I’m trying to train my nose beyond ‘this smells good.’ What helped you most early on comparisons, note breakdowns, or just wearing fragrances over time?

Where I want to be in my career or business in three years In three years, I want to be established in a role where I am trusted for my judgment, experience, and ability to solve difficult problems. I see myself in a leadership or senior advisory position where I am actively guiding projects, mentoring others, and helping organizations make sound, ethical decisions. I want to be known for delivering results while doing things the right way—no shortcuts, no excuses. By that point, I want to be able to point to measurable achievements: successful projects completed, systems improved, and people who are better off because of my involvement. I want my work environment to value accountability, professionalism, and collaboration. Most importantly, I want to be part of a culture where people keep their word, respect one another, and take pride in doing meaningful work that makes a real impact. Steps I need to take to reach my three-year career vision To reach that vision, I need to be intentional and disciplined with my next steps. This includes keeping my resume and professional profile current so they accurately reflect my experience, accomplishments, and leadership capabilities. I need to continue strengthening my skills—especially in strategic planning, communication, and problem-solving—so I remain effective in increasingly complex situations. I also need to expand my professional network by building and maintaining relationships based on trust and mutual respect, not just convenience. Seeking out opportunities that challenge me, even when they are uncomfortable, will be important for growth. Finally, I must remain consistent in how I show up every day—prepared, reliable, and willing to take responsibility for outcomes. What’s holding me back from advancing in my career or business The biggest obstacles are not external—they are internal. At times, I can rely too heavily on past experience instead of actively pushing myself toward the next level. Balancing competing responsibilities can also slow momentum if I’m not careful with time management and prioritization.

I did a comparison between these two, and discovered that both are amazing scents that are similar, but go in different directions. With Aaron discontinuing Homme, I might want to snag another 10ml before they're gone! Prada has a sweet, fresh, iris open. Light woods & tonka soon join. Sweetness fades in and out after an hour, joined by a slight leather note. Fragrance remains stable as a soft, powdery, iris, woody blend with touch of leather and not too sweet. It also maintains an airy, freshness throughout. Moderate sillage for an hour, steady mild sillage after that up to 7+hrs. Very nice, understated, elegant and romantic. ATH Homme is obviously iris forward, medium toned, with powder, ambery wood and sweetness. A very well done, warm iris fragrance. Elegant or casual. Moderate proj & sillage for 2 hrs, then mild to 6+ hrs. Both fragrances open and drydown beautifully, smell luxurious, are expertly designed, and have excellent projection and longevity. Prada is more fresh to my nose, and fits a little more of an elegant, professional setting, but I could see it in casual, social settings also. ATH is warmer, sweeter and woodier, and it hits the comfort button for me. Beautiful and soothing. I'll eventually compare these to the new Dior Homme Intense, but in the mean-time, if you're an iris fan, owning both of these is not redundant at all, and I recommend it!

Introduce yourself and level-up, it's that simple! You'll get at least 5 likes (oftentimes more!) which will move you to level 2 and on your way to level 3 (these levels give you access to prizes!). What to say in your intro? Share where you're from, your reason for joining, your profession, perhaps your favorite fragrance or a picture of your entire collection! Whether you're a seasoned cologne collector or just starting, have fun engaging with the group.

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