I remember a few years back after a birthday taking the time to say, “thank you” on Facebook and sharing a memory that I had with each and every person that wished me a Happy Birthday. In the age of social media, where more relationships are being started then one would like to believe, I used to know everyone on my FB list personally. That is not true anymore, but I can honestly say that I have met so many wonderful people and heard plenty of amazing stories that have inspired me each and every year.
Hitting the age of 59, I took some time to reflect on where I am at, and where am I heading. I consider myself very shy and an introvert, but I obviously love to get involved with projects and communities. Coke and Pepsi like to influence others with advertising and marketing as they build their brand and attempt to sway people to buy what they are selling. But we too have a “Brand” to build: Ourselves.
We have to decide what it is we are promoting though. For many of us, we struggle to promote what we believe as we don’t want to force what may be a tricky subject to others. Some don’t care how they influence others. Maybe it’s faith in Jesus, or maybe a family atmosphere, or education. Perhaps you promote your culture or a happy go lucky style. Regardless of what it is, people are watching. It might be our kids, it might be our parents, or significant other or maybe, a potential significant other. Your coworkers and neighbors watch as well. We all have influence over others and how we use that influence is up to us. It’s a responsibility that should not be taken lightly.
We all have let a few people down from time to time and we can only say sorry and that we will try harder. We are human but that doesn’t always bring the trust back or take the sting away from those we hurt. You can also offer to help, play moderator or suggest a better pathway. Life is full of choices and they will make theirs. So as I build my “Brand”, I hope that many of you will pay closer attention to the brand that you build and realize, yes you do influence others with the way you act, the decisions you make and the goals you strive for. But ask yourself, what exactly is it you’re promoting? And then ask, are you putting your passion into (place your name here) to get the results you want and how are you influencing others with who you are? Lastly, are you helping to make those around you better?
Thanks again for all the love on my birthday – off my soapbox.
