September 18, 2008

When we think of an important idea in our mind, we envision everything about it. The more we think about that idea, and the clearer our focus becomes on that idea, the easier it is for that idea to become a reality.

Susan Strong at The Metaphor Project explains how we, as humans, are pre-programmed to respond to catchy phrases and small sound bites. She also suggests ways to frame your own message to fit in with “speaking American”

For example, when talking about America, the emerging storyline is about the American Dream, which many women starting up businesses believe in:

1. THE AMERICAN DREAM: pioneering, being on the frontier of something, creating the new, bright future, we invent ourselves b/c we are a “can do” people (or reinvent, redeem, renew or restore), we like things bigger, better, higher, up, improved, fresh, more of everything, we do what works, we’re optimistic….

2. THE AMERICAN NATION: a new kind of nation with a mission, beacon of hope, melting pot, cradle of freedom, democracy’s defender, champion & missionary, home of equal opportunity, of hope, choice, and of power, conscience of the world, rule of law, human rights, political rights, a classless society. . .

3. FREE TO SUCCEED: no barriers, Horatio Alger (individual economic responsibility) and hope for economic success, rags to riches, being good=being rich, a rising tide lifts all boats, individual effort, innovate, compete, win by hard work and being smart, winning, being on the winning team, owning your own home or business, coming from behind, playing catch up. . .

For more, see: http://www.metaphorproject.org/index.php?id=22

I encourage you to consider your existing motto or your life message. What is your mission? What do you plan to accomplish? Who do you connect with?

You take ideas from your own mind, formulate them into a clear message, and then take action, which affects other people. Your ideas literally change the world.

For me, I’ve thought a lot about my mission, which is to empower, educate, and connect women, especially women of color.

As a web developer, I work with women who are developing their business for professional and personal growth. As a mother, wife, daughter, sister, and businesswoman myself, I believe in The Gift of Your Life and that each of us has an honorable challenge and opportunity to make the most of our talents and skills to make the world a truly better place.