I have been hearing a lot of talk about mantras lately. So many people around me have been referencing their own (I heard one again yesterday -- the word "adventure" resonated strongly to the friend with whom I was speaking … now she tries to look at all situations with a sense of adventure) and I see "find your mantra" in so many places as I am on my own path out of a few years that haven’t been my happiest. But what is a mantra?  

So I just learned where the word comes from, and the definition ranges from hymn to slogan, but what does it really mean? I keep thinking it's supposed to be some magical word or phrase that solves all my worries and keeps me on track.  

In branding we outline the brand mantra (vs promise) as what the brand fundamentally is to employees, partners and customers. But what about a saying or phrase that fundamentally represents me? Or better yet, something that can help me elevate my own path?

I've been doing some research on the subject. Should it be easier, and just come to me? Probably, right? I assume the "just do it" and "I'm lovin' it" people at nike and mcdonald's did their research too though.

For some further reading on the subject, check out this link: Mantras

It has some great background and lists a few of the most famous Sanskrit and Buddhist mantras/chants.