Charting a New Course: Mapping My Brand Universe
I went away for a while there, because I needed space (literal and metaphorical) to step back and figure some things out in life and business. But now I'm back, energized and excited to share some new ideas that have been brewing in my creative universe.
The Journey Inward
As a brand strategist, I've had the privilege of guiding countless clients to create authentic, enduring brands. Yet behind the scenes, I was caught in a pattern many creatives know too well – the ability to solve everyone's problems except my own. I could craft the perfect strategy for others, but when it came to my own brand? I was too close – and preoccupied with creating things for clients – to see it clearly.
Making Space
Sometimes the only thing we can do is step away. I took a deliberate pause from my business – not just a brief break, but a true reset. This wasn't just about rest; it was about perspective. Like an astronomer adjusting their telescope, I needed to find the right distance to see the full picture.
Discovering a New Universe
In this intentional pause, patterns began to emerge. I noticed how branding, at its core, mirrors the elegant organization of the universe – each element in perfect relation to the others, creating a harmonious whole. This revelation became the foundation for something new: the Map Your Brand Universe framework.
This wasn't just another branding system. It was the culmination of years of observation, client work, and finally understanding why I was so drawn to design in the first place. It's a framework that emerged naturally from my fascination with space and systems, rather than trying to force-fit existing models.
The Power of Alignment
What makes this approach different? It treats your brand like a solar system – where every element must be in perfect alignment to create stability and growth. No more scattered efforts or trying to be everything to everyone. Instead, it's about finding your natural orbit and calling clients into it.
Looking Forward
As I relaunch my business with this new perspective, I'm excited to share the Map Your Brand Universe framework with you. It's more than just a methodology – it's a way of seeing branding through a completely different lens.
What I've Learned Along the Way
1. Trust Your Internal Navigation System
Your intuition about your brand is usually right – even when (especially when) it conflicts with what everyone else is doing.
2. Alignment is Everything
When your brand truly aligns with who you are, work flows naturally.
3. Empty Space is Essential
Just as the universe needs vast spaces between stars, your brand needs room to breathe and evolve. Don't try to fill every void.
4. Your Brand is a Living System
Like any ecosystem, your brand needs to be able to grow, adapt, and evolve. Build flexibility into your foundation.
5. Authenticity Creates Gravitational Pull
The more authentic your brand is to who you really are, the more naturally it will attract the right people and opportunities.
6. You Can't Rush Orbital Mechanics
Some things – like finding your voice and building your audience – take the time they take. Respect the natural rhythm of growth.
To those who've been part of this journey, whether you're a past client or a new observer: thank you for your patience during my absence. The perspective gained during this time has been invaluable, and I'm returning with clarity, purpose, and a framework that I believe will transform how I approach branding.
Ready to explore this new universe together? Stay tuned for more on what I learned while I was away and for a tour of this new Brand Universe framework. 🚀
In the meantime, check out my shiny new website and get in touch if you’d like to talk about your branding and design needs - I’m available and ready to make things beautiful.
