We tend to look at pushing the envelope, innovation, as a luxury that only big brands can afford to do. Nothing could be further from the truth! In fact, pushing the envelope is as much a way of life, as it is an innovative act. 

Most have heard of the importance of surrounding yourself with a good team of experts. But are you doing the three things that ensure the expert advice that you're getting is put to good use? A circle of excellence will do little good unless you are using their counsel wisely. 

Tell your story as a brand is not about all the "stuff" you offer. It all comes down to on thing, and if you're not doing that one thing, your brand story will fall flat. 

There is no direct relationship between your ad spend and the results you get. There are tons of study, some decades long, that have proven this to be true. All that said, evaluating the effectiveness of your advertising is doable when your viewing your ad spend through these four filters. 

Adding value to your brand, no matter the industry, no matter the size of your organization, involves a lot more than you think. In fact, the best added value is often invisible at first glance. 

Do a deep dive on most legendary, contemporary brands, and you'll find they have one thing in common- building a specific type of brand was the top priority. If the top priority is building a business, you'll most likely end up stuck in the job called "owner" versus passionately pursuing the brand of your dreams. 

As a business owner or creator of some type, it's important to know your limitations. You don't have to do everything! If your brand is to fully realize it's potential, you will have to be open to marketing guidance that may push you out of your comfort zone.