Own your weird!

in a world of mass production and mass advertising and mass conformance, the only smart strategy was to make average stuff for average people. But in a world of the long tail, of micro-tribes, of passions amplified, there are now more weird people than ever before.

“Be Your Unapologetically Weird Self” “I gave a commencement speech in Minnesota few years ago [at the Carlson School of Management]. The core of it was to be your unapologetically weird self. I think authenticity is one of the most lacking things out there these days.” An excerpt from that speech: “Weirdness is why we adore our friends. . . . Weir

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We all eventually grow up and realize that imitation as a means to achieving coolness leaves you in pretty rough shape—largely trading your life, time, and freedom for what is considered “cool”. Taking jobs because they’re prestigious, instead of because they are in alignment with you. Spending money on objects, experiences, and status symbols that... See more

Let your life reflect your true self . Lean into the quirks in your style. Let your interests roam free. Be passionate about what you love, about who you love. Lean into your weird. Say what you want to say. Do what you want to do. Feed your curiosity. Befriend the people you actually align with, instead of “cool” people that hold social signal val... See more

When communicating with your fans and contacts, don’t try to sound bigger than you are.

Don’t use the corporate “we”. Say “I”. Fans want to connect with you as a person, not as a brand.

Don’t appear flawless. Show a charming flaw. Confidence attracts, but vulnerability endears.

Definitely don’t use corporate-speak to try to sound like you’re a big ... See more