“They used to tell me my face was, well, weird,” says Gisele Bündchen.  But “by 2009, with an estimated personal worth of $150 million, she had banked more than any other mannequin in history.”  This month’s edition of Vogue Magazine features the supermodel on its cover.

The article mentions Gisele’s “cheerful professionalism,” her “extraordinary industriousness,” and the fact that she is “totally illuminated, and it comes from within,” as the reasons for her success.  Of course, being a supermodel, she has other assets that also contribute to her worldwide appeal.  Bündchen’s story is a good Outfluence lesson for all of us.  The actor, author, musician and comedian Steve Martin says, when asked how to be successful in Hollywood, “Be so good that they can’t ignore you.”  Outward beauty will only get a person so far.  Inner strength and attractiveness,  combined with ability, are the difference-makers when it comes to long-term success.

Isn’t it interesting how often we discover that the most successful people are able to overcome their so-called flaws through hard work, a good attitude, and a pleasing personality – all silent communicators that speak to who they are as people.  Early in her career Gisele was repeatedly rejected and, according to Vogue, “they saw problems everywhere” in her physical features.  She was hurt by the negative comments until her father gave her some good advice and a little pep talk.  At that point Gisele decided, “I am not going to listen to people who make me feel bad.”

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