I know the worries, I am the same. I am currently forcing myself out of my comfort zone by in-can mixing. If I can get it down (I can do it, but I dislike(d) it so much that I am not adept enough at it), I’ll have to “treat” myself to a set of custom in-ears and use those. 29dB or so damping and both master and cue sound right on my ears. Due to the blocking of outside noise it wouldn’t have to be at such relatively high sound levels in-ear as it would have to be trying to do the booth/headphone thing.
As far as I understand, the hearing loss is a progressive situation, the onset of which starts way back. My tinnitus for example can have it’s roots back in my early twenties doing my professional residencies. So even being careful now it might still get worse.
Which brings me to the conclusion that yes we should avoid things that make matters worse, practice at levels that sound engineers use (typically 80dB-ish) and perhaps use modern (in-ear) technology and some other ways of mixing to be kind to our ears. Don’t go to any loud events (like concerts, clubs or even soccer/football matches) without hearing protection. If you drive a motorcycle or a convertible, use protection.
If you sleep with the windows open in a noisy (city) environment, put your plugs in at night.
In the week leading up to a gig, try to build some credit by wearing your plugs even during your regular day (some reports claim this will give you a bit more leeway during the loud night).
Learn (if you don’t already) to enjoy music in your car or at home at lower levels.
It’s no fun, I know, but all these things will ultimately help at least not aggravate the deterioration of your ears.
The good news is that the gigs you mention, like the weddings and a fashion show, do not require 110dB sound levels and in the case of a fashion show, it won’t run for 5-6 hours straight.
Hope that helps some.
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