There are a lot of decisions that we have to make throughout the course of this thing we call life. Many things are practically deemed down to choice - likes, dislikes, agree, disagree, and opinions on this and that.

From day one, we are making decisions. Some may seem mundane as if it is something that just happens. Something where there is barely any thought - favorite color, favorite animal, favorite this and that. It is not controversial, and it is not 'a make you or break you' type of deal.

As children growing up, we are constantly surrounded by influential factors. We are being shaped and molded by the things we hear and see. We are influenced by our environments and interactions.

Now what we see and what we hear may not necessarily influence our favorite color, but they do have impact.

We are told that we are unique. Everyone is his or her own person. We learn as we grow, and we grow as we learn.Throughout that time, we, as individuals, develop into a person of character, personality, and thought.

We attain a repertoire of personal experiences, opportunities, and skills. All in which are influences in themselves. The repertoire applies to different aspects of life and is in a way, a personal trailer as to who we are as a person.

We develop fundamentals that lay the foundation that portrays us, thus developing an identity. An identity in which promotes us.

A personal brand signifies a perception in which others look upon, thereby creating a platform. Personal brands, professional brands, and all in between, share a message that is controlled by what perception to send.

When building a brand, one of the key factors is authenticity. If the brand is promotion, being honest and authentic is essential. One's values and motivation coupled with ambition and initiative combines to cultivates his or her platform that supports the brand.

Think about image and reputation. What do you want to be said about you when you are not in the room? What form of connection do you want conjured? An impressionable mark is just as important as a physical presence.

Regardless as to the type of message, how it is told is essential as to what the message is. A balance is significant. Verbal action as well as physical action goes hand in hand. Words must be backed up by what one does and vice versa.

Knowing who you are is the beginning into knowing your story. Think of it as an elevator speech. If you only had as long as an elevator ride to tell someone about yourself, what would you say - what would be your authentic message?

There are many words to describe how one would be characterized as - dedicated, confident, encouraging, intelligent, passionate, reflective, and so on. Now these are just barely treading water into the depth of characterization.

All in all, each individual puts a unique touch on his or her own unique brand. As one changes, the message can change; therefore the brand can very well change. The individual decides.