Full before Empty

Heard of the proverb, “Empty vessels make the most noise”? Simply put, it’s the adage that states it’s the least talented, the least knowledgeable and those with the most to prove that make the most noise and seek the most attention.

Whether its daily selfies, insta pouting and relentless uploads of their non-events, they have the compunction to over share, over post and over state their abilities.

I’m not hating on people trying to make it happen but you only have to look at the worlds of Selfie-Ville, Influencer City and Troller Town to see the relentless advance of the empty vessels phenomenon.

And the vacant, hollow and vast desolation that surrounds their self-aggrandizement. Ouch.

Here's the kicker and why this is relevant to your personal and brand growth: Empty vessels making noise closer to home can serve to distract you from your own legacy.

I’m talking about the people in your feed that are empty vessels themselves. Double ouch.

Their blasts of selfies will most likely look shinier and glossier than your own plodding boring, day-to-day, non-posted progress.

It could easily make you feel that you have little to offer and that you should be doing more to match their loud trumpeting.

Hold up! Here’s where your brand intelligence needs to kick in.

Look not at the selfies, the pics with celebs, the shout-outs and the invitations to like and follow their confusing initiatives that have yet to come to life.

Instead look for the substance:

• Does the industry acknowledge them with peer awards?

• Even so, do they have the respect of their equals?

• Are esteemed journalists writing about them?

• Are valued industry leaders partnering with them?

• What are their industry and audience reviews like?

• Do they show a real talent and genuine joy for their pursuit?

• Do they have a tangible product in market? Or are they simply all talk?

• Are others talking about them or are they the only ones blowing their own horn?

When you’ve done the math, pop your corn and sit back.

Watch as the self-flattery fizzles for lack of substance.

Or better still, busy yourself in what matters the most.

Focusing on building a strong, powerful brand and a legacy that truly impacts the world.

Insight Inspiration

The term “Midas Touch”, has commonly been associated with the more optimistic qualities of King Midas myth – that everything a person ‘touches’ can lead to success and wealth.

The true story however was that the ‘golden touch’ was a curse.

Midas touched a rose and it turned into an inanimate gold object, as did his daughter.

He was soon begging to be released from his newfound powers after losing what was most precious to him.

The parable of the story being that gold, shine and gloss can easily overwhelm and steal from the genuine article.

Don’t be distracted by whatever is sparkly, glittery and polished.

Instead focus on what’s real and true in your journey.

Stop comparing yourself with the affirmation hunters of this world and instead find your credibility and integrity in the satisfaction of a job well done.

Think on it.