Value vs. Validation

What a year! As you wrap up 2011 and look forward to the beginning of 2012, I want to simply say thanks for reading Social Impact this year.

I started my company, eventr, just over a year ago and it's been an up-and down ride that has opened my eyes to so many new ideas and opportunities. It has been great to share them in a small way here each week.

As you start a new year and think about where things are headed for you, in what has become a fast moving culture, consider this one: The depth of the evolution each day in real-time is not only changing the way you communicate and market your brands, it's creating a shift with sociology, memory and every aspect of life.

If you can take one thing away from my column this year, I hope it's this one.

Look at your passion and uncover the power that drives your brand, or what you do personally that is unique to only you.

Then turn the focus around and ask how it has purpose in service to others.

Finally, use that passion and purpose to connect in a way that no one else can, and stay disciplined on that unique proposition in everything you do.

The strategy will change from a mindset of validation where you start with confirming that what you do meets the needs of your users, listeners and customers.

And will instead build a foundation on real value, where the unique passion of you, or the brand, is the centerpiece of purpose to meet the needs of your audience and give them the power to help co-create, collaborate and interact across every touch point.

Do it and the New Year will definitely bring new wealth.

Happy Holidays and here's to your best year yet.