What’s Your Value? 9 Billion or Zero?

What’s your value? Are you worth 9 billion, or are you worth nothing? Our perception is our reality. Some of us run businesses that create immense, life-changing value. Take, for example, those who dedicate themselves to helping autistic children—a gift so priceless it transcends any monetary measure. Yet, it’s amazing how often we overlook the true worth of what’s offered.

Then there are figures like Tony Robbins. He streamlined processes like NLP and even began his journey by pioneering ideas such as the “Fit for Life” concept from Harvey and Marie Diamond. He charges a premium—sometimes, simply attending his virtual sessions costs as much as $10,000. This is a stark reminder that value isn’t solely about tangible products; it’s also about the perception of success and expertise. Today, that perception is often shaped by a well-produced YouTube video or a glitzy website.

I’d venture to say that we all fall somewhere on that sliding scale. In my own business, I see it every day. Many of the doctors I admire, who rank highly on Google, offer procedures that come with real risks. Their glowing five-star averages often hide one-star reviews detailing everything from injuries caused by ultrasound on the face to freezing fat on the body that leads to paradoxical hyperplasia—not to mention RF microneedling, which carries the risk of scars. It begs the question: What do we truly offer, and more importantly, what is it really worth?

I’ve noticed that most people tend to undervalue what they bring to the table, while others overinflate their worth. Whether it’s a true con artist like Elizabeth Holmes, who swindled billions by claiming Theranos could run 100 blood tests on a single drop of blood, or someone like Bernie Madoff, there’s nothing inherently wrong with charging a high price for what you’re offering—if you’re delivering real value. It’s all about speaking loudly and confidently about what you bring to the world.

At the end of the day, our value is defined not by someone else’s perception but by our own belief in what we offer. So ask yourself: What do you offer? And more importantly, what is it truly worth? Embrace your worth, speak up for it, and never shy away from claiming the unique value that only you can bring.

PS: The movie The Dropout about Theranos really drove that point home and opened my eyes. It’s astounding to think that household names like Larry Ellison of Oracle, George Schultz, Walgreens, and so many others were taken in by the deception. Perception is reality.

Stop with the Insane Humility: If You Don’t, Someone Else Will

Have you ever held back from promoting your services, thinking it was more “humble” or “charitable” to stay quiet and let people come to their own conclusions? If so, let’s get real: if you truly have something valuable to offer, then it’s not just a disservice to yourself but to your potential clients to let “humility” keep you silent. Being present to the fact that your services could genuinely help people means understanding that holding back might just lead them straight to someone else who isn’t as skilled, honest, or fair.

For those of us who consider ourselves good, ethical professionals, we need to recognize that humility, when taken to an extreme, can actually harm the very people we hope to help. Think about it—how many verses in the Bible or other spiritual texts talk about humility? But in the name of humility, is it charitable to let someone get ripped off or harmed by a competitor offering subpar services? I’m not talking to the crooks here—they’re already out there, using every tactic imaginable to lure clients. I’m speaking to the good, honest providers.

Here’s a case in point from my own industry. Many don’t realize that repeated use of fillers over several years can cause scars and lumpy textures, as some filler remains in the face indefinitely. Even a skilled injector may struggle with the lasting effects of these fillers, leading to puffiness or unnatural looks over time. It’s our responsibility to advocate for more natural, longer-lasting options, like collagen restoration or muscle rejuvenation, especially if these options lead to a more natural, sustainable look. In my quest to be humble, I wasn’t vocal enough about encouraging clients to choose these alternatives—and I’ve seen clients suffer the consequences.

And this applies to other fields, too. A veterinarian friend of mine shared a story that underscores the same point. He charges $3,000 for surgeries that some “surgical centers” charge $10,000 for. Here’s the twist: he has over 30,000 surgeries under his belt, while the high-priced “center” might hand the job to someone with just a week’s worth of experience. Imagine the heartbreak of a pet owner paying top dollar, only to lose their beloved animal because they were led to believe they’d receive superior care at a higher price. All because my friend, out of humility, didn’t promote his skill and fair pricing enough.

So if you’re someone who provides an exceptional service at a fair price, don’t hide it. If you don’t believe it, raise your service level, lower your costs if you can, and shout it from the rooftops. You’re not just helping yourself by getting more clients—you’re helping people avoid overpaying or getting subpar services elsewhere. Humility has its place, but when it stands in the way of helping people make informed, beneficial choices, it’s time to let go of it and let your voice be heard.

It’s your obligation to stand out.

PS t can feel counterintuitive, especially if humility has been woven into you from a young age, reinforced by family, church, or cultural beliefs. But remember, by holding back, you may unintentionally let others fall into less capable hands or even into predatory ones.

It’s worth affirming every day: “I know I’m offering the best service, so I need to convey that clearly to my prospective clients. It’s the right thing to do.” This self-reminder helps reframe the idea of self-promotion from something “obnoxious” to a responsibility you hold out of genuine care. Sharing the true value of what you offer isn’t about bragging—it’s about ensuring those who need you find the best path forward. You’re doing them a favor.

The Quiet Virtue: Why the Best Services Often Go Unnoticed

Have you ever noticed that the loudest voices aren’t always the most trustworthy? It’s something that seems to happen all around us. The people or businesses shouting the loudest about what they have to offer may not actually have the best offerings. Meanwhile, those who have true value, the ones who focus on providing the highest quality, often remain quiet, drowned out by a sea of noise.

This isn’t just an observation about individuals—it spills over into services and businesses too. We all know how difficult it can be to find the best doctor, service, or even restaurant. Often, the places with the loudest advertising or self-promotion are the ones with the least to offer. They know that in a world filled with distractions, volume sometimes overshadows quality.

The Quiet Experts

Many of the most talented professionals in any field are, by nature or by culture, humble. They let their work speak for itself. There’s even a religious or cultural undertone to this—many spiritual teachings emphasize humility as a virtue. For example, Christianity speaks of “the meek inheriting the earth,” and in many cultures, humility is seen as a sign of wisdom and strength.

This emphasis on humility can sometimes mean that the best services are overlooked. Many professionals, especially in fields like healthcare or aesthetics, are more focused on perfecting their craft than shouting about it from the rooftops. Their work speaks for itself, but in today’s noisy world, sometimes that isn’t enough to get noticed. They believe in quietly doing what’s right and letting the results shine, rather than engaging in aggressive self-promotion.

The Challenge of Visibility

This creates a real challenge—not only for those professionals but also for the people who are searching for the highest quality. How can you know where to find the best doctor or the most effective service when they aren’t actively competing for your attention? Too often, we are left sifting through flashy ads or influencer promotions, only to find that the loudest voices don’t always have the best offerings.

As consumers, we’re often drawn to the loudest message, but volume is not always a guarantee of value. In fact, the best in the business might be the ones you haven’t even heard of yet because they’re too busy doing exceptional work to promote it.

Shifting the Dynamic

The truth is, finding the right service, doctor, or expert often requires us to look beyond the noise. It’s about asking deeper questions, seeking referrals from trusted sources, and doing the research rather than following the flashiest marketing. For professionals, the challenge is learning how to strike a balance between quiet humility and the necessity of being seen.

Imagine how different things could be if we valued quiet excellence over loud mediocrity. If the true experts found ways to make themselves just a little more visible—without compromising their values—perhaps the right people could find them. And for those of us searching for the best, it’s a matter of digging deeper, asking the right questions, and not being fooled by volume.

It’s time to value substance over style and start seeking out the quiet, excellent voices that may have the most to offer.

You Can Only See Clearly from a Higher Point

For those involved in self-development, growth, or even psychotherapy, have you ever noticed the endless “aha” moments? I used to lovingly curse out my friend David Ellzey, who coaches me using the Sedona Method and his own unique blend of skills. I would lovingly say, “WTF? Why didn’t you teach me this 10 years ago?” And to this day, we keep discovering more and more layers. Or is it that we are reaching higher and higher vantage points from which we can make even greater distinctions in every area of our lives for more meaningful and richer relationships, as well as not giving too much attention or personal energy inappropriately in business situations?

For example, you certainly don’t want to be seeking approval or wanting to be liked by your vendors, although you can have a healthy and sometimes friendly relationship. There is a border often crossed by those who seek to be liked by everyone. But the point of this blog is that there are countless things you simply cannot see while you’re blocked by so many childhood, adolescent, or in some cases even adult traumas.

Who doesn’t know an injured woman or man who is incapable of trusting and having a loving relationship? Or one who chooses the same type of person over and over again because it represents something missing from their childhood? These scenarios know no bounds. They exist for some of the obscenely wealthiest and successful among us and across the board. But while you are stuck in the mud or the valley, you can’t even see the next valley or the mountaintop. Maybe you need to learn more or climb higher to see what you couldn’t see before.

Key Points to Consider

  1. Endless Layers of Growth:
    • Personal development is an ongoing journey. Each “aha” moment reveals new layers of understanding and self-awareness.
    • As we grow, our perspective shifts, allowing us to see and understand things that were previously hidden.
  2. Importance of Vantage Points:
    • Just like climbing a mountain, personal growth gives us a higher vantage point. From these new heights, we can see further and make more informed decisions.
    • Higher vantage points help us distinguish between meaningful relationships and those that drain our energy.
  3. Impact of Childhood and Adolescent Traumas:
    • Unresolved traumas can block our vision, keeping us stuck in repetitive patterns.
    • Recognizing and addressing these traumas can free us to see new possibilities and healthier patterns.
  4. Navigating Business Relationships:
    • In business, it’s essential to maintain professional boundaries and not seek approval from everyone.
    • Healthy business relationships are built on mutual respect, not on the need to be liked.
  5. Healing and Growth for Trusting Relationships:
    • Many people struggle with trust and relationship issues due to past traumas.
    • Healing these wounds can open the door to healthier, more trusting relationships.

Conclusion

The journey of personal growth and development is like climbing a mountain. Each new height reached offers a clearer view and deeper understanding of ourselves and our relationships. By addressing unresolved traumas and continuously striving for higher vantage points, we can achieve greater clarity, more meaningful relationships, and a more fulfilled life.


Exploring Your “Woulds”: Bringing Clarity to Your Dreams

What about your “woulds”? We often find ourselves saying, “I would do this if…” But what if we truly considered these “woulds”? What would you do if it were easy, if you had the money, if the steps were clear, if you had part-time help, or if you had the time? Isn’t it worth considering your “woulds”? Perhaps bringing your “woulds” out of the woods might truly bring you clarity.

The Power of “Would”

How many people have found themselves saying, “This is what I would do if I had the money”? Some of those people were lucky. They lost their jobs and were forced to follow their dreams and their passions, ultimately becoming successful in pursuing their dreams. It’s time to stop and examine your “woulds.” Great clarity, greater success, fulfillment, and purpose will be found when you get out of the darkness of the woods and bring out your true “woulds”—the ones that are in your heart and soul.

Identifying Your True “Woulds”

Your true “woulds” are often apparent. How many times have you spoken to a friend, and they are blown away by your passion when you speak about your art, music, love of healthy foods, cooking, exercise, teaching, or any other interests? There are as many vocations and avocations as there are people. In today’s connected society, you could be teaching a course to people anywhere in the world. With today’s AI technology, it could be simulcast in many languages in real time, and even questions and answers can be handled in real time.

Steps to Bringing Your “Woulds” to Life

  1. Identify Your Passion:
    • What is it that you would do if all obstacles were removed? Consider your hobbies, interests, and the things that make you feel alive.
  2. Clarify the Steps:
    • Break down the process into clear, manageable steps. What do you need to do first, and what comes next?
  3. Seek Resources:
    • What resources do you need? Consider financial resources, time, help from others, and any tools or equipment.
  4. Create a Plan:
    • Develop a step-by-step plan to turn your “woulds” into actionable goals. Set deadlines and milestones to track your progress.
  5. Leverage Technology:
    • Use technology to your advantage. Teach online courses, create digital content, or start a virtual business. The world is your potential customer base.
  6. Take Action:
    • Start small if necessary, but take the first step. As you progress, adjust your plan as needed and keep moving forward.

Real-Life Inspiration

Consider the stories of people who turned their “woulds” into reality:

  • Entrepreneurs who started businesses with little money but a lot of passion.
  • Artists and musicians who pursued their crafts despite financial uncertainty.
  • Teachers and coaches who reached global audiences through online platforms.

These individuals found great success by following their passions and bringing their “woulds” out of the woods.

Conclusion

There is no excuse to not pursue your passion in today’s world. The whole world is your potential audience, and with the right steps and mindset, you can bring your “woulds” to life. It’s time to stop shoulding on yourself and others and start exploring the possibilities of your “woulds.” Embrace your passions, clarify your steps, and take action to create the fulfilling life you envision.

Shit for Brains: The Most Common Path to Success

Yes, original thinking leads to amazing things like the lightbulb, Tesla, and other great inventions. But you might argue that even Apple started as a mismatch of the Sony Walkman and Blackberry. The more common route to success I’ve witnessed requires suspending all critical thinking and blindly following a formula. It’s not glamorous, but it works. Let’s dive into why “shit for brains” might just be the most reliable path to success.

The Common Path: Shit for Brains

Franchises: The Recipe for Wealth

Take franchises, for example. They’re a goldmine if you follow the rules. McDonald’s even has a university to ensure franchisees do everything by the book. Divergent thinking? Not allowed. Stick to the formula, and you’re set for life.

Multilevel Marketing (MLM) Companies

Then there’s Amway and other MLMs. People have made untold fortunes by following the company’s script without applying any of their own critical thinking. Just do what they tell you, and you could end up wealthy.

Real Estate and Courses

Consider your friend who took a course on flipping houses or accumulating real estate. They didn’t think; they just followed the steps. If their timing was right, and they hit a boom period in real estate, they’re probably sitting on millions now.

Anecdotal Evidence: The Mainframe Distributor

I’ll never forget my childhood friend who got a distributorship for large mainframe computers in the seventies. He didn’t dot every I or cross every T, and some of his computers ended up in Russia. He had to clear up his troubles in DC later, but he’s obscenely rich now. Not thinking and just plowing ahead worked out for him.

The Middle Path: Challenges and Realities

Most of us fall somewhere in the middle, balancing between blind conformity and radical originality. This middle path is tricky. It requires you to follow some guidelines while thinking outside the box just enough to make improvements or find unique solutions.

The Road Not Travelled: The Thrill of Divergence

Then there’s the road not travelled, filled with excitement and unknowns. For some of us, like me, this path is where we find our joy. It’s not always the way to immense wealth, but it’s rich with personal fulfillment and adventure.

Embracing Originality

Those of us who love the road not travelled have what I call a mismatching brain. We crave exploration and innovation, even if others don’t always understand us. It’s a lonelier path, but incredibly rewarding when our ideas catch on.

Personal Happiness: The Traditional Route

I’m sure some of you have friends who followed the traditional marriage route. They married through arranged marriages or chose partners within their community, religion, or culture. Many of them went on to have extremely happy, successful lives surrounded by like-minded people. This route, too, can lead to personal happiness and fulfillment, reinforcing the idea that following a well-known path without questioning can lead to a happy and successful life.

Conclusion: Two Paths to Success

In summary, both paths—the shit for brains route and the road not travelled—are valid routes to success. The former is reliable and often leads to wealth and happiness by following proven formulas. The latter is for those who seek excitement and fulfillment through originality.

For those of us who thrive on the unconventional, the road not travelled offers a richness of experience that conventional paths lack. It may not always lead to immense wealth, but it brings joy and discovery.

A Proposal for Reflection

So here’s my proposal: either follow the well-known path without question or embrace original thinking to become a one-in-a-billion innovator. Reflect on where you stand and choose the journey that fits your personality and aspirations. For me, the road not travelled is where I find my excitement and joy, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.


Next time, let’s delve deeper into the joy and challenges of the road not travelled. For those of us who love adventure and the unknown, it’s a journey worth every step.

The Power of Original Thinking: Embracing Mismatching for Innovation

Original thinking often refers to the ability to generate new ideas, concepts, or perspectives that are not simply a rehash of existing thoughts or conventions. But what qualifies as original thinking, and how can we cultivate it to foster truly great ideas or innovations? One essential aspect is what is commonly called “mismatching.” This involves deliberately diverging from conventional patterns or norms, which can lead to groundbreaking discoveries and creative breakthroughs. Let’s explore what makes thinking original and why mismatching is crucial for innovation.

Qualities of Original Thinking

Novelty

  • Uniqueness: The idea or concept should be new and not something that has been widely discussed or implemented before.
  • Innovation: Bringing a fresh perspective or approach to solving a problem or viewing a situation.

Creativity

  • Imagination: Utilizing one’s imagination to create something different from the standard or expected.
  • Divergent Thinking: The ability to think in varied and unique directions, rather than following a linear path of thought.

Critical Thinking

  • Analysis: Deeply analyzing existing ideas and concepts to find gaps, inconsistencies, or areas for improvement.
  • Synthesis: Combining different ideas, perspectives, or pieces of information in new ways to generate unique conclusions or solutions.

Perspective

  • Personal Insight: Drawing from personal experiences, observations, and reflections to create ideas that reflect one’s unique viewpoint.
  • Challenging Norms: Questioning established norms and conventions to explore alternative possibilities.

Practicality

  • Application: Developing ideas that not only are new but can also be applied in practical ways to bring about change or improvement.
  • Feasibility: Considering the feasibility and potential impact of the new idea in real-world scenarios.

Mismatching: Essential for Original Thinking

Breaking Conventional Patterns

  • Questioning Assumptions: Mismatching involves questioning widely accepted assumptions and exploring alternatives that may not be immediately obvious.
  • Non-Conformity: Choosing to think or act differently from the majority can lead to unique perspectives and solutions.

Encouraging Diverse Perspectives

  • Interdisciplinary Thinking: Drawing from various fields of knowledge to create hybrid ideas that transcend traditional boundaries.
  • Cultural and Contextual Differences: Embracing diverse cultural perspectives and contextual factors to enrich the creative process.

Stimulating Innovation

  • Disruptive Thinking: Introducing ideas that challenge the status quo and have the potential to create significant change.
  • Creative Problem-Solving: Using mismatching to approach problems from unconventional angles, leading to innovative solutions.

Fostering Resilience and Adaptability

  • Embracing Failure: Understanding that not all mismatched ideas will succeed, but each attempt contributes to learning and improvement.
  • Adaptability: Being open to change and willing to pivot when new information or perspectives arise.

Enhancing Cognitive Flexibility

  • Mental Agility: Practicing mismatching helps develop the ability to switch between different modes of thinking, enhancing overall cognitive flexibility.
  • Reducing Cognitive Bias: Challenging one’s own cognitive biases by considering and integrating opposing viewpoints.

Examples of Mismatching Leading to Innovation

  • Scientific Breakthroughs: Many scientific discoveries, such as Einstein’s theory of relativity, came from questioning established norms and thinking differently about space and time.
  • Artistic Movements: Art movements like Cubism and Surrealism emerged from artists deliberately diverging from traditional artistic techniques and perspectives.
  • Technological Innovations: Companies like Apple and Tesla have succeeded by challenging conventional industry standards and creating products that redefine their markets.
  • Business Models: The sharing economy, exemplified by companies like Airbnb and Uber, mismatched traditional business models by leveraging technology to create new ways of accessing goods and services.

Conclusion

Original thinking is the lifeblood of innovation. By embracing mismatching, we challenge the status quo, encourage diverse perspectives, and stimulate groundbreaking ideas. Whether in science, art, technology, or business, the willingness to diverge from conventional patterns and explore uncharted territories can lead to profound and impactful innovations. So, let’s cultivate our creativity, question norms, and embrace the power of mismatching to drive the future of original thinking.


By fostering an environment where mismatching is encouraged, we can unlock new levels of creativity and innovation. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a scientist, an artist, or just someone looking to think differently, remember that the path to original thinking often lies in the willingness to break away from the norm and explore the unconventional.

Emotional Energetic States: Energy vs. Anti-Energy

  1. Fun vs. Rigidity
    • Fun: Represents a state of joy, playfulness, and light-heartedness. This energy is infectious and can uplift those around you.
    • Rigidity: Signifies strictness, inflexibility, and a serious demeanor. It can create barriers in communication and make interactions feel tense.
  2. Goddess in the Heart vs. Thinking (in the Head)
    • Goddess in the Heart: Symbolizes being present, compassionate, and connected to your emotions and intuition. It allows for deep, heartfelt connections with others.
    • Thinking (in the Head): Indicates being overly analytical, focused on the past or future, and disconnected from the present moment. This state can hinder genuine emotional connection.
  3. Aspirational Inspired vs. Negativity
    • Aspirational Inspired: Involves being motivated, hopeful, and driven by positive goals. This energy can inspire and motivate others.
    • Negativity: Involves pessimism, doubt, and negative vibrations. It can drain energy and discourage those around you.
  4. Zeus Decisive Fulfillment Achievement vs. Fear and Uncertainty
    • Zeus Decisive Fulfillment Achievement: Embodies confidence, decisiveness, and a sense of accomplishment. This state exudes strength and can lead others with assurance.
    • Fear and Uncertainty: Represents anxiety, hesitation, and lack of confidence. It can create instability and prevent effective communication.

The Importance of Emotional Energy in Communication

You cannot effectively communicate with others if you are stuck in a state of rigidity, overthinking, negativity, or fear. True connection happens on an energetic level, where emotions play a crucial role.

Key Points to Remember:

  • We connect energetically: Our emotional states influence our ability to connect with others. Being in a positive and present state enhances our interactions.
  • Physical Actions to Shift States: If you find yourself in misery, grief, or depression, physical actions like a hand clap or fist pump can help shift your energy.
  • Communicating Emotionally: To take people on an emotional journey with you, you need to be in touch with your own emotions. This allows you to communicate with authenticity and empathy.

By being aware of your emotional state and actively choosing positive energy, you can improve your ability to connect and communicate with others. This not only enhances personal relationships but also professional interactions and overall well-being.

Credit Michael Smikun July 5, 2024 morning huddle Unblinded my notes to the best of my ability

You Can Lead a Horse to Water, But What If the Horse Wants to Drink but Doesn’t Know Where the Water Is?

In business, we often hear the saying, “You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink.” It’s a metaphor for presenting opportunities that people may not take advantage of. But let’s flip that perspective. What if the horse is thirsty and desperately wants to drink but doesn’t know where to find the water?

This scenario is far more common than we might think. Many businesses are surrounded by potential customers who are eager for what they offer but simply don’t know they exist. These are the thirsty horses, yearning for a sip of the water you provide. The challenge is not just about leading them to the water but making sure they know where to find it.

Understanding Your Unique Offering

Every business has its unique nuances—elements that set it apart from the competition. It could be the exceptional quality of your products, the unparalleled service of your staff, or the strategic location of your business. These differences might seem subtle but are crucial in attracting and retaining customers.

  1. Personnel: Your team is your greatest asset. Their skills, attitudes, and interactions with customers create a unique experience that can’t be replicated elsewhere.
  2. Location: Your business’s location can offer conveniences or charm that attract a particular clientele.
  3. Product Differentiation: Even slight variations in your product can appeal to specific needs and preferences of your target audience.

Making Your Presence Known

To connect with these thirsty horses, you need to ensure they are aware of your existence and what you offer. Here are some strategies to achieve this:

  1. Effective Marketing: Utilize various marketing channels—social media, SEO, content marketing, and traditional advertising—to increase visibility. Tailor your message to highlight what makes your business unique.
  2. Customer Engagement: Engage with your customers regularly. Encourage them to share their experiences and refer others. Word-of-mouth remains a powerful tool.
  3. Community Involvement: Be active in your local community. Sponsoring events, participating in community service, and partnering with local organizations can increase your visibility and credibility.
  4. Feedback and Improvement: Regularly seek feedback from your customers and use it to improve your services. Showing that you value their opinions can build loyalty and attract new customers.
  5. Social Media: Leverage social media platforms to reach a broader audience. Share engaging content, respond to comments, and interact with followers to build a strong online presence. Use targeted ads to reach specific demographics interested in your unique offerings.
  6. Networking: Attend industry events, join business associations, and network with other professionals. Building relationships with others in your field can lead to referrals and collaborations that increase your visibility.
  7. Speaking Engagements: Position yourself as an expert in your industry by speaking at conferences, workshops, and seminars. Sharing your knowledge and insights can enhance your reputation and attract potential customers who are eager to learn from you.
  8. Podcasts: Start your own podcast or be a guest on others. Podcasts are a great way to reach an engaged audience and discuss topics relevant to your business. Sharing your expertise can draw in listeners who are interested in what you have to offer.

The Awareness Challenge

The real challenge is not just to be found but to be remembered. It’s about creating a lasting impression that keeps customers coming back and referring others. This involves consistently delivering on your promises and maintaining the quality and uniqueness of your offerings.

Remember, the world is full of thirsty horses looking for the water you have. Your task is to ensure they know where to find it. Highlight your unique strengths, engage with your community, and use every tool at your disposal to make your presence known. Because once they find you, they’ll keep coming back for more.