Nike, McDonald's, BMW, Disney, and Coca Cola all are brands. (Coca Cola actually has 400 in 200 countries!) A brand is an image, an identity, a statement or message. It is the way a company or product represents itself. It is unique, recognizable, consistently used, and represents something more. As a brand becomes famous, it is known for certain qualities. For example, when I think of Disney, I think fun, family-oriented, safety, good memories, classic and timeless.

What is a personal brand? It is a reflection of who you are. But many people aren't living their true brand. They are living other's brands or visions that don't quite fit (like a shoe that is one size too small!)

Asking yourself the right questions will help you to discover your unique brand. Sometimes the questions have to be a little unconventional to get to the "REAL YOU".

Here is a fun exercise to get you started. Write down the words you would use to describe the following:

1. Your favorite hotel.
2. The restaurant you refuse to eat at.
3. The car you wish you could drive.

I know, you may ask: what do hotels, restaurants or cars have to do with finding the REAL ME? Alot! Here are my answers...

1. My favorite hotel. The W Hotels [1]by Starwood. luxury, clean, personal touches, relaxing, simple, modern, safe, high quality, great customer service, cutting edge, exotic locations
   
2. The restaurant I refuse to eat at. Kentucky Fried Chicken [2]. Cruel killing of animals, unhealthy menu, dirty restrooms, horrible smells.
3. The car I wish to drive. Audi S4 Cabriolet [3] (yes, I know it isn't meant for kiddie carpools or a hybrid :)! Luxury, fast, fun, sporty, European, modern, fully equipped, comfortable, powerful, graceful.

The words I use to describe my most and least favorite things gives me indicators as to my values, what I'm passionate about, how I want to be and live my life out. Therefore, my thoughts, words, actions and the legacy I leave should reflect these values. When I live my values only, it helps create more balance.

The final question: What words would you want others to use to describe your brand?

I would love to know your answers to this exercise and questions. Send them to me in an email at awc@allisoncabral.com [4]