Just Own It: Create Your Brand's Superhero Story

Ever wonder why some people seem to magnetize success while others blend into the background? The secret might surprise you - it's not about being perfect, it's about being real.

Let's diving deep into the world of personal branding, and I'm going to show you how to unleash your superpower. Buckle up, because this journey might get a little uncomfortable – but I promise, it's worth it.

The Personality Paradox

Here's a wild thought: While corporations are desperately trying to seem more human, most of us are trying to sanitize our personalities to appear more "professional." But here's the kicker - people don't fall in love with corporations, they fall in love with personalities.

Think Apple vs Steve Jobs.

Or why Joshua Steven Gámez has a bigger following than East Coast Facilities, Inc.

So, why are we trying so hard to fit in when standing out truly connects us with others?

Unmasking Your Superpower

Your superpower isn't what you think it is. It's not your skills, your achievements, or even your expertise. Your superpower lies in your shadow self – the parts of you that you've been hiding from the world.

Here's a quick exercise:

1. Write down how most people see you and what you do.
2. Now, write down what they don't know – what you struggle with.

That struggle? That's where your superpower is hiding.

The Two-Word Brand

Now, here's where the magic happens. Take your shadow word (that thing you struggle with) and add a transformer word to it. This becomes your two-word brand – a powerful, concise way to describe who you are and what makes you unique.

For example:

• A people-pleaser might become a "Proud People-Pleaser"
• An attention-seeker could transform into an "Attention Broker"
• When ECF takes a stand against brokers, they become "Broker Killers"

Your two-word brand isn't your entire story – it's just the hook that makes people want to know more.

The Power of Vulnerability

Being vulnerable is scary, but it's also the key to making meaningful connections. When you're willing to show your true self, flaws and all, you become relatable. And in a world of polished personas, relatability is your secret weapon.

Remember, you're perfectly imperfect just the way you are.

Crafting Your Story

Every superhero has an origin story, and so do you. Your personal brand story should include:

1. Your superpower (your two-word brand)
2. Your origin (where you came from, your background)
3. Your mentor (who shaped your thinking and values)
4. Your villain (what you stand against)
5. Your style (your unique way of presenting yourself)

Don't shy away from the challenges you've faced – they're what make your journey compelling. Adversity is your ally, not your enemy.

The Power of Enemies

Here's a counterintuitive idea: to gain true fans, you need to make some enemies. Not in a malicious way, but by taking a stand against something. What annoys you? What makes you mad? Your complaint can become your calling. (Can you think of what this is for ECF? ;)

Give your "villains" a name. (Clowns) Own them. This galvanizes your community and gives them something to rally behind.

Style: Your Visual Signature

Your personal brand isn't just about what you say – it's also about how you present yourself visually. Think about your signature style:

• What colors represent you? (For ECF is our signature green.)
• What's your iconic accessory? (The ECF logo is our mascot.)
• How can you make your appearance instantly recognizable? (Max branding on everything!)

Word of caution. If you keep making the same "mistake" then that will become your style.

The Snowflake Effect (Pun Intended)

Once you know who you are, what you stand for, and how you want to present yourself, you can start building. It starts small, like a snowflake, but keep at it and soon you'll have an avalanche of brand recognition.

Key Takeaways:

• Weak is strong
• Perfect is boring
• Real is relatable
• Stop selling, start serving
• Complexity is the enemy
• Adversity is your ally

Remember, you are the gift. Your unique combination of strengths, weaknesses, and experiences is what makes you valuable. Don't hide it – celebrate it.

Ready to unleash your personal brand? I'd love to hear about your two-word brand. Hit reply and let me know what you come up with!

Until next time, keep creating more!

Joshua Brecht