When people think about you what do they think of? What do they remember?

Last summer, I reconnected with part of the church community I served as pastor for ten years in the Boston area. SO, SOOO good to reconnect with them!

However, I did learn some of the things they remembered from the MANY, MANY sermons I preached between 1991 and 2001.

"Yeah, who can forget that sermon you preached where you talked about the "Big But Of Easter!"

Yep, in all those years, they remember one sermon where I was actually talking about the "resurrection of Jesus" My choice of words made it unforgettable... I guess??

So, truly much of what we say, do and want others to hear is pretty forgettable. Just the truth, right?

So, what about YOU really should be memorable? What about YOU do you want people to think of when they think of you?

So, what about YOU really should be memorable? What about you do you want people to think of when they think of you?

When it comes to putting ourselves out there in business, sales, job-seeking, most of us have a way of just blending in...becoming unremarkable, un-memorable or unbelievable. Why our own "big buts" stick way, way out...

• "I'd love to influence more people, BUT I'm not sure how!"

• "I know I'd be great at doing that, BUT I just don't have the time!"

• "I've dreamed of doing that for years, BUT I don't have the money!"

• That's what I'd want, BUT I don't know what I really have to offer that's unique!

• "I see huge needs and opportunity, BUT I don't know how to market what I have to offer!"

Got some big "buts?"

Please know: Everyone loses when these Big Buts win! You and others you might serve.

So, what can we do to make sure the "Big Buts" don't win the day?

I'd like to suggest one of the most important steps to take is to really, I mean REALLY know and communicate your authentic brand. Get it so crystal clear you can't help but share the value you have to offer so others "get it!" And typically pay you for it!

So, what is your personal brand?

Its being able to fully 1. Identify and 2. Communicate what makes YOU unique, different and relevant to those you serve or want to serve. It's really understanding what sets you apart in identity, gifts, skills, passions and values so you use that information to set yourself apart - to then reach your target audience BECAUSE THEY NEED YOU!!

Your brand makes you stand out. It's the real you identified to the real world.

[cryout-pullquote s the real you identified to the real world[/cryout-pullquote]

and why it really matters...

If you consider the true you...the thriving you.. you God had in mind when He created you...

1. Picture yourself as an animal. What animal are you? (What are the characteristics of that animal?)

2. Picture yourself as a car. What kind of car are you? (What are the characteristics of that car?)

3. Picture yourself in a life-giving environment. What environment are you in? (What are the characteristics of that environment?)

4. If someone who knew you best were to describe 5 words that describe you at your best, what 5 words would they use?

5. If you helped someone else in a transformational way, what 5 action words would best describe how you helped them?

Now, go back over each of your answers and ask, "What are the implications of this real Brand Me?". To what I'm doing now? To what I'm meant to do? To what I'm not meant to do?

Do you like this person?

Do others need what this person has to offer?

If so, then set them free!!When people think about you what do they think of? What do they remember?

If so, then set them free!!!