Once shunned, geek culture is now more prevalent and popular than ever. You may not consider yourself a part of it, but you likely do more geeky things than you may think. You are more than just smart. Being a geek is being passionate about something you love, and there’s nothing wrong with that. These are four signs that you really are a proud member of geek culture.
You Are Part of a Fandom
You may not realize it, but if you interact with other fans on a regular basis, you are in fandom. Fandom is a group of people who are fans of interest. For example, there is a Walking Dead fandom and a Sherlock fandom. People involved in fandoms often make art, write fanfiction, discuss their interests, and consider themselves part of a community. This sense of community that develops around fandom is an integral part of geek culture.
Your Fandom Takes Your Money
Hobbies, especially geeky ones, can be expensive. If you find yourself spending all the money you can spare on hobbies or interests, then that is a pretty good sign you are a part of geek culture. You don’t just buy the show—you own much of the merchandise of your favorite character. You keep up with each new expansion of your favorite trading card game. Once your wallet is heavily involved, there’s no turning back.
You Wear “Geek” Clothing
If your closet is full of clothing showcasing your interests, that is a part of geek culture. For example, a fan of Dragon Ball Z often takes delight in wearing Dragon Ball Z clothing as part of their wardrobe. The great thing about wearing clothing that represents your interest is that you meet other fans. This is a great way to make new friends and display your interest in public. You will likely be surprised by the number of people who recognize your interest.
You Have Gone to Conventions (or Want to)
Fan conventions are, in many ways, the epitome of geek culture. Conventions are not just for Star Trek fans anymore. Even smaller but no less devoted fandoms, such as Supernatural, have their own conventions where fans can celebrate the show and meet the actors. Other types of cons that are popular include anime conventions, My Little Pony conventions, and gaming conventions. If you have never been to a convention before, be sure to come prepared.
For first-timers, you can take baby steps by just attending. If you want to dive in, you can make costumes by hand if you know how to sew or you’re determined to learn. There are plenty of tutorials you can find online for popular characters and many others. Whether you like to cosplay or role-play, you’ll find that these communities are welcoming. Check out this excellent beginner’s guide to live-action role-playing if you want to learn more about LARP.
If you are passionate about an interest, hobby, or intellectual pursuit, you are a part of geek culture. If you wear geek-themed clothes or you frequent pop culture and gaming sites like Geekly, then you definitely are. These communities enrich lives and make life worth living. This makes geek culture and being a part of it, more important than you might think.