You Are Your Best Brand

By Jerald Council, CouncilMag.com

The most important brand you own is you. And trust me, your brand is evolving each and every day. In fact, I believe your character can impact your personal brand positively or negatively. However, you can improve your brand each time you seek new experiences. These experiences sharpen your awareness and help shape the person you are today.

We are born as unique individuals with distinctive characteristics and personalities developed over time. This is what differentiates you from those who can be seen as your competitors. Think before you speak, because your words can influence your brand.

Self-worth is a valuable asset. Believe in your abilities and love who you are. Be a doer. Helping someone in need benefits them and increases your self-esteem. Showing loyalty to a cause reveals an act of kindness and builds your brand’s credibility.

I’ve always taught my three sons the value of self-worth.

From left to right: Nick, Jerald, Nate and Jerold

Find the right mindset. You must see yourself as a special individual. This may mean separating from those who think of you as less capable.

While in elementary school, one of my sons was called a racial slur during a classroom session. This was a shock and hurt him deeply. I told him words are just words until you put meaning to them. I said, you are special and your self-worth has more value that any words could.

Lastly, but most important, is observation. A picture is worth a thousand words. People watch you. They respond positively to a credible and confident image. That confidence affirms your identity. As your brand, there is an outer package that wraps all your distinct features, skills, passions and intellect together. Your overall look completes your brand, so it’s important to pay close attention to how you dress your product.

Your best you

Life experiences shape people’s beliefs, philosophies and perspectives differently. Nonetheless, you are your best brand. Treat yourself with the utmost care. Nourish your intellect, cultivate your character and push your creativity to be the best you. After all, you are the brand.