Published September 01, 2025 | By Travis L, Collectors MD Supporter

In today’s hobby, it often feels like the loudest voices are the ones flaunting their collections—not because of the joy they bring, but because of their value. But how they collect does not need to be how you collect.

It’s natural to feel a little jealous when you see someone show off a wall of 1/1’s or grail cards. I’ve felt it too. In moderation, that jealousy isn’t necessarily bad—it reminds us what we admire. But when it turns into obsession, when it pushes us to chase pieces beyond our means, it can cause harm in our lives. Our emotions are valid, but they shouldn’t control our actions.

Over time, I’ve learned that my collection is meant to make me happy—not the world. Yes, it’s nice when someone compliments what you’ve built, but that should be a byproduct, not the goal. A modest collection built on passion and intention will always bring more joy and peace than one built on jealousy and obsession.

Whether it’s a simple set of base cards or an entire rainbow of 1/1’s, what matters is your joy, not anyone else’s approval.

When I returned to the hobby after years away from it, I learned this lesson the hard way. I fell into break and flipping culture alongside the dream sold to me: hit big and you’ll make a fortune. What I wasn’t informed about was the truth—the card market is extremely volatile, the odds of hitting a huge card in a break are wildly slim, and not everyone who seems “helpful” has your best interest at heart. The money I lost wasn’t the highest or the lowest, but it was enough to teach me a painful lesson.

Recovery in this hobby isn’t about perfection, it’s about support. Setting financial boundaries. Talking through the tough moments with friends or a group who understands. Seeking therapy with trained professionals. Even just naming the struggle out loud. These tools don’t erase the challenge, but they give us the strength to navigate it.

And through it all, we must remember: Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is recovery. Each boundary, each conversation, each step forward is another brick. Keep building, and one day you’ll look back and realize you’ve created a Rome of your own.

#CollectorsMD
Your collection doesn’t need to impress the world. It just needs to bring you peace.

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