How can your online presence inspire others?

Defining your purpose is a deeply personal and introspective process that requires self-reflection and a clear understanding of your motivations. Think about the things that truly excite and motivate you. Your purpose could revolve around pursuing and sharing your passions, as this will naturally drive your content creation. Consider what unique perspective or viewpoint you can bring to your chosen field or niche. Your purpose may be to provide a fresh, original, or alternative viewpoint that adds value to your audience. Identify a specific problem or challenge that you're passionate about solving. Your purpose might be to use your online presence to address this issue and provide solutions or insights to others facing the same problem.

You always want to be thinking of what value your contribution is bringing, be it an insight, educational information, tips you gleaned from years in the trenches. Don't just be a bot that reposts what's trending, look how you can add value to whatever you decide to do.

Start with the idea that you will be serving others with your content. The reason I post on LinkedIn is to help employers see the great talent we have here at UT Dallas, and how we’re developing them into top leaders for the business world. Hopefully this opens job opportunities for our students – that’s my main goal. Give yourself a solid purpose and it will be much easier to inspire others.

All content doesn't work on all platforms, for visual storytelling try behance or instagram, for video, try TikTok or Youtube. Don't try to be everywhere, go to where you can click with an audience.

Selecting the right online platforms for your presence is a crucial decision. Different platforms cater to various types of content. If your content is primarily visual, platforms like Instagram or TikTok might be more suitable. If you focus on longer written pieces, consider blogging or platforms like Medium. Each platform has its own set of requirements and expectations. Some may demand more frequent updates, while others may require high-quality visuals or videos. Choose platforms that align with your capabilities and resources. Evaluate the level of interactivity and engagement your content requires. YouTube foe example, allows for more in-depth discussions through comments and longer videos.

Always do a self check: Does this post/tweet/image add any value? Even if you're reacting to content, as long as you add value to the original work, it can be helpful, like a short explainer on a topic that makes it more clear, or your own views and experiences on a topic.

Value of the content is mostly defined by how and what is communicated. Some content stand out, even when we are not looking for it, because it answers a query that we don’t even know how to Google. Some content stand out, even when we are not looking for it, because it talks about a problem that we didn’t even know existed. Besides content type and platform, the content itself should have a deliverable value that resonates with its audience.

Feedback makes us better, good or bad. You can build a great relationship by showing you are just another person, albeit with a unique perspective on your given topic. This can inspire some, created heated debates with others, but can lead to positive outcomes for all. Be passionate but be true to yourself.

My journey is a confluence of challenges and triumphs. Growing up, I felt hopeless; I survived a drive-by shooting at the age of 19. But my hardships didn't define me; they fueled me. Despite the setbacks, I went on to serve 20 years in the U.S. Army, work in the White House Medical Unit serving two presidents, and complete two graduate degrees along with a doctorate. Authenticity is at the core of my message. I share my struggles openly, not as a cry for attention but as a beacon of hope. We all face adversity, but it's our perseverance that counts. My online presence aims to remind you that regardless of your hardships, resilience and authenticity will steer you toward your goals. Let my story inspire you to write yours.

You are a person. While you are creating a 'personal brand' never forget that you are also speaking to people, and they relate to people, not brands. Nobody needs another parasocial relationship, they need someone who can be their everyman, so that it inspires them.

Admit mistakes, and do better. In this day and age of fake news and even more dishonest 'celebrities' be that person that people remembers for being true to yourself and your values. Your niche or audience may be smaller, but it will be built on a solid foundation.

Building your online presence should come from a place of abundance rather than ulterior motives like for example, trying to monetize your online presence. While building your online presence will be able to help you increase your know, like, and trust factor, it shouldn't be the only thing that you focus on. Make sure that you are well resourced as you begin pouring back into your community so that you are contributing from an abundant mindset.