In our desire to feel significant, we fill roles. Over time, we put on lots of layers of who we think we should be. Roles that were about other people’s agenda.
As we grew up, we forgot to let go of their expectations. We never really realized we had a choice.
Over time, people expect you to act a certain way. Especially with your family and friends.
Maybe you were the black sheep in the family or the perfect one.
As screwed up as it sounds, we all fill roles that make up our family dynamic and they can be hard to break. Eventually, we take projected feelings of how others perceive us. We fill those roles even if they don’t make us happy.
The good news is by getting clarity on your brand from within, you can create a beacon for yourself of how you want to affect others and how you want to be perceived. At the end of the day, life is about how you relate with other people. It’s the relationship you have with yourself and others. So we want to project the most optimal and authentic version of ourselves.
About 15 years ago, I decided to go travel by myself through Europe with no set plans or agenda.
I was curious how I would show up in a place where no one knew me and in a completely different environment. No memories that would remind me of my past. If I could tell you anything about who I was as a child, it would be I was painfully shy. My most memorable childhood moment was the day I raised my hand in class and spoke aloud. I thought the world might end from hearing myself speak. And now th irony is that I help those some people break free to speak aloud.
I put myself in situations where I need to be resourceful and independent. And what I discovered was a more outgoing and adventurous version of me. I easily met new friends that invited to me to travel all over Europe.
What values do they embody?
What attributes about their personality do you admire?
There is a reason why you gravitate towards them. Part of their personality is authentic to you.
For example, I love the way that Audrey Hepburn carries herself with grace. She’s my brand lexicon. I love her style. I think of her especially when I’m in stressful situations or I need to ask for the business or at a first meeting. I think about Audry because I love the way she carries herself and makes people feel.
Who is that person for you? Think about a persona that feels authentic and inspires you.
Write me back and let me know what you discover.
