next thing. My solution is often just not to go to the place where I would buy the stuff, but with the internet it makes it harder to resist. Hilarious commercial.

[@FrankJames]

yeah the place where i buy the stuff is at my fingertips xD

[@tiffaneereyes4398]

FJ! This vlog was so damn hilarious. I think I laughed more at that part where you said, ”I took a picture instead of a video” than when you were making gas jokes. I would totally go see you if you ever played at ACL btw ;)

[@Ebbakinebba]

I collect tiny beads and string them together to make jewelry. My uncle is obsessed with guitars and has been playing guitar on a professional level since time immemorial. I laughed when you took a picture of your hand by accident :)

[@telene2853]

My brother has seven guitars and counting. I’ve known for a while now that he needs help - it’s clearly getting out of hand. I just don’t know how to break it to him… that he suffers with… GAS. 😂😆😂 Funniest video to date, mate! I could do with one of those heat resistant wallets. I think the brand name is Self Discipline…

[@AK-0111]

i laughed so much throughout this video ...look forward to your videos man...like for eternity! lol..

[@ineffablewonder]

LOL! I love these outro jingles man. i was on some suspicious sites as a teenager. FTJ(facethejury.com)'s General Forum is where i spent most of my time though. and i actually made some legitimate friends that i still talk to 15 years later (whoa.) but there were lots of fake profiles, my underage n00dz ended up on some place called anon-ib(?), and now when you go to that site it's PRIVATE. the whole site is private! like, how i wasn't kidnapped in the early days of the Internet is beyond me...

[@mandaluvsfob]

I always want to go buy copic markers or a new drawing tablet, even though I still have a ton of other supplies and a perfectly good tablet. I envision that somehow my skills will improve or I'll be a "true" artist for owning cooler tools. Perhaps that's why some artists are the starving kind. (Just found your channel last week and I love it!)

[@FrankJames]

oh thanks!

[@yumisy111]

omg if that outro were made into a full song i’d totally listen to it 😁 and yeah i definitely turn to materialism just to have something to look forward to in all honesty :’)

[@FrankJames]

ha ha thanks maybe i'll make it into a full song xD

[@thousandfootdeepend1278]

I think my brother-in-law has GAS when it comes to buying/trading fire arms and holsters and such. lol Watching him unboxing his gear can be hilarious. Also, I was catching up on Blimey Cow's latest videos late last night and it made me happy to see several of your comments (the tattoo one cracked me up so bad). I love finding out that my favorite KZbinrs watch each other's channels. :) P.S. I've started looking forward to your "commercial breaks." lol xD

[@FrankJames]

ha ha yeah i just started watching blimey cow recently, I like their stuff

[@thousandfootdeepend1278]

Frank James Cool. 🙂 I feel I should clarify that my brother is in law enforcement and not just a crazy gun fanatic. Lol ... And were from Texas. 😂

[@xlan13x]

That's too Se. Happens to me all the time. Buy stuff then justify that I needed it. lol

[@shannonlogue5585]

Lol Been there myself. My G.A.S. targets my home gym equipment. I just bought bumper plates for my barbell set up and 2 battle ropes in the living room even though I have a perfectly sufficient gym membership. :) I also have yet to the use the routes so far, but I got them for a great deal that I couldn't pass up. I keep eyeing a wall-mounted squat power rack, too. The fact that I'm a renter is the only thing keeping me from taking the plunge. Love the improv song at the end.

[@j.j.r.6075]

I get GAS, in accasion. Board games mainly. However, as of yet I have not had the funds to even be lured by the prospect of buying a new instrument. Part of me is dreading having the temptation there, but part of me is like "well, you can't take money with you in the end, may as well use it" :D Thanks for sharing, FJ ^^

[@TheRobbur]

Wish somebody would do this to one of my forums. I hope those dudes see this.

[@emmanxiety5850]

This was actually really interesting I love hearing about people’s pasts

[@tfranc347]

Ah! man remember those like sunburst les pauls in that magazine that were like $17,000 or whatever? god why is it so much fun to go onto a website and look at stuff you could get?

[@codeN_8]

Books. Art supplies. Thrift store art. Totes my jam.

[@ashleighbraun]

I loved your GAS song the most.

[@FrankJames]

oh good!

[@karlas6199]

Guadalupe? ha ha... Is that an actual place?... You should go; it sounds adventurous :P I'm all too familiar with that fantasy world in which we lose ourselves every so often. I find it immensely gratifying to skim through catalogs or to go window-shopping at the mall without necessarily having the slightest intention of actually buying anything. Imagining myself wearing that gold, open-back lace dress and those pointed-toe, rhinestone ankle-strap pumps or laying back on that parchment shantung, double-arm, tufted chaise lounge is sufficiently satisfying in itself; although sometimes temptation can be hard to resist and one can't help but succumb to it :) I generally prefer experiences over material possessions. It's not that I don't enjoy buying things for myself, but experiences, however, tend to leave a strong, permanent mark on me; they leave me feeling inspired and fulfilled and they allow me to build new bonds and/or to reinforce existing ones. I have a relentless craving to explore and to learn new things, and experiences provide me with the opportunity to do that. I'm not advocating for absolute restraint from giving in to our occasional compelling desire to buy things; I think it's healthy to treat ourselves with a new shiny toy every once in a while. All I'm saying is we should not underestimate the value that new experiences add to our lives as well as the benefits we can get by opening ourselves to them. ... If you end up buying that guitar, don't deprive your ever-so-lovely viewers of the chance to admire such a thing of beauty :)

[@honoluluwampum]

YES. I do it with everything, and I do nothing helpful with it. OMG plant catalogues. Game systems, sure. Guitars I CAN'T EVEN PLAY. (I'm so jealous, you have my favorite guitar already.) Paint, canvas, artist paper, a million materials for making jewelry, clothes, collage, sculpture, earth building. The worst right now is the novel I'm not writing. I need to create but I'm not actually doing it, so...but I do genuinely love the materials themselves. Maybe it helps generate temporarily enough hope to churn through the mediocrity of mundane life? Nothing wrong with beauty by itself. And I will miss Punk Planet for the rest of my boring years.

[@storytimewithyaz]

Awww FJ! I miss forums too! So many lovely friends from those days! I was a part of many, but literally none that are still active either. Memory lane is a fun place sometimes :) Also, I love traveling and more by myself so I can do what I wanna do, not what someone else had planned out for me. But I think it depends on what brings you joy! I love finding out about other cultures, so traveling brings me lots of pleasure, especially when I can immerse myself in it.

[@FrankJames]

it does sound like traveling alone could be very rewarding because you're completely in control of the schedule!

[@vanessalacombe3380]

I like this idea of you being in France. Even my girlfriend don't stop asking me 'when will you meet him? he is a double you" but sadly I have to say "probably never"...

[@laudemgloriae3]

I definitely have GAS for violin stuff and yes I was addicted to a forum in the early 2000s called PHATMASS which is still going. I like to walk down memory lane & see my old posts 😃 great times

[@londonj2911]

Seriously, I don't even know what I'm going to do when August is over. #DailyFJ

[@AK-0111]

Yeah we want the dose! everyday! xD

[@Silvery115]

I think it depends on the object you want to buy and ho much emotional attachment you'd have to it. In the case you explained (the guitar) I get it from your point of view! I own objects that to this day make me very happy and I am more than glad I spent money on them. Holidays and experiences though are always amazing investments in my opinion :D

[@LemonThyme1933]

I can relate. I found this one amusing, Frank. Reminded me of better days with my X husband, and our sons have this as well.

[@carissahill3414]

I love that old record static song. I got Se indulgence issues. I went to therapy for a year with a behavioral therapist to help me stop spending so much. After a year, I was like, "This is great and all but I came here to help me stop spending and we haven't even addressed that yet..." That was the last time I saw her. Sweet lady though. It was literally just two videos ago that I was watching John Beebe explain that Ne causes over indulgence in material goods and that when he went to a book store, he couldn't just buy one book but came home with a ton. Yeah .. Interestingly though when I go window shopping with my friends I often buy nothing. I hardly even look around much. I think its because I know I can't do what I usually do and stand in front of the oreo cookies forever tasting all the different flavors in my mind over and over and over again. When I am alone, I buy every flavor.

[@MrBenjjj6]

I remember that and studio-central.com! Many memories of cubase, windows XP and too many plugins causing it to crash. Now life has responsibilities ...

[@chloeh.6235]

"Treat yo'self," FJ! I've just called it all Retail Therapy all these years. I like being able to categorize though. My Amazon buggy is always full of stuff. I save some for later so I don't feel guilty. I used to be on a forum for rooting my phone so I could flash custom ROMs and also one for cars.

[@a.hoftmaurer3402]

I have PTAS (pretty things acquisition syndrome), DTMPAAOS (do too many projects all at once syndrome) and SDTRBFS (stop doing things right before finishing syndrome).

[@honoluluwampum]

YES and PLEASE SAVE ME!!!

[@71Siddy]

Hey FJ! Have you concidered that GAS might be your form for procrastination? I recently figured out that this is what I do with art materials and art videos.... instead of "just doing it". So now I'm reminding myself constantly of this.... sometimes it works, sometimes not so much :-p

[@Viktoria888]

15 years ago I spent a lot of time on forum for a vampire browser game, and we had a role playing game on the forum. My vampire character had a werewolf boyfriend, it was so silly :D The other game was "Let's count to 10000" or something like that. That forum is also closed now.

[@TubeThings]

😂 your old videos make me laugh and want to give you a hug at the same time. Lol I had friends like you in high school. Awww lol This makes me very nostalgic too. Everyone is different. It’s actually been scientifically proven that novelty helps you get into a flow state. It’s actually one of the ways to get rid of writers block or whatever other artistic block... everything in life is about balance though. 🙃😁

[@anonymousJil]

My hubby idea of a stock market is the cattle auction. 😂 That’s right I laugh at my own jokes. I tend to acquire new stuff when I’m anxious. Like I’m going to Vegas with a friend that new dress will make it so much more fun! I call the feeling the Want Monsters! I’m currently pining for a new iMac. I have the first one I bought like 10 years ago. Plays Lotro fine but the new one is big and shiny! Problem is a really want to build a new house in the next five years and saving money is sorta part of that.

[@porusuttamsrivastava9464]

me too as a musician , photographer or phones . yaaas!

[@pinkie904]

Enjoy your gear to the fullest!! I blow my money on local shows and Harry Potter things and NO REGRETS. I would rather "build memories and experiences" with friends at local shows then with strangers in a foreign place. Do you. Don't let the haters get you down.

[@NikkiDocherty74]

I love bookstores. Alot. Many of them have coffee shops inside. I go inside and browse and imagine all the books i would buy if I had the money to buy them and the time to read them. Barnes and Noble has vinyl and turn tables, something else I would love to buy. Did I mention the coffee shop? I could easily get lost in a bookstore. The things essential for survival exist in there. I don't own or buy many books and I more frequently visit libraries and thrift stores. I usually take my daughters to the bookstore to choose some books about once a year. I am not someone who spends a lot. I don't collect things or have hobbies with lots of equipment. Most of the things I like best (besides books, music, movies) don't require much money.

[@ChibbiYumi]

I work at a op shop (thrift shop/charity shop) When I first started working there, I wanted to buy all the nice new things that people would donate. Now when I see things for sale, I look at it, maybe hold it in my hands and appreciate it for what it is like it's a piece of art and then move on.

[@winstonchurchill624]

I have something a little bit different. When I buy something, I have to make sure it’s the absolute best thing. I’ve spent God knows how many hours the past few days looking for a good beginner electric guitar.

[@toyotaprius79]

Watching this a second time Frank. On the whole, if we're materialistic for it then so let it be. Holidays and memories have their weight, but the ability to acquire some gear and just have it later for whenever has its own value that we can appreciate. If it reminds us of something, that's even better. We're able to keep it maintained and horde it and drop it onto some poor sap in the will. Haha Besides maybe a game and two dlc's per year, I hardly buy anything on the impure for myself. The food and gas bill is bad enough. I guess doing that helps saves a miniscule amount more. But sometimes, I treat myself and get a packet of smoked salmon, or as I did in February had meself a fresh tenor Ukulele; after my impulse-bought €20 cheapo became worse for wear.

[@LQ639]

I spend a lot of money on books. It's a possession, yes, but it makes me happy, because books are really interesting and you also learn something new. I also think instruments are a great possession - you can play any music is really beautiful and listening to it is never a waste of time.

[@ripmomcovid4678]

LOL :)) I used to get it. There is a behavioral prescription for it. I now work in a warehouse full of huge cardboard bins of things people have purchased and donated because they had too much and began to feel overwhelmed. The store is like an air conditioned yard sale. I now associate the cool, unique, second-hand stuff that I used to love, with pain. It has broken me of my addiction to shopping. I get my "eye filled" fulfill my need for sensory stimulation without buying anything. I can make things pretty for others and it makes me happy to see people happy with somethings nice. (Uh oh, maybe I am becoming part of the problem??) I think it is all going to work out for the better. I think that if more people had to see what I see, and work this hard to move stuff people thought they wanted and now don't, they would not want to go into a store or buy things. All that said, I think having a few small things that make us happy is nice and necessary. I think we appreciate what we have more when we have fewer items. I agree that I would rather spend money on things that last longer than experiences like a "nice" meal that would be processed in a short time, or going somewhere and having to come home and it is "over." It is probably good to do inventory a few times per year to remind ourselves of all we have. There is a book called the lifespan of a t-shirt, talking about the cost of cotton and man-made fabric in terms of pesticides and chemicals and cheaply paid human labor and full landfills. BTW love the music you write and play. I love playing "by ear." :) FJ, You say you had no friends, but you cared about people and they cared about you. They may be like you and probably still care about you. :)

[@melbeth79]

Lori Yost your comment reminded me of something I heard someone say once. She said take a drive by a dump sometime. in there was someone's time away from thier wife, kids, ruined relationships ect. all for what? For all those material things to break down in the end but take so many hours of work to lay for them. that stuck in my head. I know that's probably more extreme than what you implied, but it reminded me. I agree a few things is better than a bunch of them. I used to collect a bunch of things. now I only do one collection.

[@georginaleeson9036]

Oh, yes! 😱 The urge to buy one's way out of boredom or out of a funk. That's *so* familiar to me that I have put myself on a shopping ban whilst I navigate this volatile period, in order to avoid racking up bills/possessions. I'm intrigued to hear you suggest people might be just wired differently in terms of appreciation of object vs experience. I've not had much luck explaining this either and also tried to declare myself a materialist whilst being a very unmaterialistic person! I value the things that I have chosen and if I really love them the effect doesn't seem to wear off (so I don't suffer too much from hedonic adaptation, which can drive consumerism.) Objects I love can support creativity or personal expression, which can *lead* to experiences (as you said.) However, I wonder if I stay appreciative of things because most of my belongings have *stories* which my associative brain embellishes and connects to other stories as time rolls on. I can't help thinking that when you have shown your guitars you always have a personal story - your brother gifted it to you, it's your early mid-life crisis (😅), your Paul McCartney bass or the Casino, linking you to The Beatles...You always emphasize the personal and maybe that is why such objects still resonate/give value? I'm sorry you were feeling sad today. I'm *amazed* that you're not completely burnt out by your crazily creative vlog spree...

[@FrankJames]

i agree, every possession that is worth keeping has some kind of story and deeper meaning to it.

[@georginaleeson9036]

Frank James I can't help wondering if we're a little more attuned to the experience or 'life' of the thing. It's difficult to articulate. You said you might be sensitive to fabrics in the HSP test. Even though it was a point you were doubtful about I realised it's true for me. I love clothes but only choose very soft fabrics - silk, soft cotton, velvet. I don't really care about the label but am really interested in the design (of anything) and think I can see it in quite a clear-sighted way and so choose things for their innate value, which doesn't really change. And then the stories. I don't know why but everything seems to collect a story...

[@QueenOfKronstad]

I am totally in agreement with you on that argument about buying things over experiences. Sometimes expensive things are like investments for the future, or it will make you happy for a long time. Not all experiences are good or valuable. Some of them suck. Even if it taught you something. Buying something utterly ridiculously expensive for just a short enjoyment can be a great experience. It’s your life for crying out loud.

[@anniesarah503]

I prefer objects over experiences, especially if we are talking about travel. Travel is exhausting because it takes my away from the security of my routine. I’m sure it’s good to travel a little, and I have. Playing a new guitar, alone in my room, or even at open mic, is way more magical than travel. In my opinion.

[@jeffreypmitchell]

Thank you for this GAS realization. Some possessions DO bring happiness. Where can this support group meet? Let me know. Ty

[@Fempath]

I genuinely enjoy your videos, very relatable :D I think G.A.S can be a problem without self discipline, especially being a musician. Shit is expensive! Lol It’s very hard not being hypocritical while being against materialism when we live in a very materialist consumer based society xP That being said I think it’s definitely good to be aware and conscious about it tho sometimes you gotta get that Fender! Lol I like the discussion around that topic. I think it comes down to figuring out what’s going to make you happiest as an individual. I’m probably speaking for others here but for the more adventurous extroverts out there that is probably travelling but for myself at least being an introvert investing in myself wether that be in material things for ease of life or expanding my list of tools to create things with. (Guitars, painting easel, camera, etc) You can create your experience too using material things. :) sorry if that was ranty just wanted to share my point of view :D Cheers!

[@emilyp5587]

I feel this way about AIM. In fact, my husband an I had many of our first conversations (we met in person, but we are products of our time) on it. In some ways it is a relief not to be faced with my teenage self, but in other ways it is sad and I am sad I can't easily access it...or access it at all anymore? Not sure. Also, I have traveled a medium amount and while I do really recommend it, I also think investing in yourself by getting things you will use and truly enjoy is also great. Especially if it causes some kind of growth, however small, to reduce some of the guilt felt. =)

[@marizabarnes]

I’m obsessed with technology in general, since for ever. Not much into buying gear, but more into reading or knowing as much as I can about it. I hacked my friends emails and accounts just for the fun of it (not anymore). I taught them how to use new gadgets or softwares that just came out, I was the one who fixed their laptops etc. It’s hard to keep the pace these days. I’m obsessed with what is coming out, what is it for, how will affect people now and in the future, how can I benefit from it? That is what makes me happy. I’m always looking everywhere to see what I’m missing today. Also I don’t really like this obsession I have about technology, I would rather like to be obsessed about growing my own food for example. But oh well, what can I do? This: 🥕🥕🥕🥑🥑🥑🥦🥦🥦🍓🍓🍓 sounds wiser to me, but I’m not that wise I guess. I’m also obsessed with whatever is beyond the clouds. Space weather is one of my hobbies and passions and is screaming to my ears: “forget about technology and focus on carrots.” I’m obsessed with astronomy and astrology. There is much more activity beyond the clouds and out there that affect us on a daily basis than the activity we have here on Earth. Whatever is happening out there brings consequences here on Earth. The solar system is a system, you can’t separate its parts. Space weather these days blows my mind. Sorry for the long message : /

[@krema8301]

Omg...the ending song was soo awesome🤣😁❤️❤️❤️🌠

[@catjones1305]

I have GAS visual arts is a never ending acquisition wormhole

[@Sam-bs8by]

I relate to this to this video on so many levels , but with Cameras, camera lens, accessories for my camera, wanting a new camera haha. Basically I need a cheaper hobby and that wallet you advertised lol . One of my friends tells me that I should travel more and save money etc, but man, it’s hard to save money for trips when you got GAS lol. Usually I just travel around my state, and try to go out of state at least once a year

[@coljones70]

Ah the GAS is strong with this one . If you have the disposable income, more power to you. If it makes you happy, go for it. Back in the day I use to spend way too much money on vinyl, every pay day I'd be in Dada's to pick up something for my collection. The excitement and the anticipation to get my hands on those records, makes me smile thinking about it 😎 Having to wait six weeks for imported records.

[@jadey4843]

I wanna listen to your songs Frank. Like seriously I want to.

[@c.k.g.]

OMG. One of my friends buys a new guitar every few months. Does he have money? No. He just sells his old guitars and cleans out his bank account. Everytime I see him he's like, "guess what? I got a new bass!" I don't understand...

[@porusuttamsrivastava9464]

no offence but you probably won't , it's a beautiful feeling of buying guitars and basses and any gear really , it makes you feel content , it's beautiful .

[@aveuch]

Why are you so obsessed with him tho?

[@ShineOnBenevolentSun]

Oh hahahah I just had a trip to Guitar Center yesterday. It's such a good thing that no one ever says hi to me when I walk in cause I would end up spending so much...

[@FrankJames]

ha ha those reps are guitar center can be aggressive though if you look like you might buy.

[@hollyp.8849]

I was listening to this in the car and didn’t really pay attention to the title, so I was not expecting you to announce that you had G.A.S. Oh my. 😂 I’m deeefinitely guilty of this, especially at work. The rational part of me knows that my students aren’t going to get any smarter because my classroom is Harry Potter-themed, or because I let them wear goofy costumes and fight each other with foam prop swords when we act out Romeo and Juliet, but it makes the day-to-day more enjoyable, and I look back on things like that fondly. My bank account is definitely asking me to stop indulging my every educational whim, though. When I think of forums, all I can think about is being on the website Neopets when I was like, ten, and my account getting frozen for using inappropriate language on the forums. Long live poetryprincess1993. I was clearly too badass for this world.

[@FrankJames]

wow you were a rebel, man!

[@hollyp.8849]

Frank James I know man, what can I say? 💁🏻‍♀️

[@blueskye23]

l buy fabric and sewing patterns and it makes me happy. 😃 Next month I will buy a sewing machine. Don’t worry, you are just exercising your free will in a way that enriches your existence. 👍🏼

[@emberw214]

My old special online place was LiveJournal. The community was super tight back then. I met soo many amazing people. Then MySpace and FB came along to change the landscape. I don't visit anymore as FB has kinda ruined my willingness to write in the same way I did on LJ. I think I only have one or two friends from LJ that I still keep in contact with. Also, there are memories there I'd rather not visit as well as the person I was on LJ is no longer revelant. But I do miss those times.

[@ineffablewonder]

man, i remember feeling so cool getting that invite code cos there was a time you could only invite 5 people lol

[@lowbrowrodeo]

Thanks! I can now buy a new midi keyboard with a clear conscience. Experiences vs. Stuff. I guess when you buy a guitar and play live or with a band or even by yourself, you've also bought yourself an experience.

[@TrueSacredUnion]

Wow are you my double? Of course I am older and this was a time in my past. Never did get the fender I craved but I used to go to guitar center on a Saturday and dream. Money would have been great back then 🙌🏻😁🤑

[@DestinyGuerra]

GAS is so real. I have the combined chronic issue of always “needing” to acquire the latest gear for my trips or for my classroom. If I could get paid to justify my tech purchases...well, I’d probably just be able to afford those purchases. AND! We need to talk about this outro tune. It’s the best one yet and most worthy of a full length release. Have a contest to vote for one outro ditty to be recorded. Rig it. Do this one.

[@FrankJames]

you think so, huh?

[@DestinyGuerra]

Frank James Yes, yes I do. You’re songwriting skills are way better than you let on. 😉

[@glensharpe5604]

Oh dude you speak my INFJ language but never more than here. My recent acquisition was a Marshall JVM210c. The problem is that it came with a big ass dent in the top. Off to Guitar Center again. They'll make my life "complete"...

[@heatherpence2145]

GAS 😂 And maybe you can go play the guitar at the store like everyday for a couple weeks and maybe after that you won't even want it or realize if you do or don't want it? I've traveled to lots of other countries and I find the same is true of those trips as is in regular old daily life. It depends who you're with, what you're there for... If you're happy as a person in general. I went on a mission trip to guatemala and it was the best trip of them all. I did barely any tourism, went to the poorest areas, spent days working hard, digging, ministering in a language I didn't speak, using the money I brought to bless those in need and nothing can beat that sense of purpose. Been to Paris, London, Japan, Australia... (I can't say it'll be the same for you), but it shocked me how similar those places were to here. It wasn't that cool, honestly. Except the cliffs in Australia , but my most valued moments on those more self-centered touristy trips we're things I'd find at home... A group of hippies playing "wish you were here" all in a circle at the Eiffel tower at night... A group of stangers all joining in on a bus in Australia and randomly singing together on their way to the beach (certain smells in the air) , just... What is it I'm looking for? Peace within my soul , moments of love and displays of things I believe in... When they weren't present in London, and aren't present here in the US, it's the same. A distant feeling of something isn't what it should be. Don't get me wrong. I'd love going all those places with someone I adored and felt alive with. But I'd love just being here if I had that too. Just a perspective to consider ... Hope you get to read my comments I know I comment on the videos late sometimes. I'm currently on a (semi) minimalistic phase. I find truth in that too much stuff can be a burden. It's still so hard because there's times disatisfaction creeps in and one of my go to therapies is buying something new, something I think improves my life... And ya, it may, for a time. But I am really wanting that something deeper, something real, the promise of peace from the Holy Spirit , I know is what I need. I'll let ya know if I find it

[@kimberlynape8165]

My gear - Books ... Bookstores - like a kid in a candy store. Buy -- just don't hoard.

[@ForALimitedTimeOnly]

Yeah I definitely do the thing you were talking about where when you're feeling down you just go buy yourself some new crap... I think this has to do with inferior Se. A couple winters ago I was feeling really really down and wasn't talking to my parents so I just bought myself a bunch of shit as Christmas gifts. I still do this sometimes. I don't have a lot of money so it tends to be small purchases. Maybe like a dank pen for writing poetry... "...came here, ended up staying because I had no friends..." Ugh, I wish this wasn't so relatable for some of the Internet communities that I've been on. Sometimes I like to fantasize about what it would have been like in high school if I hadn't been homeschooled until I was 18, I envision this popular girl with a really solid group of friends but then again, INFJs seem to tend to be chronically solitary creatures so maybe not so much... Do you get this weird feeling of time dysphoria when you think about how long you've been on the Internet? Maybe you've achieved being cooler than I am and spend more time in the real world with real friends and shit now, I don't know. I HAVE friends I can hang out with but seem to prefer the filtered interaction of the Internet more often than not. Paradoxically after having spent over 15 years on the Internet it feels both more connected but lonelier, I'm becoming increasingly aware that the number of millenials that spend their time this way seems to be dwindling and feel crowded out by zoomers and zoomer culture... at the same time the kids seem to look up to me and it's a little weird stepping into the role of ancient Internet witch. I dunno, I guess I'm becoming more and more conscious about how the world around me is changing in so many ways but in many ways, I haven't...

[@zeina4344]

Hey Frank, GAS lol. I know of the behavioral pattern, but it's the first time I've heard the label. I used to go on shopping sprees when I felt low, and that was about filling a void. On the other hand, if I want something, I would get it no matter what others thought. As long as you're content with it and it's not about hoarding, then I think it's healthy in that manner because it makes the inner child content and gives the person internal motivation to do things they enjoy. Best regards, Zee

[@freakpotatoes1494]

You're better off buying an expensive vintage guitar because it will only increase in value over time. You can always sell it. Actually, the same is true for cheaper guitars, as long as they're not totally crappy. My husband has GAS and that's how he justifies it. For other gear, he keeps ALL THE BOXES in our tiny apartment in case he ever wants to sell anything. I hope you have a lot of storage space! You have a really good singing voice, BTW.

[@rekal7775]

Same here. I buy makeup while I wear some like once in a month... I'd like to get a new camera so badly, and with all these good smartphone cameras it kinda doesn't make sense. The ones that are significantly better than smartphone quality are pretty expensive. I'm checking them on some sites and the prices make me too embarrassed to ask for one for my birthday/for Christmas. I wanted to start journaling this summer because I felt like a piece of crap after the exam season squished everything out of me. I bought the journal, and... haven't touched it ever since. Guess what, I hate handwriting.

[@bas.artistry]

Liked at 2:52 I want to get another tattoo but I feel like I’d waste my money, but I also really like thinking about it. I have a heart I wear on my sleeve both, figuratively and physically.

[@o0Marilyn0o]

Experience x 2 : Buy the guitar and drive to Canada to play it. I used to be on fanfictions forums #shame

[@isthisagoodplacetoscream2244]

Love this. Don’t understand cuz I still use a 1990s boom box.

[@zulikkowalski3547]

I use to hang out on the Bioware forums 10 yrs ago ... it's gone now too

[@jeremysmith9694]

This is so funny. TBH I have no problem with this. And I feel stupid about it sometimes. I think I'm on the wrong end, the extreme end. I don't like buying anything. I hate wasting money on things. So I'm left with nothing I enjoy, which sucks. I need to splurge sometimes and buy things I want. But I know I don't have the money so I can never justify it. I'm like the ultimate saver. But when I do decide to spend I totally do. No regrets. No point in worrying about what you do spend on, it's done, live it up.

[@Didi38]

The experience is about how you spend your TIME.You can play the guitar in your room whenever you want but in Guadalupe you go once in a life and to Singapore and Thailand and the hole Globe, but you can bring your guitar with you. You were supposed to see the big picture, the big picture includes them all. :)

[@hayleyweyers917]

I had a professor who would always tell the class that "part of being successful is having the tools needed to achieve that success," or something like that. So get what you need. If you feel guilty or judged because other people think your gear acquisition syndrome is some kind of waste--forget them. Their success looks different than yours. But purchasing stuff to just feel better though? Yeah, might want to reign that in.

[@evegreenification]

“and keep the financial ruin out “ hahahaha

[@Claudithuz]

Oh wow! I think I have this syndrome with office supplies. 🤔