Olesija Saue

Competitive analysis is a powerful tool for differentiating your personal brand. By understanding what others in your field are doing, you can identify your unique strengths and areas where you can stand out. The key is to focus on the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of what you do.

Your personal personal brand dna- your strengths, your values, your passions, your style as well as your story, motivations, and the unique approaches you take in your work are aspects that cannot be replicated by others.

Start by researching peers and competitors in your industry. Note their branding strategies, communication style, and areas of expertise. Then, reflect on your own experiences and values. What drives you? How do your background and personal experiences shape your approach? This introspection will help you articulate a distinct narrative that resonates with your audience.

Emphasize your unique methods and insights. Maybe you have a novel approach to problem-solving, or you integrate diverse skills in a way that others don’t. Highlight these aspects in your branding materials and communications. This not only sets you apart but also showcases your value proposition in a way that’s authentically you.

Personal branding is not just about being different; it’s about being true to yourself and letting that authenticity shine through. This authenticity is your ultimate competitive advantage – it’s what makes you relatable and memorable in a crowded market.

Read more in Linkedin article.

Join me on a journey to building a global personal brand: https://olesija.ck.page/a33576a470

In my work, the most rewarding experience has been guiding established business owners and traditional CEOs as they venture into thought leadership, not just in their physical business circles but also in the online world. Irrespective of their industry, the transformation is remarkable—they experience a rapid increase in visibility and discover new opportunities.

Why does this happen?

The answer lies in the evolving expectations of their audience. Partners, clients, employees, and investors are no longer content with just hearing company news or business updates. They yearn to see these leaders more visibly, to understand their thoughts, values, and what they stand for on a deeper level. This shift towards a more personal connection is where the essence of personal branding shines through.

Personal branding in this context is not just about self-promotion; it’s about authentically representing oneself and one’s values in the digital space. For business leaders, this means:

• Building an authentic online presence that reflects their beliefs, leadership style, and vision. This authenticity attracts and resonates with their audience.
• Through strategic personal branding, leaders can amplify their voice and extend their reach beyond traditional boundaries, connecting with a broader audience.
• By sharing insights, stories, and perspectives, leaders can engage more deeply with stakeholders, fostering trust and loyalty.
• A well-positioned personal brand allows leaders to influence business decisions, broader industry trends, and social issues.

The Results? A Win-Win for All

As these leaders amplify their personal brands, they enhance their professional position and create a ripple effect of benefits. Their businesses gain from the increased visibility, while partners and clients feel more connected and aligned with their values. Employees and investors better understand the leader’s vision, building a stronger sense of trust and alignment with the company’s direction.

Personal branding for business leaders is more than just a strategic move; it’s about creating a legacy, a narrative that extends beyond business achievements to encompass their values, beliefs, and vision for the future.

Join me on a journey to building a global personal brand: https://olesija.ck.page/a33576a470

In the game of influence and personal branding, the board is set with pieces of various sizes and scopes. Like pawns on a chessboard, we each hold potential influence, with the reach of our impact akin to the strategic moves we make in our careers and personal lives. Each of us is an influencer.

However, the magnitude of our influence is as variable as the pieces on a chessboard, each with its unique power and movement.

As I prepare for tomorrow’s training, I wanted to share this thought with you.

Our influence is not static but dynamic and expansive. It grows with every interaction, every piece of content we share, and every connection we foster.

Personal branding is not about self-promotion but about the value you provide, the consistency of your message, and the compound impact.

Every chess piece, from the humble pawn to the commanding queen, plays a crucial role in the game’s outcome. Similarly, each individual has the potential to create a ripple effect with their personal brand. Whether you’re speaking to a dozen people or a thousand, the essence of your influence lies in the quality of your impact, not merely the quantity of your audience.

In tomorrow’s presentation, we’ll explore strategies for personal growth, professional development, and digital presence that can amplify our influence regardless of the size of our platform. I strongly believe that every story and voice matters and your personal brand can resonate far and wide with the right approach.

The question really is only: HOW BIG IMPACT DO YOU WANT TO HAVE?

Join me on a journey to building a global personal brand: https://olesija.ck.page/a33576a470

It’s not just about the task at hand but the passion and professionalism with which we execute it. Our personal brand sets the stage, but our enthusiasm and dedication ignite the real magic.

For me, work is about relationships, maximizing, and constantly redefining excellence. We create lasting business relationships by infusing our work with heart and expertise and genuinely caring about our customers. Personal branding works if you deliver on your promises and strive always to exceed expectations (Maximizer in me talking:) You might not get it perfect the first time, nor will it be perfect all the time. But if you keep this mindset of listening, caring, and constantly thinking- what else could be done, and how could we do better- the compound effect will be profound.

First impressions matter, your online presence matters. But what truly makes the difference is the passion with which we do our job and how we make people feel.

Add that touch of magic, and make every action count!

Join me on a journey to building a global personal brand: https://olesija.ck.page/a33576a470

The secret often lies in effective personal branding.

Every single one of us, from CEOs to entry-level employees, has the potential to harness this power. And the ripple effect is profound. As individuals grow their personal brands, the companies get more visibility, more credibility, and, most importantly, happy and engaged employees.

In the digital age, your personal brand isn’t just an asset; it’s a necessity. And the beauty? It leads to both individual growth and collective organizational success.

Did you know:

• Employee-shared content sees 8x more engagement
• Employee-shared content is shared 24x more than identical posts shared by official social media profiles
• Social media posts shared by employees have a 561%
• 92% are more likely to trust suggestions and recommendations from those they know than any advertising will do
• 76% are more likely to trust the content shared by a brand’s employees than the brand itself

Seems like a word of mouth on steroids?

But how do you get your employees to share?

The only whay that really work is help your people build their personal brands.

Join me on a journey to building a global personal brand: https://olesija.ck.page/a33576a470

Dive into how elevating YOUR brand can create a ripple effect of success for you and your organization.

The idea of personal branding, especially within a company’s ecosystem, often raises eyebrows. Many believe that personal branding might detract from or compete with the company’s brand. However, a more holistic view, backed by numerous real-world successes, suggests otherwise. Building one’s personal brand using a company’s platform can be mutually beneficial, creating a powerful synergy that promotes both individual and organizational growth.

Let’s look at why this approach is a win-win:

VISIBILITY

• For YOU: The company’s platform gives you an already established audience, making it easier to gain visibility and recognition. This can fast-track the growth of your personal brand recognition, leveraging company resources, events, and networks.
• For the Company: When an employee, especially one in a significant role, elevates their brand, they draw attention to the company, too. As they gain industry recognition, so does the company they’re associated with.

CREDIBILITY

• For YOU: Being associated with a reputable company brand can lend immense credibility to an individual. Your accomplishments and insights are often given more weight, as they’re perceived as being backed by the company’s reputation.
• For the Company: Having thought leaders, influencers, or recognized experts in their ranks enhances a company’s image. It demonstrates that the organization values expertise and fosters growth, making it attractive to clients, partners, and potential talent.

THOUGHT LEADERSHIP

• For YOU: The company platform can provide you with opportunities for to share your knowledge—be it through company blogs, webinars, or speaking opportunities. It solidifies your position as a thought leader on your subject.
• For the company: Thought leadership content boosts the company’s reputation, drives engagement, and positions the organization as an industry leader while also humanizing the brand.

NEW OPPORTUNITIES

• For You: A strong personal brand within a company can make you a magnet for opportunities, collaborations, and mentorship from both inside and outside the organization.
• For the company: When employees are encouraged to build their brands and subsequently succeed, it signals a supportive company culture. It helps attract top talent who value personal growth.

SKILL DEVELOPMENT

• For You: Personal branding requires developing various skills—from public speaking and content creation to networking. These skills serve your personal brand and enhance your professional capabilities.
• For the Company: People dedicated to self-improvement and personal branding often bring new skills back into the company. It can lead to innovative solutions, fresh perspectives, and a more dynamic work environment.

Join me on a journey to building a global personal brand: https://olesija.ck.page/a33576a470

Yet, amplifying your brand begins with something other than posting or commenting. It starts with clarity.

• Understand your goal: What’s the overarching mission you’re aiming for? Is it to be recognized as an industry thought leader? Or perhaps to build influential connections? Land new jobs or start your own business in the future? Knowing your endgame is half the battle won.
• Grasp your guiding values: Your personal brand should reflect your core beliefs and principles. These values act as the magnetic north, ensuring consistency and authenticity in your branding journey.
• Know Your Industry Inside Out: A deep understanding of the industry landscape is crucial to positioning yourself effectively. What gaps exist? Where can you carve a niche that’s both unique to you and valuable to the industry?
• Strategically align with your company message. This is where the magic happens. Find the sweet spot where your personal branding objectives meet with your company’s goals. It’s a win-win when your message amplifies your brand and serves your company’s mission.

A personal brand isn’t just about humble bragging. It’s about elevation in sync with the organization you’re a part of. When done right, personal branding becomes a powerful strategy, fueling both individual and corporate growth.

Join me on a journey to building a global personal brand: https://olesija.ck.page/a33576a470

…Do you ever find yourself procrastinating?
I’ve noticed that when it comes to making my dreams a reality, that’s when my procrastination skills truly shine. But why put off what could potentially change our lives for the better?

I’ve discovered two strategies that help kick me into gear:

Combine Goals: I brainstorm ideas that excite and scare me simultaneously—projects that help me achieve multiple goals at once, creating a domino effect. It’s about finding a game worth playing. And making it FUN.

Accountability: I make my goals known, making myself accountable not just to me but to as many people as possible. Visibility matters:) And the fear of public humiliation by not following through pushes you forward through the I don’t feel like doing x…

I have an ambitious dream: to grow my personal brand internationally on a scale that’s both terrifying and exhilarating. This challenge brings all my inner dragons to the forefront, attempting to dissuade me. I’ve been procrastinating on it for quiet some time already- I’m too busy, I don’t have time, who am I.. the list goes on..

I also struggle with consistency when it comes to my email list, I fail to create a content plan for myself, I have thought about launching my podcast for years…again, the list goes on..

But what if I turned this into a game, an experiment that combines all the pieces of the puzzle and shares every step of my journey, including the ups and downs? My hypothesis: In today’s digital era, becoming an internationally recognized expert in just one year is possible and doable. And I have a plan which I believe is a win-win on multiple levels

To prevent myself from backing out, I’ve made a commitment: starting April 1st, I’ll be sharing my journey weekly in my newsletter, employing the “I.T.S F.U.N T.O B.RA.N.D M.E” methodology. I’ll share everything—my victories, my setbacks, and the exact steps you can apply to your own brand-building. Im ready to be vulnerable, to take tons of imperfect baby steps. I want to learn, grow, and, most importantly, allow myself to play. Let’s see where it takes me, but looking back at my experience, I’ve never regretted the crazy things I’ve committed to. Just the one’s I’ve never dared to try.

If you’re curious about growing your personal brand on a global scale, I invite you to follow me on this adventure. Will I succeed, or what will I learn? We’ll find out on April 1, 2025.

I started to notice that with every passing hour, it more and more dims my inner light, skewing my perspective and eroding the joy and passion I usually feel towards my work.

So today, in between meetings, instead of tackling another “elephant” on my list, I took a brief escape to the park near my office. A short walk under the autumn sun became an unexpected catalyst for change. Surrounded by the symphony of rustling leaves and embraced by the golden warmth of the season, I was enveloped in a moment of profound reflection. As I sat, absorbing the distant hum of the city and the immediate sounds of nature, the weight of the to-do list began to lift. Not because its demands had lessened but because my inner state had transformed.

With my inner sun reignited, the mountain of tasks before me transformed into exciting challenges. What had before appeared as a burden now seems like intriguing puzzles awaiting my touch. Each item on the list shifted from an obligation to an opportunity.

This momentary pause under the autumn sun served as a powerful and much-needed reminder of the intimate connection between our inner state and our external reality. The world around us may remain unchanged, with its demands and pressures constant, but how we perceive and interact with it can be dynamically altered by our internal well-being.

The to-do list remains, but its nature has changed for me. Through a shift in perspective and a reconnection with my inner essence, even the most formidable tasks took on a new light. They became doable and fun again.

Life’s beauty isn’t just in the grand milestones or immense challenges but also in these fleeting moments of connection and introspection. There is tremendous value in pausing, genuinely observing, and diving deep into the rhythm of life.

Have a sunny weekend, and take time for yourself because you can’t pour from an empty cup.

I’m super excited. This week, the “Digital YOU” program started, and wow, how many amazing personalities, stories, insights and perspectives are waiting to be shared.

It brings smile to my face every time I see a post in my feed from a person, who just couple of months ago was reluctant ,doubted, feared, or didn’t know what to share or how to share — now being consistently present with valuable insights, engaging ideas, and powerful stories.

I can’t wait to see the” Digital You” participants getting clarity on their brands and their voice, befriending their digital twins and stepping on a digital stage and staying there for the year to come. This is my main intention- to change the paradigm and and make a dounting task – I have to post smth, I must be visible into a fun and exciting posibility to discover and amplify our authentic voices in a space that once felt foreign and intimidating. For me, it is about facilitating the transition from daunting to doable, from feared to fun, because I.T.S. F.U.N. T.O. B.R.A.N.D. M.E !

In my opinion, the digital landscape has a notable gap — a space rich with potential yet conspicuously missing the powerful insights of numerous professionals. Many impactful brands and thought leaders in the physical realm remain unheard and unseen in the vast digital expanse. Years of experience and practical knowledge is not shared, not learnt from, not expanded upon. But here lies our immense opportunity.

There’s an eager audience waiting to be inspired by each and everyones journey.

Your story, insights, and brand have the unmatched power to influence, inspire, and reshape narratives in unimaginable ways. There’s a world out there hungry for the insights and stories that only YOU can share. If you’ve ever felt hesitant about sharing online, remember: your perspective is invaluable, your experiences are unique, and your voice can make a difference. Don’t wait for the perfect moment or the conclusion of your hero’s journey to share your story. The real magic happens when you take that first, intimidating step. You’ll never truly know what you’re capable of until then. Furthermore, you’ll never discover who needs to hear YOUR story at this precise moment until you decide to share it.

I want you to invite to celebrate every new voice, every professional who shares their invaluable insights. Dont scroll by- stop, react and engage!

They are built around humans' need to connect and share stories. One of the key motivators for companies to venture into this space is the opportunity to communicate directly with various target groups.

Yet people always prefer interacting with others, not faceless corporations. So, who better to narrate the company stories than the employees themselves? Their experiences, thoughts, and insights reflect their personal growth and, if aligned with the overall communication strategy, help build the brand's visibility, credibility, and relatability.

The entire organization benefits when employees are trained and encouraged to understand and nurture their brands. Their networks expand, their influence grows, and the company's vision, mission, and DNA reach wider audiences through diverse humab voices.

The true impact is born only where an employee's knowledge, clients' needs, and business objectives intersect. Incorporating employees' personal branding into corporate communication isn't just a strategy; it's a mindset shift. It acknowledges that every employee is a unique brand ambassador with a distinctive voice, personal goals, and aspirations. When they resonate with the organizational culture and values, their individual stories, amplified by personal branding, carry unmatched weight. By sharing their experiences, employees promote the company and pave the way for their own development and career opportunities. It's a win-win solution, and it works.

Brand communication is no longer a one-way monologue but multiple communications, happening simultaneously in different formats on different platforms. Every post, every tweet, every story matters. It is impossible to control it.

So why not inspire, educate, and empower employees so that they consciously work for your brand rather than inadvertently against it? After all, they aren't just employees; they're the souls and hearts of the company.

Drawing from Carl Jung's archetype theory, it's evident that while archetypes can guide our branding, only humans can fill it with genuine warmth and relatability. Because, in the end, only humans can humanize a brand, breathing life and authenticity into it.

A few years back, I was at this crossroads. I knew how to present myself as a marketer, but something felt out of place. I had the tools to package myself effectively, but it wasn’t working.

I started to look for answers, and I found that everybody talked about authenticity. “Be authentic” is still the most popular advice in the personal branding space.

But I couldn’t understand- “How do you do authentic?” Amidst the different roles, desires, and expectations, I couldn’t understand. Who am I? And what do I want? It felt like a puzzle with a missing piece.

This identity crisis took me on a journey to dive deep into personal branding, write a book on the subject, immerse myself in coaching, and unravel the intricacies of NLP.

On this journey, I came across an acronym, and all the pieces started to fall into place :

F. Find out who you are
U.Understand what you want
N. Now go and be and do it

Authenticity isn’t merely a facade; it’s a deep-rooted understanding and acceptance of our true selves. When we understand ourselves and our deepest desires, we find what brings us Fun and Joy. We find what makes us feel truly alive. This essence of aliveness and being yourself makes us authentic and emotionally attracts others.

Drawing a parallel, consider the difference between cats and dogs. While dogs often look outside for validation, cats symbolize self-sufficiency and independence. They act as they wish, always staying true to their nature.

Laetitia Casta’s insightful words, “Real beauty is to be true to oneself,” resonate with this sentiment. True power lies not in seeking external validation but in introspection and self-acceptance.

Moreover, a magical shift occurs once we embrace this authenticity and start doing what makes us feel ALIVE. We begin to magnetize the right people, drawing in our tribe and the customers who genuinely resonate with our essence. Just like this cat decided to take part in our photoshoot because we were having FUN

What is authenticity to you?

I work as a (………fill the blanks), but I’m also a (……..fill the blanks) and a (……..fill the blanks), and I have a hobby (……..fill the blanks), that I would like to become a business. I work for this company but also have my own business (multiple businesses). But all of them are so unrelated- how can I build a personal brand? How many brands do I need?

Here is where many people get it wrong. Personal branding isn’t a mere collection of hats we wear. It’s not solely about the different roles or interests we have. It’s deeper than that. It’s about our unique personal brand DNA, the core of who we are. And just like there is only one YOU, there should be only one PERSONAL BRAND.

Here is the secret. Seemingly unrelated disciplines can create the most beautiful symphonies. It’s the intersections of our diverse passions that make us unique.

Don’t just focus on the ‘what’ you do. Dive deep into the ‘how’ and ‘why’. When you do, all the ‘whats’ align perfectly. Weave your varied experiences into a narrative that resonates, offering unexpected value. Your unique value proposition that NOONE can copy is rooted in your personal brand DNA- a unique mix of your strengths, values, passions, why, style, and story.

That’s the essence of personal branding: a fusion of authenticity, varied experiences, and a genuine desire to make an impact.

Remember, it’s not the multitude of hats you wear but the unique way you wear them.

Everyone seems to be on the “build your personal brand” bandwagon. Surely, you’ve scrolled past posts boasting, “How I gained XX followers in XX days!” But behind these attention-grabbing numbers is the foundational essence that truly elevates a brand: its intrinsic Personal Brand DNA.

Personal Brand vs. Personal Brand DNA: Consider them as the reputation and the essence of your brand.

Your Personal Brand is the reputation that precedes you. It’s what people know about you before you even enter the room. Crafted through curated content, nurtured networks, and a cultivated image, it’s about creating an aura that, when you finally step into a room, gives others the feeling they’ve known you forever. And if your real-life interactions then either match or surpass these expectations, that’s when you know your personal brand is truly working in your favor.

In contrast, the Personal Brand DNA is that silent, soulful force that drives your brand from the inside. It’s the passions that fuel you, the values that guide you, and the unique essence that’s unmistakably you. It’s not a facade, not a mask, not a role—it’s the most authentic reflection of who you are, your brand’s very soul.

It’s imperative to strike a balance. An online persona that doesn’t align with your real-world self risks damaging your credibility. Authenticity is the game: if your online brand claims expertise, ensure that you truly embody it in person.

In essence, while your strong personal brand is the magnetic force drawing people to you, your personal brand DNA ensures that magnetism is genuine. Together, they create a brand that’s influential and deeply authentic.

While your personal brand is the reputation that precedes you, the DNA encapsulates the unique essence that underpins that reputation. Let’s delve a little deeper.

Your personal brand DNA isn’t something you craft overnight. It’s the distilled essence of your experiences, strengths, values, passions, and narrative. It’s the mosaic of intangible elements that make you, YOU. When you understand your personal brand DNA, you’re not just aligning with your authenticity; you’re living it. It ensures you’re not lost in the crowd but stand out in your authentic brilliance.

Personal Brand DNA is a combination of:

• Your Experiences: Your past shapes your present. Whether it’s a challenging project, a pivotal career shift, or a mentor who altered your trajectory, your experiences are invaluable. They bring depth and dimension to your brand.
• Your Strengths: These are your superpowers. While two people might have the same skill, how each leverages that skill can differ greatly. It’s about the unique flavor you bring to the table.
• Your Values: The compass that directs your actions, decisions, and, ultimately, your brand. They’re non-negotiable and are often the factors that resonate most with your audience.
• Your Story: Every hero has a story. How you’ve navigated your journey, the highs, the lows, the lessons – these are the chapters of your unique narrative.
• Your Passion: What sets your soul alight? This burning energy often becomes the most magnetic part of your personal brand.
• Your Style: This is your unique flair, the unmistakable essence that permeates everything you do. Whether you’re analytical or creative, reserved or exuberant, your style differentiates how you approach challenges and showcase solutions.

NB! The most compelling brand positioning often arises from connecting seemingly unrelated dots. They blend diverse facets of your brand into a cohesive, captivating whole. And when done right, they’re what make you unmistakably memorable in a sea of sameness.

So, take a moment. Reflect, introspect, and connect with your DNA. It’s the foundation upon which authentic brands are built. And remember, in a world of replicas, there’s only one YOU.

•  “Let’s have a quick discussion! How are you, [Your Name]? I have a quick question: how are you doing x and how much does it cost you?”
•  “Hi [Name], straight to it: We’re on a mission to revolutionize [specific industry or problem]. Fancy a quick chat?”
•  “Hey [Name], no fluff – I believe our [product/service] can bring value to [their company/role]. Mind if we discuss it?”
• “Hello [Name], quick one: We’re working on something groundbreaking. Thoughts on a call?”
• The list goes on…

The answer to all of them – NO I DON’T

And my favorite ending: Trust me- it will be worth your time. No, I don’t trust you. Because I don’t know you. And I see, that not only don’t you know me either, but you also have no interest in getting to know me either. How do I know? Because you didn’t even take a moment to look up what exactly I do and make it relevant.

LinkedIn isn’t Tinder-you can’t just swipe right on everyone hoping for a match. It’s about fostering genuine professional relationships. Understand their role, industry, and challenges before sending a message. Be more personalized, more genuine, more YOU.

And most importantly- don’t pitch the minute your connection request is accepted. Take time to build relationships and your credibility. Get me to know you, get me to like you, get me to trust you first.

Every message sent is a reflection of your personal brand. So, next time you’re about to hit send, ask yourself: Am I swiping right or truly connecting?

Personal branding isn’t about ‘selling’ yourself. IT IS NOT ABOUT YOU. It’s about positioning yourself as a visible and credible resource for those who could genuinely benefit from your expertise and experience. IT IS ABOUT THOSE YOU CAN HELP.

Here’s how to build a magnetic personal brand without feeling ‘salesy’:

• Value first: Always lead with the value you can offer. What problems can you solve? How can you serve your audience? Speak to their needs, not just your achievements.
• Share stories, not just services: Share your journey, your challenges, and your triumphs. Let people get to know and connect with the real you.
• Engage: Building a brand is a two-way street and true branding is conversational. Foster dialogue, be genuinely responsive and immerse in building relations. To be interesting, be interested.
• Seek feedback: Understand your audience’s perceptions. Regularly ask for feedback and be open to adapting. Your brand should evolve as you and your audience do.
• Collaborate: Join forces with others. This expands your reach and adds a layer of credibility to your brand.

Remember, when you change your perspective from ‘selling’ to ‘helping’, you attract those who genuinely need and value your offerings. And that’s when the magic happens. Your personal brand becomes not just about you but about the impact you create.

What is your relationship with selling?

It might not be WHAT you’re saying, but WHERE you’re coming from.

In our rapidly changing digital age, the buzz about ‘personal branding’ often orbits around aesthetics, visibility, and outreach. Strategies, tacktics and algorithm hacks are all great. But a core element that truly determines the potency of any brand is inner Alignment.

Inner alignment is akin to the foundation of a building. It ensures the integrity, stability, and authenticity of everything constructed above it. Without this foundational alignment, the edifice – no matter how grand – is susceptible to crumbling.

Conflicting Values:
Imagine sailing a boat with multiple captains, each having their own compass pointing in different directions. Without a unified direction, the journey is chaotic, strenuous, and often unfulfilling. Similarly, when our internal values conflict, our personal brand lacks consistency, resonance, and power.

Unclear Outcomes:
A brand without a clear outcome is like an archer without a target. You may have the best bow and arrows, but where do you aim? Clarity in intention and purpose ensures that every piece of content, every interaction, and every decision amplifies the brand’s voice and mission.

Internal Picture:
Your internal picture or self-image acts as the control center for your external actions. A blurred or distorted internal picture can mislead your branding efforts. However, a clear, positive, and aligned self-image ensures you project your authentic self, making genuine connections and building lasting trust.

Inner alignment is not just about ensuring external success; it’s about experiencing internal peace, clarity, and direction. In the vast sea of personal branding, those rooted in inner alignment stand out and enjoy the journey, making impactful waves as they sail.

Before you look outward, look inward. As Carl Jung said:” Your visions will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes. “

Align your values, clear your vision, and sharpen your internal image. The harmony within will then radiate outward, creating a personal brand that is both compelling and authentic.

Personal branding isn’t just about the external image we portray, but it’s deeply intertwined with our internal beliefs, fears, and aspirations. And most importantly- our inner state.

There are many techniques to change our state, but the quickest and easiest is to change our physiology. You see, our body and mind are deeply interconnected. The way you position your body or control your breath can drastically affect your emotional and mental state. Ever noticed how slouching can make you feel lethargic or down while standing tall boosts your confidence?

Here’s how you can quickly change psyciology to change your state and boost your brand:
First:

• Deep Breathing: Simple, yet powerful. It calms the mind and helps center you.
• Focusing on what you see, hear, and feel gets you out of the mind and into the body.
• Power Pose: Adopt a stance of confidence. Stand tall, shoulders back, chest out. This can increase feelings of power and assurance in mere minutes.
• Dynamic Movement: Jumping jacks, a quick walk, or even a short dance break can elevate mood and energy. I love to write posts and articles after physical exercise and the best ones come after hanging upside down for an hour on a pole:)
• Smiling: Even if you have to force it initially, the act of smiling can genuinely enhance your mood. Just hold a pen with your teeth for 5 minutes and see what happens. You will be surprised.
• Eye Positioning: Looking up can stimulate visual recall and creativity, while looking down can help with introspection and accessing feelings.

Second:

• Reframing Negative Thoughts: Replace every negative self-talk like “I can’t do this” with empowering questions such as “How can I make this work?” “What if my message helped even one person?”

• Visualization for Clear Messaging: Visualize your brand’s core message before you do anything. See it, feel it, believe it. The more evident it is in your mind, the more apparent it will be to your audience. Imagine what you would want people who read your message to see, hear, and feel.

• Metamodel Questions for Clarity: When crafting your brand message, ask yourself expansive questions. Instead of “Do people want this?”, ask “How can I ensure that what I say aligns with my audience’s needs?”” How specifically can my post help my reader”?

Third: Now write/speak from the heart; it never lies. And it is the only way to reach the hearts of your listeners.

Remember, a strong personal brand is built from the inside out and the only one who can truly change your life is the one you see in the mirror.

p.s. this picture is taken at a MARIMO FASHION boutique in Tallinn. Follow the founder and lead designer Mariliis Pikkar for tips on how to inspire your confidence through fashion.

Imagine being backstage at a conference. You're surrounded by anticipation, the hum of preparation, and a touch of nervous excitement. The audience is out there, waiting. But until you take that bold step onto the stage, the value remains hidden, the impact unmade.

In the digital realm, it's not all that different. Many of us linger in the digital "backstage," hesitant to make our presence known. We worry about judgment, question our worth, and grapple with imposter syndrome.

But here's the thing: Just like on a physical stage, nothing truly happens until you leave the backstage of invisibility. Your unique voice, your experiences, and your perspective have the power to inspire and empower others. Your digital presence can be a catalyst for change.

The fear of visibility is a common, almost universal sensation most of us experience when we contemplate stepping onto the virtual stage. It's natural to feel this -it's a sign that you're pushing your boundaries and venturing into the unknown territory of personal growth. This fear can manifest in several ways:

1. Judgment: The concern that others will criticize your online presence and your thoughts can be paralyzing.
2. Imposter Syndrome: You might question whether you're truly qualified or deserve the attention and recognition you seek.
3. The Unknown: The uncertainty of how your content will be received, who will engage with it, or where it might lead can trigger anxiety.

However, here's the essential truth: Acknowledging this fear is the first crucial step towards overcoming it. It's a testament to your courage and resilience. Remember that even the most successful individuals started somewhere, often in the same place you find yourself today.

They, too, had to grapple with their fears and insecurities. But what set them apart was their determination to forge ahead despite these concerns.
They embraced the discomfort because they knew that growth and success lay on the other side of fear.

They understood that every step taken, every post shared, and every connection made was a step towards personal and professional development.

So, if you're standing at the threshold of visibility, remember that your fear is not a sign of weakness but a sign of your readiness to evolve. It's a signal that you're on the cusp of something transformative. Embrace that fear, acknowledge it, and use it as a source of motivation.

As you step onto the virtual stage and share your unique voice with the world, you'll discover opportunities you never knew you had.

And in doing so, you'll inspire others to do the same.

A lot of focus in personal branding is on choosing the right channels, finding the quick strategy, refining the messages- all the “packaging” staff. And yes, it is important. However, the real catalyst for a magnetic personal brand isn’t your carefully designed logo or your polished elevator pitch; it’s something far deeper. Your inner state—your mental, emotional, and physical well-being—fuels your brand much like rocket fuel propels a spacecraft.

Authenticity: Your personal brand thrives on genuineness. When you’re in a balanced state, authenticity isn’t a strategy; it’s a natural expression. Its your essence that shines through- a beautiful reflection of who you truly are. And people can sense when you’re genuinely passionate about what you do, and that builds trust like nothing else. When your inner state is harmonious, you exude authenticity. And authenticity sets you apart in a crowded marketplace of ideas and influences.

Consistency: Your inner state is the autopilot that guides your brand. A fluctuating state can divert you into inconsistency, whereas a stable state ensures you stay the course toward success.

Emotional Resonance: Your inner state sets the emotional frequency of your brand. Just like a DJ perfectly tunes into the mood of the crowd, a positive state ensures your brand resonates deeply with your audience.

Communication: Your inner state affects the clarity and effectiveness of your brand’s voice. A calm and collected state enables you to communicate in a manner that is not just heard, but deeply felt.

Resilience & adaptability: Building a brand is a marathon, not a sprint. Your inner state acts as your endurance trainer, determining how quickly you recover from setbacks and how smoothly you pivot when circumstances demand it.

Networking: Your inner state is the silent partner in every business relationship you cultivate. A positive state doesn’t just create opportunities; it attracts like-minded individuals and enriches partnerships.

Your inner state acts as a magnet that can either attract or repel. The more aligned and harmonious your inner state, the more influential and impactful your message can become. So instead of forcing yourself to post for the sake of posting, change your state first and write from the heart. It will know what and how to say.

p.s. Neuro-linguistic programming has incredible tools that change your state and thus literally change how you see the world and your role in it. So if you’re tired of running in circles, dealing with the same challenges over and over again, and you’re ready for a real breakthrough, I invite you to explore what NLP coaching has to offer. Feel free to write to me.

• I don’t want to sell myself …
• I don’t want to package myself as a product or humblebrag…
• I’m not sure I have anything valuable enough to ‘sell.
• I don’t know how to sell myself. I’m not a marketer or salesperson.
• How can I sell if I don’t know what makes me special?
• Putting myself out there, marketing myself, or networking makes me anxious and uncomfortable.

The list goes on. And it stops amazingly gifted and talented people from thriving and making a true impact.

It’s not about ‘selling’ yourself. It’s not about learning new marketing tricks and tips. And it’s not about creating a facade but recognizing and embracing your authentic self.

It’s about understanding & owning your unique value and sharing it with the world.

You see, you DON’T need to create a personal brand – you already have one, whether you know it or not.

The real challenge is understanding that brand and presenting it in a way that your digital personal brand works FOR you, not AGAINST you.

A successful brand is an AUTHENTIC one.

Authenticity isn’t something you create, build, or copy; it’s about knowing and accepting yourself just the way you are – both strengths and weaknesses, successes and failures. It’s about letting your uniqueness shine, and your voice be heard.

Personal branding is SO MUCH MORE than just packaging – what to post, how to post, where to post. It’s about getting to know and falling in love with the luxury product – YOU.

Here’s the key: Once you understand that you are a luxury product worthy of admiration and respect and grasp that you have a value that ONLY YOU can give, something extraordinary happens. You stop being afraid of “selling” yourself. Instead, you take responsibility to be visible to those who might benefit from your unique gifts and story.

This is how you sell without selling.

Here’s what true personal branding entails:

• Self-acceptance: Embrace your entirety, including strengths and flaws.
• Uniqueness: Your distinct voice, style, values, and passions are your superpowers.
• Authenticity: Align with your real self, and let your authenticity shine.
• Value Recognition: Understand your unique value and don’t be afraid to share it.
• Responsibility: Be visible to those who can benefit from your unique gifts.