Psychographics

Psycho Graphics....

Yea, that's pretty much what I thought of when I heard the word. But it turns out psycho-graphics is not only an awesome name for a tattoo parlor but it is actually a sort of analysis of how, why, and what you spend money on and though it looks a lot more boring than my original mental image...

it is actually a very interesting study. After taking a sort of survey like test I got to find out where I fit into the psycho-graphics chart. As it turns out my primary result was "Experiencers". Which is defined as follows:

Experiencers are motivated by self-expression. Young, enthusiastic, and impulsive consumers, Experiencers quickly become enthusiastic about new possibilities but are equally quick to cool. They seek variety and excitement, savoring the new, the offbeat, and the risky. Their energy finds an outlet in exercise, sports, outdoor recreation, and social activities

Experiencers are avid consumers and spend a comparatively high proportion of their income on fashion, entertainment, and socializing. Their purchases reflect the emphasis that they place on looking good and having "cool" stuff.

Which is largely true for me. Almost any extra money I have that isn't spent on practical or essential things is spent on clothing and video games. Aside from the whole sports and outdoor activities part this is me to a "T".

My secondary result was in the "Innovators" catagory. and it is defined as:

Innovators are successful, sophisticated, take-charge people with high self-esteem. Because they have such abundant resources, they exhibit all three primary motivations in varying degrees. They are change leaders and are the most receptive to new ideas and technologies. Innovators are very active consumers, and their purchases reflect cultivated tastes for upscale, niche products and services.

Image is important to Innovators, not as evidence of status or power but as an expression of their taste, independence, and personality. Innovators are among the established and emerging leaders in business and government, yet they continue to seek challenges. Their lives are characterized by variety. Their possessions and recreation reflect a cultivated taste for the finer things in life.

Which is very flattering but unfortunately a little more untrue than the last. It would be mostly true, if I had the financial recourses it claims I do. However, I don't flatter myself to think I would be a great leader. Though it is true that I love new ideas and technology. Trust me when I say, if I had the money you bet I would be spending it on "the finer things in life".

This test was a fun way of delving a little deeper into myself and seeing some things that I had just never thought to look for about myself. People don't usually think to themselves "why do I buy the things I do and what does that say about me in relation to others?" but it sure is fun to find out. This could also help you if you maybe have some financial problems as I do, to figure out why that is. Maybe you're waisting too much money on that second vacation you don't really need or that third BMW to show up your neighbors new Audi. Or if not, it's kinda cool anyway just to see where you fit on the scale.