I've always told my clients that branding their business was more than just designing a pretty logo and slapping it on things, but rather a deeper process that looks into the heart of what drives their company to keep it moving forward in an ever changing and demanding world. It's about looking into the essence of who they are and bringing that to the surface to serve a greater purpose. Once that core message and value is established then we proceed with the rest of the creative process. To be able to create a symbol or icon that would represent the core of your business and then carry that imagery out into your customers world takes consistency, process and self-awareness.
However, when I had to pick-up the mirror and take a good look at my work in order to re-brand myself it was that much harder! It was easy to look at someone else's business as I was an outsider, but looking within myself took a different kind of lens. To start on the path of self-discovery I began reading a book called, "The Path" by Laurie Beth Jones ( no pun intended ) and it opened up a whole new perspective into showcasing ones talent and abilities from a far more valuable place. Anyone can get a job, however living up to your full potential and finding your unique voice takes a more insightful look into ones own abilities and shortcomings. It can be painful to learn certain truths, but liberating to learn what gifts you really do have to offer. I wanted to better understand and harness my own talents and gifts, separate from my skill set. As a graphic designer and artist I realized it could be easy to make those titles my identity, but after a while you have to ask yourself why your doing something and if the answer is more than a superficial one, then it's time for reflection and change. I could see myself tied to design, the computer, artsy fartsy friends ect. But I wanted more than just skill sets, routine and labels or else i'm just like a computer. And now here I am discovering my own unique voice and essence to be able to reflect it back to the world in a meaningful way.
That was the start of my branding brainstorming session, but enough to lead me in the right direction of my core essence ( such is life ) so I'll enjoy creating new things for the moment, with a flexible plan in mind and see where it takes me.
Thank you for reading
-AnaLu
( doodle pics coming soon )