Ep. 49 - The Hero's Journey and Jewelry Shopping: When to Listen and When to Lead

Buy Like a Guy

In this episode, we're going to clue you in on a valuable lesson about knowing how much to involve your partner in decisions, especially when it comes to something as significant as fine jewelry. The story begins with a couple who wanted to design some rings at the behest of her fiance, and it starts off beautifully. He surprises her with colored gemstones and sets the stage for a romantic journey. They discuss styles, metals, and diamonds - crucial details for all involved. However, the magic starts to fade when he bombards her with rapid-fire questions, inadvertently shifting the decision-making burden onto her. That's a bad idea, and it can kill the romantic notion that surrounds the majesty of a loving gesture from one person to another. If you're shopping for an engagement ring or other jewelry together, gather the preliminary details like diamond shape, metal color, and overall style. If she expresses a strong preference for a specific ring, consider it a win and take the lead from there. This shift ensures she can step back and it allows you to take the reins. (Which, quite honestly, she prefers.) This entire process has great parallels to a concept called the Hero's Journey, a familiar trope in storytelling. It starts with you, the guy who wants to propose, as the hero, embarking on a journey with the goal of getting a ring, and popping the question. At the beginning, your partner serves as the guide, providing essential input on style, diamond shape, size, and other basics. Once you're armed with these foundational details, it's time to continue the journey alone. She's out of it, and waits with anticipation as you go on your quest to slay the dragon that in this case, is that engagement ring. There are many villains in your way, and I submit the most difficult one to conquer is Indecision. Like all great heroes, you need a guide who can direct you down the right path and help you avoid the pitfalls that stand in your way to victory. This is where a jewelry professional from an independent store becomes your guide. They can offer insights on options, styles, prices, and timelines, empowering you to make a confident decision on your own. (No more overwhelming your partner with endless questions along the way. See? That keeps the magic alive.) With the help of your guide, you lead the charge, and when you unveil the ring you chose, and she sees it for the first time, you are her hero.

If you'd like help finding a jeweler closer to home, email me at [e-mail] and I'll do my best to put you in touch with some of the best jewelers on earth.

Music credits: Preacher Man by Miles Neilson and The Rusted Hearts, used with permission. A killer band with original songs that get stuck in your head. They're awesome.

Listen To Preacher Man on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/7ImcaJKIk0ZVtPzuUVV4vc?si=80581c74a9be4987