HIIT 12: Map Your Story

“But how could you live and have no story to tell?” ― Fyodor Dostoevsky

Whether you’re a business or personality, your story is what makes you uniquely you.

There are 6 billion people on this planet and not one of us has the same story.

Each one is fascinating and enthralling even in the minutiae.

So please, don’t undermine your story or litter it with untrue or overly flattering words or features.

Remain true to its veracity, even if it’s a simple story and you’ll find it will draw people inextricably to you.

For who are we if not the stories we pass down?

Your reputation on the other hand is someone else's story about you – one that you cannot control although you can affect the factors your reputation is based on.

You can positively influence your reputation by writing a brand story to give people a head start in understanding who and why you are.

If you can’t write it yourself, work with a brand strategist (like The Brand Ninja) to pull it together for you because a well-written one will add endless value to your reputation and legacy.

Every story has a beginning, middle and an end. Write it accordingly.

Also make sure your story has the required elements – who, what, why, when and how?

You then need to take people on an emotive journey – what inspired the brand, what does the brand stand for, what are the brand aspirations, what’s the purpose and what’s the promise.

Finally, don’t be shy to make yourself the hero of your story. Remember you are unique and no one can replicate YOU.

However your story also needs to be others focused – serving the needs of others per your brand purpose.

“If you are not the hero of your own story, then you're missing the whole point of your humanity.” ― Steve Maraboli