Mad Men is a love letter to the 1960s and a brilliant work of art that examines the precarious nature of life as one navigates through change and adversity – parallelling the essence of the decade. Whether you are watching for the first time or running through it again for the fifth or sixth time (we’ve all been there), the show opens a window into ourselves through the characters on screen.
Despite the problematic culture and seedy underbelly of 1960’s advertising, there are still many lessons that resonate today. During their journeys, characters have moments of clarity that help them overcome the obstacles they face; many of these epiphanies can be implemented in our own lives.
Change the Conversation
“If you don’t like what is being said, then change the conversation” – Don Draper
Starting with one of his most iconic phrases, this quote expresses the freedom and power to change the world around you instead of complaining about it and how others are affecting it. “Changing the conversation” can mean redirecting someone’s perspective on a particular issue, redeeming one’s own image in the eyes of the public, or simply reframing the subject to make you look better.
Standing by on the sidelines and watching life happen around you is no way to live. Be proactive and use your unique voice to help the world evolve. Create and let others be changed by it.
You’re Painting a Masterpiece
“You’re painting a masterpiece; make sure to hide the brushstrokes.” – Betty Draper
She is expressing the importance of understanding the value of life as a whole, and being aware of the choices one makes and how you can cover up the small mistakes or poor choices – aka brushstrokes. It’s easy to take time for granted, so keep this quote in mind and keep your eyes on the prize: creating your personal masterpiece.
Keep in mind that Betty’s character was also always one to hide behind the polished and picturesque image of her life, and her impossible expectations ultimately were set up to fall short. Sometimes brushstrokes are just a part of the final work of art, as long as they are made with intention.
It Simply is
“Change is neither good nor bad. It simply is.” – Don Draper
Many of us are scared of change because we grow comfortable with the familiar even if it isn’t ideal. Don reminds us of the reality that change is inevitable and being indifferent and fearing it is a waste of energy. Instead of dreading the potential transitions of life, flow with the uncertainty. Enjoy the ride. And like Don himself, turn those changes to your liking.
Loyalty is Born
“One never knows how loyalty is born.” – Bert Cooper
Anyone with business experience knows that allies can come from unlikely places, so treating everyone with respect – no matter their position – is the best way to achieve success.
Companies are typically built through the collaboration of many individuals, and each role in the team is invaluable. Staying humble and acknowledging the potential in each relationship will generate loyalty when you really need it.
When People Get What They Want
“Sometimes when people get what they want, they realize how limited their goals were” – Joan Holloway
Simply put: dream bigger. Many people will spend years chasing after a goal that is ultimately beneath them because they lack the confidence to look at the big picture. The biggest obstacle to success is standing in one’s own way and limiting potential due to insecurity. Understand your value and think about what your aspirations would be if failing were impossible.
Our Worst Fears
“Our worst fears lie in anticipation.” – Don Draper
A reference to French novelist Honoré de Balzac, Don is touching on the anxieties we feel about the unknown. In anticipation, the possibilities of a situation are endless, and being the worry-warts we are, we often lean toward the darkest scenario. The line itself is meant as a comfort, knowing that the worst is just in our mind and the reality most likely is much better.
You’ll Be Second
“I’d never recommend imitation as a strategy. You’ll be second, which is very far from first.” – Peggy Olson
Although imitation is seen as the sincerest form of flattery, it is not the way to stand out. Be innovative with your ideas and make them unique to your goals and audience. It is understandable to take inspiration from other successes but create a legacy by making the ultimate product the first of its kind.
Forward
“I have a life and it only goes in one direction. Forward.” – Don Draper
Perhaps his most famous line, this phrase insists that no matter the trials of the past, life moves on. It is easy to get caught up in the mistakes that have been made or the words that should have gone unsaid, but what’s done is done, and no amount of worrying will ever change that. Every day is a fresh start, and holding on to regrets will only hold you back. Just move forward.
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