A Sense of Identity

Is it true that as one gets older a sense of identity becomes of less importance? It certainly is in my case. When I was younger I attached considerable weight to particular things because I felt that a) they said something about me and that b) people were interested in what these things said about me. Thus I would make a concerted effort to read The East Anglian Daily Times, listen to Glenn Miller records, smoke du Maurier cigarettes and wear Hush Puppies in the sincere belief that other people would take heed of this "statement of self". The height of vanity, when you come to think of it, since I wasn't the slightest bit interested in what other people were reading, listening to, smoking or wearing!
Nowadays, even if I had the money I just cannot see myself lashing out on, say, a Rolex watch. At least not for myself though I can perfectly well see myself buying one if I thought it would please someone. Whatever turns you on!