Marketing as a Spiritual Practice

October 1, 1:10 AMSF Marketing and PR ExaminerSusan Harrow

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Publicity with spirit

By Guest Blogger Pat McHenry Sullivan

At the heart of any practical task is a spiritual one that is rich in meaning, purpose, integrity and the capacity for great joy.  Whatever practical marketing activities you need to do -- such as networking or writing marketing materials -- the more those activities are anchored in the heart and soul of your business, the more satisfying and effective your marketing is.

On a spiritual level, marketing is an act of faith in the worth and benefits of your products and services and in the market itself.  It's also an act of respect and hospitality, of letting your light shine so others can find you in a way that leaves them utterly clear about your offerings and free to say yes or no to them.

I used to believe that marketing is sleazy, scary and impossible for anyone but the most popular person to do well.  Then I read Susan Harrow's book Sell Yourself Without Selling Your Soul, A Woman's Guide to Promoting Herself, Her Business, or Her Cause with Integrity & Spirit  and Carol Costello's The Soul of Selling.  Over time, marketing has become a rich and satisfying spiritual practice that draws more of the very customers who appreciate what I offer.  Here are some practices that have worked for me:

1. Seek guidance for all marketing efforts.  In addition to silent meditation, I love a simple affirmative prayer: "I choose to see clearly the benefits of my products and services and how I can best reach those who will benefit from them."
2. Focus on service, not ego fulfillment.  Marketing is not about you and how popular or wonderful you are. It's about letting people who could benefit from your offerings know they are available and how to get them, so do whatever you must to dare to speak your truth, no matter who might laugh at you.
3. Study the great spiritual teachers and how they communicate.  The Dalai Lama is a prime example.  He never preaches or pushes his message.  He always lives it authentically with humor and dignity.  Go thou and do likewise.
4. Be clear about your essential values.  The ancient carpenter's level and plumb symbolize to me being on the level with others and on true with myself.  The clearer these values, the easier it is to know what marketing tasks are essential and which are not, what is mine to do and what needs to be delegated.

Pat McHenry Sullivan helps individuals, businesses and nonprofit organizations create inspired strategy for all their practical challenges.  She is the co-founder of the Spirit and Work Resource Center and author of Work with Meaning, Work with Joy: Bringing Your Spirit to Any Job.  Contact Pat at 510-530-0284 or www.spiritworkandmoney.com.

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