Over the last decade we have seen a shift in the prominence of small businesses, entrepreneurs and creators.
The truth is that although major corporations are still key players in the game, there has been a renaissance of the “mom & pop” business model - with a twist. Social media has broadened reach while giving people from all over the world access and opportunity like never before; at an accelerated rate. This phenomenon is the cross-section of human psychology and authentic advertising.
If you’ve recently awakened to the idea of personal branding and investing in yourself, keep reading for the recipe to making that a reality. Follow these 8 tips for creating and growing your personal brand:
1. TAKE A CLASS OR WORKSHOP.
If something piques your interest, it’s calling you for a reason. Follow that and invest into some deeper learning on the subject with a class or workshop. As humans, we absorb information really well when someone explains it to us and connecting with new people is always going to level you up. Whether you decide to become an expert on the topic or you use the knowledge in less direct ways, it will sharpen your way of being and give you that edge regardless of how you choose to apply it.
2. LEARN FROM OTHERS BUT ONLY COMPETE AGAINST YOURSELF.
There is a Japanese term from Zen Buddhism called shoshin which means “beginner’s” mind. It refers to being open, eager and lacking preconceptions when studying a subject. Being the forever student is a key factor in leveling up that sometimes gets thrown away by the ego. With that in mind, everyone that comes our way is a teacher, whether they realize it or not. If we can apply shoshin to our interactions, connections and interpersonal communication we may very well unlock a secret power. Imagine using neuroplasticity for all that it can do for us. When we think of the brains of babies and children, we draw a parallel to that of a sponge, because they absorb everything with little to no filters. Now, combine that with your power of discernment; you will be unstoppable and you will change lives. So let’s raise the bar even higher, there is a beautiful concept of “never resting on your laurels” which means to always strive for the biggest and best version of yourself no matter what accomplishments, accolades or level of success that you achieve. You are everywhere you go, so make sure the current version of yourself is stepping up to your vision.
3. HIRE A BUSINESS COACH OR CONSULTANT.
Every master was once a student, and true masters never stop being the student. Business coaches and consultants are strategy machines that work with belief systems to reintegrate our unique signatures without all the unnecessary baggage that slows us down. Regardless of how well you are doing, a different perspective will always expand the ceiling on a micro and macro level. That investment will pay in dividends and in ways we may not be able to fully conceive yet.
4. READ BOOKS, WATCH YOUTUBE, LISTEN to PODCASTS.
There are infinite ways to expand your perspective and skillset. Find a few creators you resonate with and weave them into your weekly schedule. The more we can stay in a growth mindset, the faster we will evolve and move on to being the grandest version of ourselves. Once you have integrated the knowledge, share it with your network and witness the domino effect unfold.
5. BE GRATEFUL AND RECOGNIZE YOUR WORTH.
Just like anything else, gratitude is a practice and the more we show up for it, the more it becomes a default. Practicing consistent gratitude actually rewires neural pathways and creates space for new possibilities. Self worth is also a practice that is strengthened with consistency. Just like training a muscle or a puppy, it takes dedication to refine but once you find your baseline, it’s all about maintenance. Knowing your worth will not only set you apart in the sea of creators but it will also empower you to walk in stride and set your prices at what you deserve.
6. FIND YOUR TRUE INTENTION BEFORE YOUR RESOLVE TO DO SOMETHING.
Intention is the secret force behind where energy moves. When you know what you want and focus it through a lens of integrity it will create a lasting result. Once your foundation is clearly set, it will be easy to return to your “why”; which helps you push through the inevitable walls of growing any successful brand. This is also what keeps your integrity in check and your authenticity shining through.
7. FOLLOW YOUR PASSION.
This sentiment is cliche for a reason. It works! We are here on Earth to be creators and how we spend our time matters. Following your passion is a powerful way to break out of the monotony of the concept of “work”. It will reframe the idea entirely and will magnetize abundance in all aspects of life. When we are magnetic - in the very literal sense of the word- we are actually more attractive. Passion is what carries us through the mundane aspects of life; especially when we can feel burned out, uninspired and unmotivated.
8. KEEP GOING & NEVER GIVE UP.
There is a reason why they say consistency is key. Anything that lasts, is built over time and it’s important to remember that, when the going gets tough. Any successful brand, entrepreneur, and business did not just happen overnight so keep your head down and go for it. Most of the success stories we are witnessing, like Apple, Whole Foods, DELL, Starbucks, Forever 21 and Walmart (to name a few) went through intense transformations and often had to rise from the ashes to be where they are today. It doesn’t actually matter how many times you fail, it matters how you are able to bounce back. Being adaptable, having a thick skin and being creative are key pillars to achieving greatness. Keep going and never give up!
If you’ve found any and all of this at all helpful, check back in on all things personal branding, marketing and lifestyle. To save a condensed version of this blog, check out my Instagram post: HOW TO DEVELOP A PERSONAL BRAND. Cheers!
Much love,
Noro.