If you know me, you’ll know that the three words Make Your Mark are very dear to me. They’re the title of my coaching framework, the core of my personalised programme created to help people develop their mental, physical, verbal, and vocal confidence and impact.
Most importantly, they’re the words that inspire and drive me daily as I work to help people make a meaningful impact on others and the world around them.
Whether you know me or not, this blog is my chance to take you behind the scenes of what Make Your Mark truly means and - more importantly - how you can apply it to your life.
What Does Make Your Mark Actually Mean?
The phrase Make Your Mark resonates with people universally. It has been defined, redefined, and personified by iconic figures from various walks of life. Here are three interpretations that inspire me deeply:
Barack Obama once said,
"Making your mark on the world is hard. If it were easy, everybody would do it… It takes patience, it takes commitment, and it comes with plenty of failure along the way. The real test is whether you learn from failure and persevere."
Antony Gormley, celebrated sculptor, highlights something innate in us when he reflects,
"I believe the making of marks is a fundamental human need. It has been part of our survival from Palaeolithic times. It is also a basic human right. You give any child from the age of two onwards a sheet of paper and a way of making a mark and they will have a go."
Helen Mirren, celebrated actor, encourages us not to wait for permission, saying,
"If you want to make your mark on the world, you’ve got to go out and do it. Don’t be shy; be adventurous."
What lies at the core of all these philosophies is one simple principle—to make your mark is to make an impact. But how exactly can we do that? It’s neither as mystical nor as unattainable as it may sound.
How Do You Make Your Mark?
For me, making your mark boils down to mastering four key components of yourself:
Mindset
Body language
Speech
Voice
A confident mindset is the foundation for everything you do. Once you've got that, it’s about knowing how to physically present yourself, articulate your thoughts clearly and concisely, and use your voice in an impactful way. These tools ensure that you're not only noticed but also remembered for the value and perspective you bring to the table. There’s no right or wrong way to go about this. But understanding a bit about your mind, body, speech (your words), and voice can help you use them intentionally and authentically.
But it all starts with one essential ingredient...
Self-Belief is the Key
Making your mark starts within. If you can’t believe in yourself, it’s hard (if not impossible) to inspire others. Barack Obama’s words about patience and perseverance ring especially true here. Challenges, setbacks (not failures!), and roadblocks will test you. Yet with a confident mindset and a clear plan, these moments become the building blocks for your success.
Finding a coach can be incredibly helpful in this process. A good coach gives you the tools to clarify what you want, devise strategies to get there, plan how you'll handle those inevitable setbacks with resilience, and hold yourself accountable when you don't.
However, as I realised early in my coaching career, self-belief alone isn’t enough. Without the ability to effectively communicate your thoughts—through your body language, speech, and voice—they’ll remain stuck in your mind, leaving opportunities and potential impact on the sidelines. Addressing these other components ensures your message lands.
Now, let's get practical. To inspire you, let's return to the three well-known figures I mentioned above...
Make Your Mark Like Obama
Barack Obama is renowned for his ability to move people, not just with his words but with his entire presence.
The former President’s poised body language, deliberate speech patterns, and authentic voice command attention effortlessly.
Whether he’s delivering a defining keynote or engaging in a relaxed interview, he exudes calmness, confidence, and control.
What We Can Learn:
Body Language Tip: Own the space around you - stand tall, with open, relaxed postures that invite listeners to connect.
Speech Tip: Take your time. Obama often uses speaking secrets like strategic pauses to emphasise his points and give listeners time to absorb them.
Voice Tip: Speak with clarity and authority, varying your tone to emphasise key messages.
Make Your Mark Like Gormley
Antony Gormley approaches “making your mark” with creativity and introspection. Famous for his sculptures, Gormley’s work pushes boundaries and provokes thought, proving that actions can speak louder than words.
His art reflects his deeper philosophy about humanity’s urge to leave a unique legacy.
What We Can Learn:
Mindset Tip: Honour your urge to create - whether it’s art, a business, or a conversation. Listen to your inner coach and trust that your ideas are worth exploring.
Body Language Tip: Be yourself, whether giving a presentation or chatting one-on-one. If eye contact or standing still feels tough, don’t stress - instead let people know.
Speech Tip: Sometimes, words aren’t enough.
Use actions or visuals to complement your ideas.
Make Your Mark Like Mirren
Helen Mirren embodies confidence in all dimensions of her life - from her powerful on-screen performances to her candid and inspiring interviews. She's unapologetically adventurous and uses her voice, both literally and figuratively, to inspire those around her.
What We Can Learn:
Mindset Tip: Don’t seek perfection; seek growth. Even if you're unsure, say "yes" to new opportunities.
Body Language Tip: Move with purpose - Mirren’s calm yet determined physicality reflects her inner confidence.
Voice Tip: Develop your vocal brand. Knowing how your vocal traits affect the way people perceive and interact with you can help you get the results you’re looking for.
Reflect and Take Action
Everyone’s approach to making their mark is unique, but I think the key principles are the same. Your mindset, body language, speech, and voice are the foundations. Work on these, and the rest will flow. Here’s something for you to think about:
How will you make your mark this year on the people, projects, and places that truly matter to you?
Write it down. Internalise it. And start living it.
The Business Voice Coach
If you’re an HR leader, check out my corporate Make Your Mark workshops and keynote - great for teams wanting to enhance their impact. Plus, sign up for my newsletter to stay in the loop about my digital learning programme launching later this year - it’s perfect for both teams and individuals!
Hozzászólások