I guess a lot of us are grappling with these kinds of issues. For what it's worth, I like the logo. It vaguely reminds me of a Japanese character. As for branding, for me it's about how you behave and the values you display. I don't think you can rebrand yourself into a different place. I think you have to move/be there first. Finally, what makes me want to read a post is either the content being of interest or the execution (usually the writing) being full of verve. It doesn't have to be both. I hope that helps.
And I agree with you on brand when it comes to being in that "place" first. I do think you can manufacture a brand, or a character, which I don't care to do but I appreciate (I'm channeling say, the version of Stephen Colbert on the The Colbert Report). But even then, that character is created first, and brand is the outward facing extension of it.
First, you’re definitely not annoying, as this post was awesome! I struggle with “branding” as well. However, I do relate to the notion of branding as “relationship.” Perhaps also, vulnerability, honesty, relatability, something like that. All I know is this was raw, witty, and damn sure worth a... lobotomy lol... that was good. Keep it up!
Thanks so much for this. I feel like vulnerability is supported and encouraged here on Substack, where on other platforms it's a set-up for doom, like wearing the really tacky sweater and trying to get a seat at the cool kids' lunch table. Maybe vulnerability is part of Substack's brand? In a good way?
I think that's the hardest part of creating a brand, especially if what it needs to represent is indeed you and/or your creation. It can feel like there's a lot on the line, it does for me anyway. I'd have an easier time branding a car, or a toy, or even a service, especially when I have distance from it or care less about it. Maybe? IDK. Is this what you meant by raw? lol Unfiltered? :)
I also think that's what strikes me as oxymoronic about a "personal brand" -- why do I have to formalize what I'm already doing? I get why, of course, but it still seems....weird.
I do appreciate your feedback. I find I am happier with my post when I just dump them out. Like a true conversation with all of the YOUs out there. I like the more structured and researched ones too, but I worry about them feeling contrived, forced. I hope to master the blend of both -- my raw and witty, relatable take on what I research and study and bring together.
Resident oddball, yes, I love it. Do it. And I too subscribe to far more stacks than I can possibly read!
I do the same with books!
I guess a lot of us are grappling with these kinds of issues. For what it's worth, I like the logo. It vaguely reminds me of a Japanese character. As for branding, for me it's about how you behave and the values you display. I don't think you can rebrand yourself into a different place. I think you have to move/be there first. Finally, what makes me want to read a post is either the content being of interest or the execution (usually the writing) being full of verve. It doesn't have to be both. I hope that helps.
Verve is such a great word! Yes, I agree.
And I agree with you on brand when it comes to being in that "place" first. I do think you can manufacture a brand, or a character, which I don't care to do but I appreciate (I'm channeling say, the version of Stephen Colbert on the The Colbert Report). But even then, that character is created first, and brand is the outward facing extension of it.
This is very helpful, thank you!
Maybe you don’t choose the brand. Maybe it chooses you.
🤯
P.S. I’m looking forward to your State Fair post. I refuse to go, myself, but I’d like to know what I’m missing.
The brand chooses us....like those poor cows? :-\
First, you’re definitely not annoying, as this post was awesome! I struggle with “branding” as well. However, I do relate to the notion of branding as “relationship.” Perhaps also, vulnerability, honesty, relatability, something like that. All I know is this was raw, witty, and damn sure worth a... lobotomy lol... that was good. Keep it up!
Thanks so much for this. I feel like vulnerability is supported and encouraged here on Substack, where on other platforms it's a set-up for doom, like wearing the really tacky sweater and trying to get a seat at the cool kids' lunch table. Maybe vulnerability is part of Substack's brand? In a good way?
I think that's the hardest part of creating a brand, especially if what it needs to represent is indeed you and/or your creation. It can feel like there's a lot on the line, it does for me anyway. I'd have an easier time branding a car, or a toy, or even a service, especially when I have distance from it or care less about it. Maybe? IDK. Is this what you meant by raw? lol Unfiltered? :)
I also think that's what strikes me as oxymoronic about a "personal brand" -- why do I have to formalize what I'm already doing? I get why, of course, but it still seems....weird.
I do appreciate your feedback. I find I am happier with my post when I just dump them out. Like a true conversation with all of the YOUs out there. I like the more structured and researched ones too, but I worry about them feeling contrived, forced. I hope to master the blend of both -- my raw and witty, relatable take on what I research and study and bring together.
Keep the comments and feedback coming!
Cheers!
I'm just LOL on the graveyard of Canva logos... same girl, same.
Lol right?? I'm a digital pack rat 🤦🏻♀️