In his latest book, "Social Boom! How to Master Business Social Media," my friend Jeffrey Gitomer talks about how to use social media to promote and propel your business and build your brand. 

Whether we realize it or not, we each have a brand.  It's what we stand for, what we're about, who we are in our essence. It got me to thinking about how social media either enhances our message or detracts from it.  

First of all, do you even know what your particular message is?  We're all saying something, what is it?  What are you here to accomplish in this lifetime (your dharma)?  Mine is to heal the world through yoga, one breath at a time.

How aware are you of what you're saying about yourself (and thereby your brand) on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube?

How authentic are you in what you post?  Do your posts match your message?  Do they add value, or are they just the ramblings of someone seeking a distraction? 

For example, a friend of mine has been vegan for over 25 years.  Everything she posts or reposts supports her advocacy for the well-being of all sentient beings. 

She's authentic and consistent in her message.  It would be out of character for her to post something that went against that message.  

People today are looking for leaders who are authentic and consistent in their message.  Each of us is a leader in some way.  You're either leading people towards you and your message, or you're leading them away from you.  You choose.

Take Aways

• Get clear on your message.  What are you about?  What effect to you want to have on the world?
• Go back and look at your on-line presence with fresh eyes.  What does it say about you?  Is it consistent with the message you want to convey?
• Think before you post.  Does the questionable video or joke support who are you, or does it distract from your message?
• Be consistent. 

Start now on getting clear on what you're about, and then make sure your words, actions and deeds support that message. 

Namaste,

Debbie