You must know yourself to express yourself.
Once you truly know yourself, your public identity becomes an extension of who you really are. Many of us have trouble firming up our identity (i.e. our assumptions & beliefs, our vision, our values and our guiding principles) because we're still trying to figure out what we want to be when we grow up.
For instance, when you mention Oprah Winfrey, what do you think? Most people would respond with words such as, "driven," "passionate," and "dedicated." This successful TV personality is known to be compassionate and caring about people. She's dedicated to causes that improve people's lives and she's driven by success.
How will you be known? You'll never know until you truly know yourself.
The formula for becoming known is laid out in the book, "Celebritize Yourself," by Marsha Friedman, a publicity specialist, writer, national radio personality, public speaker and CEO of the PR firm EMS Incorporated.
Friedman says "it all starts with a book." Why a book? The answer is simple: it's a tangible way to define "you" and your message. Most people propel themselves to the next level simply by mentioning their own book.
Proudly showing a book cover, or sending prospects to find your book on Amazon.com, will always clinch a deal for the newly-published author. A book also opens the door to the media. And media is a pathway to the public you're trying to influence.
For someone to take the time about a topic, give it an impressive title and subtitle, organize it, review it, plan it and get it published, says much about a person. It makes that person special and unique. It's an impressive credential. That will be the same for you.
Your success formula is based on: Your Human Capital (what you know and can do) X Your Social Capital (who you know and who knows you) X Your Reputation (who trusts you).
When we are at our best, we talk more freely, entertain more easily, our message flows more smoothly, and we're willing to share more and more of ourselves in our effort to inspire and to motivate others.
Technology is shrinking our world. Every blog, Facebook or other social network posting, Tweet, magazine article, TV or YouTube show, radio program brings us closer; not farther apart. Share your message often and widely.
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