What Does It Mean To Be an Icon?

Photo by Pisit Heng on Unsplash

Traditional Icon Definitions

There are a few Icon definitions depending on the source. 

• According to collinsdictionary.com, if you describe something or someone as an icon, you mean that they are important as a symbol of something. 

• urbandictionary.com defines an icon as "an individual who is known for their authentic personality and individual aesthetic."

• An icon is a symbol of “something else” from What Does Being an Icon Mean

• Merriam-Webster's definition of an icon says "a person or thing widely admired, especially for having great influence or significance in a particular sphere."

• Stephane de Roussan: An icon to me is someone who has made a tangible difference and positive influence on a measurable scale. 

So it looks like a lot of definitions look at the level of success, notoriety, or fame a person has achieved.

But I disagree.

Mahatma Gandhi was an icon.

How can I be an icon?

Some key tips on becoming an effective icon can include:

• Be well-versed in your chosen topic or field of interest.

• Cultivate a unique style that expresses who you are and what you stand for.

• Stay true to your vision and principles.

• Put the needs of others ahead of your own.

• Be accessible and communicative with those who want to communicate with you.

Additionally, it is important to cultivate a positive public image – project a positive message through your work and online presence, regardless of whether or not people agree with your opinions or viewpoints. Finally, always be prepared to change and evolve as your world evolves - that is called progress – keep learning and growing as a person so that you can continue contributing valuable content for years to come.

Nelson Mandela was an icon.

How to be an iconic person?

A few things can help you create a lasting legacy and become an admired figure in your life. First and foremost, be passionate about what you do. If you love what you do, others will as well. Secondly, be willing to take risks. Be willing to put yourself out there and be creative in your approach. And finally, don’t forget to have fun! It’s important to enjoy life – both the good and the bad – and let your personality shine through.

Can you call yourself an icon?

What do you think? In general, an icon is someone who is widely recognized and respected for their achievements and contributions to the world. Factors that may contribute to someone being considered an icon include ways that you treat others in the world, your work's longevity, and your work's impact on society or culture.

While it is possible for anyone to be considered an icon, there are certain factors that may make some individuals more likely to be recognized as such than others.

But can you and should you call yourself an icon?

Do you want other people to figure out you're a true icon or do you think it's right to tell them that you're an icon?

If you call yourself an icon, you're not, you're an asshole.

In today's world, being called an "icon" is one of the most overused terms in the business world. It implies that you are some kind of respected expert or thought leader when really, you're just a guy with a lot of followers on social media.

Calling yourself an "icon" doesn't make you any better than anyone else; it makes you an asshole.

The whole point of being an icon is that your actions make the world a better place. It's that simple. It's not because you wrote a couple lyrics to a song or you have "social status" or you have more money or you have millions of followers on social media.

Do something good for the world. That's how you become an icon.

Is Big Boy Bamboo iconic because we make bamboo clothing?

Of course not.

Although we think bamboo clothing is iconic because it is made with sustainable materials, keeps your body 3 degrees cooler than plain cotton, and makes everyone who wears it look and feel great, that doesn't make our company iconic. The natural materials and simple design of bamboo clothing make it highly recognizable and fashionable. The popularity of bamboo clothing has led to its use as an icon for sustainable fashion initiatives.

Are we icons because we make sustainable bamboo t-shirts?

Once again, of course not. This isn't about us. This is about you.

If wearing our bamboo viscose t-shirts gives you that extra confidence of looking your best and you go out and make a positive difference in the world, then we did our job. WE MADE YOU ICONIC.

Remember, it is not about us, it's about you. It's about helping you achieve your best and doing good things for others. That's what icons do. And if we help you look your best while you achieve your best, we'll be happy.

Given that bamboo is a sustainable resource and our bamboo t-shirts are made from 70% Organic Bamboo Viscose & 30% Organic Cotton, wearing Big Boy Bamboo will give you the confidence to do your best work. Our t-shirts not only look good but also feel good - made with environmentally friendly materials and processed without any harsh chemicals. We hope that by making you an icon of sustainability, you can make a small contribution to preserving our planet for future generations.