Most of us are familiar with the idea of branding, but have you ever considered yourself as a brand? It might surprise you to know that you are not just a person: you are a brand.

Yes, you heard that right, much like your favourite sneakers or smartphone, people can also brand themselves specifically to position themselves personally, academically, and professionally in a specific light. In the same way that your favourite products position themselves as the solution to specific needs or problems, the way you ‘brand’ yourself can help you build relationships and open up a world of opportunities in your life.

I’ll admit, it is a different way of thinking about yourself and your actions but if you are following any influencers on social media, this is not a new or unfamiliar concept in today’s culture. It is crucial to understand and adapt branding so you can become more intentional and guided when making your way on your journey.

Let’s uncover some strategies to help you stand out in the crowded rooms of college admissions and networking sessions.

What is personal branding for individuals?

Imagine personal branding as your own private and exclusive label. It is what people think of when they hear your name, see your posts on social media, read your application essays, or interact with you. It’s about showcasing your unique mix of skills, passions, and experiences that make you who you are! But it’s more than just a cool logo or a catchy tagline; it’s about consistently presenting the best version of yourself to the people that you interact with. So, whoever is viewing your social media profile or interactions online, will know what you are all about and what to expect when they interact with you.

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Social media is an amazing platform for you to share your most memorable moments and biggest successes with your friends, family and the world. But have you ever stumbled upon a post or story online that made you feel a certain kind of way? A pang of jealousy, perhaps?

Maybe it was a friend sharing a major accomplishment, and while part of you was happy for them, another part felt a pang of envy that you haven’t had the same success or maybe it made you question yourself and feel inadequate? This mix of feelings is more common than you might think, and it’s a scenario that many teens, like Aarav, experience in the digital age.

In one such instance, Aarav found himself wrestling with unexpected envy when he saw a post from a classmate who had won a prestigious environmental science competition. Despite being an advocate for environmental activism himself, Aarav felt overshadowed by his classmate’s achievement. This complex cocktail of admiration and jealousy took Aarav by surprise, prompting him to reflect on his own values and how he chooses to interact online.

Initially tempted to leave a snide comment or make a passive-aggressive post, Aarav was able to realize that these impulses stemmed from his envy rather than the supportive spirit he aspired to embody. This moment of self-awareness was crucial; it led him to genuinely congratulate his classmate, thereby transforming a moment of personal turmoil into one of collective celebration for their shared cause.

Tips for managing envy and for being supportive of your peers online

1. Always Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s perfectly natural to feel envious at times. By recognizing and understanding these emotions, you have taken the first step towards managing them. Sometimes just simply acknowledging them helps makes it feel less overwhelming.

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