What Are The Signs You’re Taking The Hobby Too Seriously

We've seen the signs of taking something to the brink, to an extreme that's unhealthy for both the person and the community surrounding them. The photo above isn't necessarily a good example, as collecting one type of vehicle can be immensely rewarding for everyone associated with the collection. It mostly proves that we can become more and more serious in the car hobby.

Perhaps that means we are taking other aspects of our lives too seriously? Are there signs that our love of the automobile is heading us down a path of diminished returns? I believe so, and, for me at least, that mostly centers around the stress caused by Hagerty's Project Valentino series.*

Perfection Is Overrated

My time with this 1983 Lincoln Continental Valentino Designer Series has been one of delightful highs and terrifying lows. I've managed to keep that stress in check, or so I'd like to think. Sometimes I'll make a dark, disparaging comment about restorations (and restomods in particular) with folks in the classic car scene, and that's likely because I haven't come close to finishing this car. I try to be a positive person, and bitterness/sarcasm isn't exactly great for my constitution.

So here's the punchline to the joke (as it were): I have been chasing perfection with Project Valentino for years decades, but life as a writer with Hagerty Media made me change my tune. Now I just want the car done and clean enough to impress most folks at a local car show. Perfection is officially overrated for me. Both myself and Project Valentino will be better for it.

What about you, Hagerty Community? What are the signs that you are taking things just a tad too seriously for your own good?

*This asterisk is for Hagerty Community member DUB6, as I have been neglecting this project for other vehicles that are closer to being running and/or restored. I see you, and I will get back on this car soon. I just need to make sure I, ahem, don't take things too seriously.