As I emphatically searched for my “quote of the week” I came across an old adage by Albert Einstein that inspired profound thinking and reflection. Mr. Einstein stated, Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value. For me, it resonated deeply within and spoke on so many levels! Sometimes one may get so focused on what we identify as success that our personal brands may unexpectedly lose value along the way. Maybe not intentionally, but nevertheless it happens. I then asked myself, is my brand valuable? What will be the caliber of my contribution in this lifetime? No… not monetary value, but of true substance? Who will I help when I am no longer here? How will my legacy live on?

Because your brand carries weight and influence, it’s important that you treat it as your most valuable asset. It’s important to understand that your merit manifests through your purpose! You must commit to cultivating who you are, who you want to be, and how great you are perceived to be. I wholeheartedly agree with award-winning branding consultant Simon Mainwaring: If a brand genuinely wants to make a social contribution, it should start with who you are, not what you do. For only when a brand has defined itself and its core values can it identify causes or social responsibility initiatives that are in alignment with its authentic brand story.

Visibility. Authenticity. Loyalty. Understanding. Excellence.

All of these characteristics are key to revealing your true value as it relates to your purpose! You must exhibit these factors in order to flourish! Always Remember: Your brand is a gateway to your true work. You know you are here to do something – to create something or help others in some way. The question is, how can you set up your life and work so that you can actually do it? The answer lies in your brand identity. When you create a compelling brand, you attract people who want the promise of your brand – which you deliver (D. Buck).

Make sure your brand always carries undeniable value.

By Dr. Avis Foley

Co-Publisher, Purpose Weekly