Patrick Gaudet of Clicöt & ‘Time Fixes Everything’ On How To Navigate Our Complicated Modern World…

Patrick Gaudet of Clicöt & ‘Time Fixes Everything’ On How To Navigate Our Complicated Modern World To Find Love

…Boundaries: Establish and maintain healthy boundaries to protect your emotional well-being and maintain respect in relationships. Clearly communicate your boundaries to your partner and be assertive in upholding them. I once struggled with boundary-setting in a relationship, which led to feelings of resentment and frustration. Learning to assert my boundaries helped me regain a sense of control and autonomy.

In today’s fast-paced and interconnected world, finding and maintaining meaningful romantic relationships can be a daunting task. From navigating dating apps to managing expectations in a digital age, there are numerous challenges individuals face in their quest for love. Through this series, we would like to explore the complexities of modern dating and relationships, offering insights, advice, and strategies for navigating the often confusing landscape of love in the 21st century. In this series, we are talking to experts in psychology, relationship coaching, sociology, matchmaking, and individuals with personal experiences navigating the modern dating scene, to share their knowledge, perspectives, and stories. As part of this series, we had the pleasure of interviewing Patrick Gaudet.

Patrick Gaudet is the CEO and Founder of Clicöt Watches, an innovative brand born out of his passion for timepieces and his vision for authenticity in the modern world. Alongside his entrepreneurial endeavours, he has spearheaded the Time Fixes Everything (TFE) movement, a global initiative focused on fostering genuine connections, healing, and personal growth.

With a background in entrepreneurship and a passion for storytelling, he embarked on a quest to redefine the traditional notions of success and fulfilment. Through candid conversations and heartfelt sharing, he’s inspired hundreds of thousands of individuals worldwide to embrace vulnerability and authenticity as pathways to healing and transformation.

From navigating personal heartbreak to building a thriving community centered around genuine connections, his journey is a testament to the power of vulnerability and human connection. As he continues to share his story and insights with the world, he invites you all to join him on this journey of self-discovery, mutual support, and collective healing.

Thank you so much for your time! I know that you are a very busy person. Our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you tell us your “Origin Story”? Can you tell us the story of how you grew up?

I grew up in a family of three kids, I have an older brother and a younger sister with loving parents who are still together to this day.

My childhood was filled with warmth, laughter, and a nurturing environment that comes with a supportive family. From a young age, they taught me the values that I have today of empathy, curiosity, and a thirst for knowledge.

My parents provided not only material support but also emotional guidance, teaching me the importance of integrity, hard work, and compassion. They encouraged me to explore my interests and pursue my passions, giving me a sense of independence and resilience.

Throughout the years, I experienced the joys and challenges that come with navigating adolescence and discovering my place in the world. I learned valuable lessons about perseverance, adaptability, and the power of human connection.

Reflecting on those past years, I’m grateful for the strong foundation it provided me and the lessons that continue to shape who I am today. It’s a story rooted in love, kindness, support, and the belief that with determination and a compassionate heart, anything is possible.

Can you tell us a bit about what you do professionally, and what brought you to this specific career path?

I’m the visionary behind Clicöt Watches, pronounced (KLEE-KO). During the chaos of the pandemic, I found myself at a crossroads, unable to pursue my career in the automobile industry where I was a Financial Director. Yet, from adversity comes opportunity, and with my passion for watches and spirit for taking on new challenges, I launched the Clicöt brand with the money that I had saved up.

To my surprise, this was just the beginning of an even bigger mission. While building my brand, I encountered personal issues and had to navigate a separation after a 7-year relationship. Rather than retreat into silence, I chose to open up and share my experiences with the world, igniting a movement that transcends boundaries.

Enter my social media venture on TikTok. What started as a humble endeavour, quickly blossomed into a community of over 330K individuals, all drawn to the raw authenticity and relatable content. It became evident that there was a void waiting to be filled — a space where men, entrepreneurs, and individuals alike could openly discuss their emotional landscapes.

This is where ‘Time Fixes Everything’ was born — a movement dedicated to unravelling the complexities of love, healing, overthinking, and the often misunderstood realm of feelings and vulnerability. Together, we’re rewriting the narrative, breaking down barriers, and fostering meaningful connections.

That being said, we embark on this transformative journey, where time isn’t just measured in seconds and minutes but in moments of growth, understanding, and shared humanity.

You are a successful leader. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?

Of course! The three character traits that have been most instrumental to my success as a leader are honesty, authenticity, and vulnerability.

Honesty: In my personal life, honesty has been a guiding principle that has strengthened my relationships and helped me navigate challenging situations. For instance, there was a time when a close friend confided in me about a mistake they had made that could potentially harm another friend. Instead of turning a blind eye or keeping their secret, I chose to confront my friend with honesty and compassion. Even though it was difficult, I believed that honesty was the foundation of our friendship, and I wanted to support them in making things right. This commitment to honesty not only preserved the integrity of our friendship but also encouraged my friend to take responsibility for their actions and look for forgiveness.

Authenticity: Being authentic has allowed me to cultivate meaningful connections and live a more fulfilling life. For example, in social settings, I used to feel pressured to conform to societal norms and project a certain image of success and happiness. However, as I embraced my true self and shared my genuine thoughts and feelings with others, I found that I attracted like-minded individuals who appreciated me for who I truly was. By embracing my authenticity, I’ve been able to form deeper, more authentic relationships built on mutual respect and understanding.

Vulnerability: Embracing vulnerability has been transformative in my personal growth journey, allowing me to embrace my imperfections and connect with others on a deeper level. One moment of vulnerability occurred when I was going through a difficult period of self-doubt and insecurity. Instead of hiding my struggles or putting up a facade of strength, I chose to confide in a trusted friend about my fears and insecurities. To my surprise, they responded with empathy and shared their own struggles, creating a bond of solidarity and support. This experience taught me that vulnerability is not a weakness but a source of strength that allows us to forge genuine connections and find strength in our shared humanity.

In essence, my commitment to honesty, authenticity, and vulnerability has not only enriched my personal relationships but has also empowered me to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. These qualities have helped me navigate life’s challenges with courage and integrity, allowing me to grow as an individual and contribute positively to the world around me.

Are you working on any exciting new projects now? How do you think that will help people?

Our latest initiative, the Time Fixes Everything movement, is already making a significant impact on the lives of hundreds of thousands of individuals. We are not merely building a movement or a community but rather building a sense of familial belonging — a safe haven for those seeking healing and connection. Members are joining our family to share their experiences, embark on their healing journey, and find peace in the company of like-minded individuals.

Through the Time Fixes Everything project, individuals have the opportunity to proudly wear merchandise that signals their commitment to personal growth and healing. This merchandise serves as a beacon, allowing others to recognize fellow people on the same journey and embrace them as part of our supportive family.

Testimonials from our members underscore the profound impact of our efforts. From helping individuals during their darkest moments to facilitating reconciliation in relationships, our movement has played a pivotal role in building healing and growth. We have witnessed the formation of new relationships and friendships, all fuelled by the positivity and sense of belonging that we strive to cultivate.

For the benefit of our readers, can you briefly tell our readers why you are an authority on the topic of dating and finding love?

Absolutely, it’s crucial to emphasize that the success of our movement, Time Fixes Everything, as well as my TikTok page comes directly from the relatable content I share, my authentic tone, and the raw honesty and vulnerability I bring to the table every day. I want to make it clear that I’m not a doctor or relationship specialist — I’m just another human being navigating life’s ups and downs like everyone else.

Through my personal experiences and the lessons I’ve learned along the way, I strive to create a space where others can feel seen, heard, and understood. It’s about connecting on a human level, acknowledging our shared struggles, and celebrating our triumphs together.

The authenticity of our movement lies in its grassroots nature — it’s driven by real people, real stories, and real emotions. And that’s what resonates with our audience. Whether it’s sharing the highs and lows of my own journey or providing a platform for others to do the same, our movement is grounded in genuine human connection.

At the end of the day, it’s not about having all the answers or claiming to be an expert. It’s about being open, honest, and vulnerable, and creating a supportive community where we can all learn and grow together.

Ok. Thank you for that. Let’s now shift to the main part of our discussion about ‘How To Navigate Our Complicated Modern World To Find Love’. Based on your experience, what is a common root cause of the “inability to find love”

In my experience, a common root cause of the “inability to find love” in today’s society is the pervasive belief that showing vulnerability and seeking help is a sign of weakness. In our modern world, there’s often a stigma attached to admitting struggles or seeking support, especially when it comes to matters of the heart. Society has conditioned us to believe that we must present ourselves as strong, independent individuals who have it all figured out.

Unfortunately, this mindset can prevent people from acknowledging their own needs and vulnerabilities, leading them to suppress their emotions and avoid seeking the help they truly need. Many individuals are afraid to confront their insecurities or put in the necessary work on themselves to cultivate healthy and fulfilling relationships.

Moreover, the pressure to portray an idealized version of ourselves on social media exacerbates this issue, creating a culture of comparison and unrealistic expectations. People may feel inadequate or unworthy if they don’t measure up to the curated images of perfection they see online.

As a result, genuine connections can be hindered, and opportunities for meaningful relationships may be missed. It’s essential to challenge these societal norms and encourage individuals to embrace their authenticity, vulnerability, and humanity. By creating a culture of acceptance and support, we can empower people to seek the help they need and embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, ultimately leading to healthier and more fulfilling relationships.

What are some common misconceptions or myths about finding love in the modern world, and how can they be debunked?

One common misconception I’ve encountered in the modern world is the belief that men and women are fundamentally different when it comes to relationships. While it’s true that there are differences in communication styles and emotional expression between genders, I believe that we are more similar than we often realize.

A huge myth is that men and women have vastly different needs, ways of loving, and expectations in relationships. However, I’ve found that while our approaches may vary, our ultimate desires and the emotions we seek to fulfil are remarkably similar. We all crave connection, understanding, and validation in our relationships, regardless of gender.

To debunk this misconception, it’s essential to recognize that individual differences exist within each gender, and generalizations can be misleading. Instead of focusing solely on gender stereotypes, we should strive to understand and appreciate the unique needs and preferences of each person as an individual.

By building open and honest communication, we can bridge the gap between perceived differences and cultivate deeper connections based on mutual respect and understanding. Ultimately, debunking these myths allows us to approach relationships with a more inclusive and empathetic mindset, leading to more fulfilling and authentic connections for everyone involved.

What advice do you have for individuals who feel overwhelmed or disillusioned by the challenges of modern dating, and how can they maintain hope and optimism in their search for love?

My advice for individuals feeling overwhelmed or disillusioned by the challenges of modern dating is to hold on to the belief that time fixes everything. I strongly advocate for patience and resilience in the pursuit of love. While it’s understandable to feel the pressure to find that once-in-a-lifetime connection, rushing into relationships or dating multiple people out of desperation can often lead to more heartache in the long run.

In my experience, it’s better to be patient and wait for the right person rather than settling for someone who doesn’t truly fulfil your needs or align with your values. Trusting that love will come when the time is right can alleviate the stress and anxiety associated with modern dating.

The saying “they will come when you least expect it” resonates deeply with me, as it emphasizes the importance of being open to love but not fixating on it. Instead of actively seeking out love, focus on self-improvement, personal growth, and pursuing your passions and interests. By investing in yourself and leading a fulfilling life, you become more attractive to potential partners and increase your chances of finding a meaningful connection.

Additionally, maintaining a positive mindset and surrounding yourself with supportive friends and family can help bolster your hope and optimism during challenging times. Remember that everyone’s journey to love is unique, and setbacks are a natural part of the process. Stay resilient, keep an open heart, and trust that the right person will come into your life when the timing is perfect.

Let’s explore how the rise of social media and dating apps has impacted the way individuals approach and experience dating and relationships. Can you share a few dos and don’ts about how to use social media to find love?

Of course, after all, the rise of social media and dating apps has undoubtedly transformed the landscape of modern dating and relationships. Let’s dive into some do’s and don’ts:

Dos:

Be authentic: Authenticity is key when presenting yourself on social media platforms. Use genuine photos and write an honest bio that reflects your personality, interests, and values. Authenticity attracts genuine connections.
Engage meaningfully: Instead of passively scrolling through profiles, actively engage with others by liking, commenting, and initiating conversations. Genuine interactions can lead to meaningful connections and potential matches.
Practice patience: Finding love takes time, so be patient and don’t get discouraged by setbacks or rejections. Trust that the right person will come along when the timing is right.
Use multiple platforms: Expand your dating pool by using multiple social media platforms and dating apps. Each platform offers unique features and a different user base, increasing your chances of finding compatible matches.
Be respectful: Treat others with kindness, respect, and courtesy, both online and offline. Remember that behind every profile is a real person with feelings and emotions.

Don’ts:

Don’t overshare: While it’s important to be authentic, avoid oversharing personal or sensitive information on your social media profiles. Maintain a level of privacy and discretion to protect your safety and security.
Don’t compare yourself: Avoid comparing yourself to others or idealized images of perfection on social media. Focus on being the best version of yourself and celebrate your unique qualities and strengths.
Don’t rely solely on social media: While social media can be a valuable tool for meeting new people, don’t rely solely on it to find love. Take advantage of offline opportunities to meet potential partners through mutual friends, social events, or hobbies.
Don’t rush into relationships: Take the time to get to know someone before rushing into a relationship. Use social media as a platform to build a connection and gauge compatibility, but don’t feel pressured to commit too quickly.
Don’t ignore red flags: Pay attention to red flags or warning signs early on in your interactions with potential matches. Trust your instincts and prioritize your safety and well-being above all else.

Can you share a few dos and don’ts about how to use dating apps to find love?

Here are some dos and don’ts for using dating apps to find love but I do find that dating apps and social media are very similar in today’s day and age.

Dos:

Be authentic: Again, present yourself honestly and authentically on your dating profile. Use recent and genuine photos, and write a bio that reflects your true personality, interests, and values. Authenticity attracts genuine connections.
Be proactive: Take the initiative to initiate conversations with potential matches who interest you. Don’t wait for others to reach out first. Showing interest and making the effort to connect can increase your chances of finding a meaningful connection.
Be open-minded: Keep an open mind and be willing to explore connections with people who may not fit your initial criteria perfectly. You might be surprised by who you connect with once you give them a chance.
Practice safety: Prioritize your safety when meeting someone from a dating app. Arrange to meet in a public place for the first few dates, and let a friend or family member know where you’ll be. Trust your instincts and don’t hesitate to leave if you feel uncomfortable.
Take breaks when needed: Dating apps can be overwhelming at times, so don’t hesitate to take breaks when needed to recharge and focus on yourself. It’s essential to prioritize your mental and emotional well-being throughout the dating process.

Don’ts:

Don’t be overly selective: While it’s important to have standards, being overly selective can limit your potential matches and opportunities for connection. Keep an open mind and give people a chance before dismissing them based on superficial criteria.
Don’t engage in ghosting: Ghosting, or abruptly cutting off communication with someone without explanation, is hurtful and disrespectful. If you’re not interested in pursuing a connection, be honest and respectful by communicating your intentions politely.
Don’t rush into intimacy: Take your time getting to know someone before rushing into physical intimacy. Building a strong emotional connection is essential for a healthy and fulfilling relationship.
Don’t ignore red flags: Pay attention to any red flags or warning signs early on in your interactions with potential matches. Trust your instincts and prioritize your safety and well-being above all else.
Don’t get discouraged: Finding love takes time and patience, so don’t get discouraged by setbacks or rejections. Stay positive, focus on self-improvement, and remain open to new possibilities. The right person will come along when the timing is right.

Can you share a few dos and don’ts about looking for romance in real-life physical spaces like congregations, bars, markets, and conventions?

Dos:

Be approachable: Smile, make eye contact, and exude positive energy to make yourself approachable to potential romantic interests.
Strike up conversations: Don’t be afraid to initiate conversations with people you find interesting or attractive. Start with a simple greeting or comment about something in your surroundings to break the ice.
Attend social events: Take advantage of social gatherings, such as parties, community events, or hobby groups, where you can meet new people in a relaxed and natural setting.
Be open-minded: Keep an open mind and be willing to explore connections with people who may not fit your usual type. You never know who you might connect with once you give them a chance.
Practice confidence: Confidence is attractive, so carry yourself with poise and self-assurance when interacting with others. Believe in yourself and your worth, and others will be drawn to your positive energy.

Don’ts:

Don’t be overly pushy: While it’s important to take initiative, avoid coming on too strong or making others feel uncomfortable with aggressive behavior or advances.
Don’t ignore social cues: Pay attention to social cues and body language to gauge whether someone is interested in engaging with you. Respect their boundaries and back off if they seem uninterested or uncomfortable.
Don’t rely solely on alcohol: While bars and clubs can be social settings where people meet, relying solely on alcohol to lower inhibitions and facilitate connections can lead to unhealthy dynamics and miscommunications.
Don’t force connections: If you’re not feeling a spark with someone, don’t force a connection or try to make something happen that isn’t there. Trust your instincts and focus your energy on finding someone who genuinely excites you.
Don’t get discouraged: Finding romance in real-life physical spaces can take time and patience, so don’t get discouraged by setbacks or rejections. Stay positive, keep putting yourself out there, and remain open to new possibilities. The right person will come along when the timing is right.

What are your thoughts about the challenges and opportunities that come with workplace romances?

As someone who has personally experienced workplace romances, I understand firsthand both the challenges and opportunities they entail. While my own experience brought moments of genuine connection and collaboration, it also taught me the importance of navigating such relationships with caution and professionalism to ensure they don’t interfere with work dynamics or create conflicts of interest. It’s a delicate balance, but with clear communication and mutual respect, workplace romances can be managed effectively while still allowing for personal growth and fulfilment.

Can you discuss the role of vulnerability and authenticity in forming meaningful connections and finding lasting love?

I think that when we allow ourselves to be vulnerable, we open the door to genuine intimacy and connection with others. Here’s how:

Building Trust: Vulnerability involves being open and honest about our thoughts, feelings, and experiences, even when it feels uncomfortable or risky. By sharing our vulnerabilities with someone we trust, we demonstrate authenticity and invite them to do the same. This reciprocal sharing fosters trust and deepens the bond between individuals, laying the foundation for a meaningful connection.
Empathy: When we express vulnerability, we show our true selves, including our fears, insecurities, and struggles. This vulnerability allows others to empathize with us and understand our perspective more fully. In turn, we become more attuned to the emotions and experiences of others, strengthening our ability to connect on a deeper level.
Creating Authentic Connections: Authenticity is about being true to ourselves and expressing our genuine thoughts, feelings, and values. When we approach relationships authentically, we attract like-minded individuals who appreciate us for who we truly are. Authentic connections are built on mutual understanding, acceptance, and respect, making them more likely to stand the test of time.
Encouraging Growth: Vulnerability and authenticity create a safe space for personal growth and self-discovery within relationships. When we feel accepted and supported in expressing our true selves, we’re more willing to take risks, confront our fears, and pursue personal development. This growth not only strengthens the bond between partners but also enriches the relationship with depth and meaning.

Based on your experience or research, what are the “Five Things You Need To Navigate Our Complicated Modern World To Find Love”? If you can, please share a story or an example for each.

1 . Self-Reflection: Take the time to understand yourself, your values, and your relationship goals. Reflect on past experiences to identify patterns, strengths, and areas for growth. For example, I once found myself repeatedly attracting partners who weren’t emotionally available. Through self-reflection, I realized that I needed to prioritize my own emotional well-being and seek out partners who could meet my needs.

2 . Open Communication: Honest and open communication is key to building trust and understanding in relationships. Be willing to express your thoughts, feelings, and needs authentically, and encourage your partner to do the same. I learned the importance of open communication during a disagreement with my partner. Instead of avoiding the issue, we had a candid conversation that ultimately strengthened our bond.

3 . Boundaries: Establish and maintain healthy boundaries to protect your emotional well-being and maintain respect in relationships. Clearly communicate your boundaries to your partner and be assertive in upholding them. I once struggled with boundary-setting in a relationship, which led to feelings of resentment and frustration. Learning to assert my boundaries helped me regain a sense of control and autonomy.

4 . Resilience: Love often involves facing challenges and setbacks. Cultivate resilience by embracing setbacks as opportunities for growth, practicing self-care, and seeking support from friends and family. I experienced a breakup that left me feeling heartbroken and lost. However, through resilience-building practices such as journaling, exercise, and spending time with loved ones, I was able to heal and emerge stronger than before.

5 . Flexibility: Be willing to adapt to changing circumstances and compromise in relationships. Flexibility allows for mutual understanding, collaboration, and growth. I learned the importance of flexibility when navigating a long-distance relationship. By remaining open-minded and flexible, my partner and I were able to find creative solutions to overcome the challenges of distance and maintain a strong connection.

Do you have any favorite books, podcasts, or resources related to this topic that you would recommend to our readers?

“Attached: The New Science of Adult Attachment and How It Can Help You Find — and Keep — Love” by Amir Levine and Rachel Heller — This book explores attachment theory and how understanding attachment styles can improve relationships.

“The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts” by Gary Chapman — A classic book that explores the concept of love languages and how understanding them can enhance communication and intimacy in relationships.

“Modern Romance” by Aziz Ansari and Eric Klinenberg — Comedian Aziz Ansari teams up with sociologist Eric Klinenberg to explore the challenges and nuances of modern dating in the digital age.

“Anxiously Attached: Becoming More Secure in Life and Love” by Jessica Baum is an excellent resource for individuals seeking to understand and navigate their anxiously attached attachment style. In this book, Jessica Baum draws upon her expertise as a licensed therapist to provide practical strategies and insights for developing greater security and resilience in relationships.

I would also add that Tiktok has been a great help for me as well. So much information can be found on the platform it’s definitely my favorite

You are a person of great influence. If you could start a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. 🙂

Look no further. Our Time Fixes Everything movement has just launched and we are thrilled about the buzz! The Time Fixes Everything movement breaks traditional boundaries to create a global community of like-minded souls. Through candid conversations, heartfelt storytelling, and genuine connections, I have cultivated a tribe of individuals united by a shared commitment to embracing vulnerability and transforming pain into power.

It has been going viral on TikTok, and our community is growing day-by-day, uniting people who believe vulnerability is not a weakness but a superpower — a gateway to deeper connections, greater empathy, and personal growth. Just check out our testimonials!

In our community, everyone’s story matters, and everyone’s voice is heard. Whether you’re navigating heartbreak, seeking personal growth, or simply craving connection, there’s a place for you here. Through virtual events, workshops, and online forums, we foster connections and provide a safe space for members to share, learn, and grow together. Together, we can create a ripple effect of healing and transformation in our lives and communities.

How can our readers further follow your work online?

You can find ALL of my information, links and projects to come on www.timefixeseverything.com

Thank you so much for sharing these important insights. We wish you continued success and good health!

Patrick Gaudet of Clicöt & ‘Time Fixes Everything’ On How To Navigate Our Complicated Modern World… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.