Make a list of the characteristics people most admire about you. You’ll need to solicit the help of your family and friends for this one. The process will help define who you are—and what you do. Remember, these are the characteristics that make you real. Let them shine in a real way.

Linda Alvarado is an American entrepreneur who started her own construction company in 1976 with a $2,500 loan from her parents. Alvarado Construction, based in Denver, has become one of the fastest growing commercial general contracting firms in the country. In fact, it was one of three firms that built the new stadium for the Denver Broncos, and it was also part of the construction of the Denver International Airport and the Colorado Convention Center. Still, people really noticed Alvarado in 1991. That’s the year she became the first Hispanic to own a major baseball franchise–the Colorado Rockies. In addition to being the recipient of numerous awards, she also served on President Clinton’s Advisory Commission of Educational Excellence for Hispanic Americans. Clearly, Alvarado loves what she does—and she does it as a proudly passionate female entrepreneur.

How about you? Do you love who you are—and what you do? Leave a comment!

For more inspiration, check out my recent article about expressing your unique personal brand as a marketable business brand on WomenEntrepreneur.com.