Self-Renewal: 6 Steps to Break Comfort Zones for Strategic Growth

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As organizations face rapid market disruption and evolving leadership demands, Feb. 2 marks Self-Renewal Day, a pivotal time for business leaders to recalibrate strategies and personal development.

Growth does not happen by accident; it happens by choice. Self-Renewal Day is designed to prompt people to evaluate their lives, challenge complacency, and take deliberate steps toward personal and professional renewal.

All the Right Reasons | Kevin GuestThis annual observance is a critical reminder that sustained corporate success and operational advancement begin with the individual leader’s commitment to breaking free from the status quo.

Comfort is seductive, but nothing meaningful grows there. Renewal requires movement. It requires courage. It requires choosing long-term fulfillment over short-term ease.

Self-Renewal: Realignment for Purpose

One of the most powerful examples I shared in my book, All the Right Reasons, is my decision to walk away from a lifelong dream of becoming a full-time rock musician. Music was my passion. I had talent. I had momentum. But I felt a deeper pull toward leadership, service, and building something that would impact lives at scale.

That choice was not easy. It meant letting go of an identity I loved and starting again in unfamiliar territory. It also became the turning point that led to leadership at a global company and a life aligned with deeper values.

That is self-renewal: Not reinvention for show but realignment for purpose.

I’ve learned the hardest choices are often the right ones. Renewal begins when you decide who you are becoming, not just who you have been.

The Butch O'Hare Principle - Butch O'Hare - All the Right ReasonsIn All the Right Reasons, I illustrate this principle through the “Butch O’Hare Principle,” which emphasizes that every individual has the power to change. I recount the story of Butch O’Hare, a World War II pilot who transformed from an undisciplined young man into a hero through rigorous self-discipline and a commitment to change.

This anecdote underscores a vital lesson for modern executives: transformation requires the courage to abandon familiar patterns in favor of difficult growth.

For leaders navigating complex changes, stagnation is the enemy of progress. The most successful executives are those who continuously optimize their skill sets and challenge their own assumptions. To facilitate this journey of renewal, here are six concrete steps for leaders ready to elevate their performance:

1. Conduct a Personal Audit

Write down where you are coasting. Career. Health. Relationships. Skills. Growth stalls where discomfort is avoided.

2. Reconnect to Your Core Values

Values, not ambition, should drive decisions. Start by identifying three non-negotiable principles that guide how you live and lead.

3. Make One Courageous Decision

Renewal does not require 10 changes; it requires one honest one. End something that no longer fits. Start something you have delayed, and stick with it consistently.

4. Prioritize High-Value Relationships

In All the Right Reasons, the “Dorothy Principle” states that nothing is more important than relationships. Evaluate your network. Are you surrounded by peers who challenge your thinking and drive you toward strategic alignment or those who merely echo your current views?

5. Commit to Positive Self-Talk

The “Cardboard Keyboard Principle” highlights the impact of internal dialogue. Leaders must cultivate a mindset that reinforces capability and vision, empowering them to lead teams with conviction and clarity.

6. Reframe Resilience

Resilience is the capacity to adapt and thrive amid a crisis. View setbacks as essential experiences for future decision-making, not failures.

A Way of Life

Life rewards those who act with intention. Renewal is not a one-time event. It is a way of living for all the right reasons. February 2 is the invitation. The next step is yours.

By integrating these steps, business leaders can transform Self-Renewal Day from a calendar event into a catalyst for long-term strategic growth.

It’s an opportunity to empower yourself, innovate within your role, and navigate the future with renewed purpose.

I shared a version of this article in a news release on Feb. 2, 2026. USANA Health Sciences, a global leader in health and wellness products, has long recognized the importance of social wellness in building a successful business. Since its founding in 1992, USANA has focused on clear, concise communication to build trust with its customers and distributors in 25 countries. For more information about USANA Health Sciences and its dedication to promoting health, wellness, and entrepreneurial success, visit USANA.com. 

Foundational ‘Why’ is Critical for Organizational Success

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In my years of leading teams and pursuing excellence, I’ve observed a common thread that separates lasting success from fleeting wins. It isn’t merely about what we do, but why we do it. Understanding this core motivation is the single most powerful catalyst for breakthrough performance.

So many leaders get caught in the cycle of daily tasks, focusing on the “what” and “how,” yet they neglect the foundational “why.” What is the ultimate purpose driving your organization forward? What is the deep-seated reason your team shows up every day?

Empower Organization with Purpose | Kevin Guest

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Without a clear answer, even the most ambitious efforts can feel lost and directionless (is that a word?). Finding that clarity is the first step toward genuine strategic advancement. So I ask my teams: How do we achieve it? It begins with a candid assessment of the present.

Empower Your Organization with Purpose

First, you must observe your current practices with an objective eye. To me, this means looking beyond established routines and processes. Analyze what works, what doesn’t, and what has become an institutional habit rather than a strategic asset. Our team has found huge value in this single practice.

By scrutinizing our own operations, we’ve identified redundancies and unearthed opportunities that were hidden in plain sight. This isn’t about finding fault; it’s about gaining the crucial insights needed to build a stronger future.

Second, you must challenge existing assumptions. Every industry, every company, is built on a set of beliefs about what is possible. But are those beliefs still valid today? Are they enabling growth or creating barriers? True innovation begins when you empower your teams to question the status quo.

For example, ask “What if we approached this problem from a completely different angle? What if the market has changed in a way we haven’t yet acknowledged?” By fostering a culture of intellectual curiosity, you transform your organization from one that simply follows trends to one that creates them.

Clarity Lights the Path Forward

This leads directly to the third element: exploring new opportunities for growth. Clarity illuminates the path forward. Once you understand your purpose and have challenged your limitations, you can begin to execute a plan with precision and confidence.

For us in the nutritional supplement industry, the vision is clear: to become the Gold Standard. This isn’t just a slogan; it’s a strategic directive that informs every decision we make, from research and development to customer experience. Your vision must be equally bold and specific. It should be the benchmark against which all progress is measured.

However, a vision without execution is merely a dream. A well-crafted plan is essential, but it is accountability that truly powers results.

Accountability transforms intention into action. It creates a framework where every team member understands their role in achieving the collective goal and takes ownership of their contribution. When accountability is woven into your culture, performance is no longer a matter of hope, it becomes a predictable outcome. It drives a cycle of continual improvement, where successes are celebrated and setbacks become valuable learning experiences.

A Disciplined Process

Ultimately, achieving extraordinary success is a disciplined process. It starts with an unwavering commitment to understanding your “why.” From there, you must gain clarity by observing, challenging, and exploring. With that clarity, you can execute a strategic plan aimed at industry leadership.

Finally, you must embed accountability at every level to ensure those plans deliver tangible, measurable results.

I encourage you to apply these principles not as a checklist, but as a continuous leadership philosophy. Empower your organization with purpose, and you will unlock its greatest potential.

Are we connected on LinkedIn? There, I share posts about professional development skills, self-care reminders, and other relevant topics.

Timeless Lessons for a 2026 Growth Mindset

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As leaders everywhere set sights on the new year, I encourage professionals to embrace a growth mindset as the key to lasting achievement and fulfillment.

Success is about the experiences you have, the relationships you build, and the lessons you apply.

As Executive Chairman of USANA Health Sciences, four traits stand out to me when it comes to building a growth mindset:

  1. Resilience to navigate setbacks
  2. Curiosity to keep learning
  3. Purpose to fuel meaningful action
  4. Awareness to identify both opportunities and risks

Leaders and teams who lean into these qualities can see real results, whether in professional or personal development.

In All the Right Reasons, I recall a pivotal moment early in my career when a rushed business decision and ignoring my gut led to a major financial loss.

It stung, without a doubt. But that pain reshaped the way I do business today, and I’ve found that the hardest moments often teach us the most. That’s where growth lives.

Growth Mindset Strategies

For anyone looking to take their own mindset to the next level in 2026, I suggest four initial strategies:

  1. Find mentors who challenge and inspire you
  2. Practice positive self-talk, which is more powerful than most think
  3. Look for ways to serve others, inside and outside the office
  4. Never underestimate the quiet nudge of intuition; it can point you to your best decisions

I shared a version of this article in a news release on Jan. 5, 2026. USANA Health Sciences, a global leader in health and wellness products, has long recognized the importance of social wellness in building a successful business. Since its founding in 1992, USANA has focused on clear, concise communication to build trust with its customers and distributors in 25 countries. For more information about USANA Health Sciences and its dedication to promoting health, wellness, and entrepreneurial success, visit USANA.com. 

How Underdogs Flip the Script & Win Big

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Have you ever found yourself cheering for the underdog? I mean, really rooting for them? We all do it. Think about it: Rocky Balboa, Harry Potter, Rudy, David and Goliath. These aren’t just great stories; they’re blueprints for success. They show us that the biggest wins don’t always come from having the most resources. They come from having the most heart, the sharpest strategy, and unwavering self-belief.

Today is National Underdog Day, the perfect time to look closer at this. What is the secret sauce that makes underdogs so powerful? And more important, how can we, as leaders and professionals, harness that same energy to shatter expectations, especially when the odds are stacked against us?

The Strategic Power of Being Underestimated

Underdogs have this incredible ability to surprise everyone. In business, just like in the movies, being seen as the long shot can actually be a massive advantage. When you learn to use these unique strengths, they become your secret weapon.

The Freedom to Innovate

Here’s something I’ve seen time and again: the front-runners often get stuck. They have established processes, reputations to protect, and a whole lot of red tape. For them, changing direction is like trying to turn a cruise ship in a bathtub. But for the underdog? It’s an open field. There’s less to lose and everything to gain.

This creates an environment ripe for bold experiments and lightning-fast pivots. When I was building my own video production company, we didn’t have layers of management or outdated systems holding us back. We could move quickly, think creatively, and completely change our game plan overnight. That agility is a superpower.

Unmatched Hunger and Drive

Success can make you comfortable. Comfort can make you complacent. But underdogs? They are never complacent. They fight for every single inch. Think about Rudy Ruettiger. Everyone told him he was too small to play football for Notre Dame. But he was too driven to listen. Every single setback just made him more focused. Every small win fueled his fire.

That kind of relentless drive, born from navigating tough challenges, is priceless. It doesn’t matter if you’re leading a multinational corporation or launching a new project. That hunger is what separates good from great.

The Element of Surprise

Let’s be honest, the big players are usually so busy competing with each other that they barely notice the smaller competitor in their rearview mirror. That’s the underdog’s moment. While the giants are distracted, the underdog is quietly building strength, refining their strategy, and waiting for the perfect time to strike.

Like David with his sling, the underdog’s greatest weapon is surprise. Your relative obscurity is your camouflage. It gives you the space to grow, innovate, and prepare to soar past the competition when they least expect it.

3 Ways to Cultivate Your Inner Underdog Kevin GuestCultivating Your Inner Underdog

You don’t have to be the smallest player in the market to benefit from an underdog mentality. In fact, the most successful leaders I know actively cultivate this mindset, no matter their company’s size. It’s what drives sustainable growth, continuous innovation, and powerful resilience. So, how can you build it for yourself and your team? I have three suggestions.

1. Embrace Discomfort

Comfort is the enemy of progress. It’s just that simple. Underdogs are used to discomfort and scarcity; they’ve learned how to thrive in uncertain environments. As a leader, you must be willing to push beyond the status quo. Take on those challenging projects. Give your teams the autonomy to experiment, to try new things, and yes, even to fail.

Ask yourself: When was the last time you did something truly uncomfortable to chase a goal? When did you give your team the freedom they need to innovate and excel? Pushing boundaries is where growth happens.

2. Foster Unshakable Self-Belief

Every underdog story begins with belief. Sometimes, it’s just one person who holds that belief against all odds. Think of Harry Potter, the orphan living under the stairs who believed he was meant for something more. Leaders must be the chief evangelists for their mission and their people, especially when the pressure is on.

Your confidence as a leader is the bedrock. It provides the stability and inspiration for your team to achieve incredible things. When you believe, they believe.

3. Celebrate Resilience

Setbacks are not failures. They are data points. They are opportunities to learn, adapt, and come back stronger. Rocky Balboa didn’t win his first fight against Apollo Creed. But that loss made him a better fighter and set him up for his ultimate victory.

In business, we have to treat setbacks as stepping stones. We need to de-stigmatize failure and build a culture that celebrates resilience, learning, and adaptability. That is how you build a team that can weather any storm.

Your Turn to Rise to the Challenge

The underdog story speaks to a fundamental human truth: we are capable of so much more when we refuse to accept limitations and meet adversity with determination. Passion, focus, and resilience can overcome almost any obstacle. History and business are filled with examples.

So today, on National Underdog Day, take a look at the horizon. Identify the challenges and the Goliaths you face. Then, make a conscious choice to embrace the underdog’s path. Be hungrier. Move faster. Cultivate that unshakeable belief in yourself and your team. Let this be the start of your own comeback story, because the underdog’s advantage is real, and it’s yours for the taking.

Are we connected on LinkedIn? There, I share posts about professional development skills, self-care reminders, and other relevant topics.

The Most Meaningful Gifts Are the Ones Money Can’t Buy

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Creative gestures and shared experiences form the foundation of lasting love.

National Make a Gift Day (Dec. 3) is a call to generosity and intentionality, encouraging people to craft something meaningful for someone they care about.

Meaningful Gifts | Kevin GuestLong before I led USANA Health Sciences or became a bestselling author, I was a college student trying to win the heart of a woman who would eventually become my wife. The problem? She had a serious boyfriend.

I knew if I was going to win her heart, I had to be extraordinary—and extraordinarily creative. That meant no typical dinners or movies. Instead, I turned dates into personalized experiences: a surprise meal and firepit outside ancient ice caves, a science-lab-themed dinner, drinking through beakers and test tubes, and impromptu jam sessions where couples formed their own makeshift bands in the music room.

We came up with all sorts of creative activities. And we still enjoy creative dates to this day.

Decades later, my wife and I are still crafting creative memories. For our 30th anniversary, we leaned into humor and heart, camping at a Walmart in our RV and dressing in thrifted leisure suits to make a music video for our kids.

Gifts aren’t always wrapped in bows. Sometimes the best gift is presence, effort, and creating a memory together. Those are the things that last.

I often speak about the power of service and creativity in building strong relationships—both personally and professionally. My book All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony explores these themes through real-life stories and heartfelt lessons.

Service and Creativity: The Lasting Impact

The principles behind creative giving (e.g., intentionality, presence, and connection) can also strengthen relationships, boost resilience, and inspire service. In fact, my book’s proceeds support the USANA Foundation, which provides food and nutrition to underserved communities worldwide.

Service is one of the most powerful ways we can uplift others and nourish our own well-being.

To date, All the Right Reasons has provided more than 1.8 million meals through its partnership with the USANA Foundation. Each book purchased contributes 40 meals to those in need.

I shared a version of this article in a news release on Dec. 3, 2025. USANA Health Sciences, a global leader in health and wellness products, has long recognized the importance of social wellness in building a successful business. Since its founding in 1992, USANA has focused on clear, concise communication to build trust with its customers and distributors in 25 countries. For more information about USANA Health Sciences and its dedication to promoting health, wellness, and entrepreneurial success, visit USANA.com. 

Smart Leaders Learn from Everyone

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Great leaders know one thing for sure: growth isn’t a solo journey.

The most transformative insights often come from the people around us. That’s the heart of what I call the Plato Principle, a concept I explore in my book, All the Right Reasons. It’s about committing to learn from everyone and intentionally broadening your perspective beyond your own experiences.

Here’s the beauty of it: every person you meet has lived through something you haven’t. They carry unique experiences, knowledge, and perspectives that can challenge your assumptions, refine your thinking, and sharpen your judgment. All it takes is a little curiosity. When you approach conversations with an open mind, every interaction becomes an opportunity to grow.

This holiday season, as you gather with family and friends, you have the perfect chance to put the Plato Principle into action. So, how can you use it to fuel your own growth? Here are a few simple steps to transform your conversations into something truly meaningful.

The Plato PrincipleApply the Plato Principle

1. Lead with Curiosity

Instead of waiting for an opening to share your own thoughts, start by asking better, more open-ended questions. Move beyond surface-level topics and try prompts like, “What’s a challenge you’ve been thinking about recently?” or “What’s a perspective you hold that others often disagree with?” WOW. That can instantly invite deeper, more meaningful dialogue.

2. Listen to Understand, Not to Respond

Remember, the goal is to absorb, not to rebut. When someone shares an opinion that differs from your own, resist the immediate urge to counter-argue. Instead, focus on understanding their reasoning. A simple phrase like, “Let’s get curious about that,” can shift the dynamic from debate to discovery.

3. Seek Out Different Viewpoints

Make a conscious effort to engage with people whose backgrounds and roles differ from yours. At a family gathering, this might mean talking to a younger cousin about their view on technology. In a professional setting, it could involve having lunch with someone from a completely different department. Each conversation offers a unique lens on the world.

———

I’ve noticed that the best leaders, the ones who truly stand out, are always learning from others. They build stronger teams, spark innovation, and consistently deliver better results. They are also the ones who bring fresh ideas to the table and help everyone level up.

When you embrace the Plato Principle, even a casual holiday conversation can become a turning point for your leadership journey. You might be surprised by the insights you uncover, insights that sharpen your perspective and strengthen your connections with the people who matter most.

Are we connected on LinkedIn? There, I share posts about professional development skills, self-care reminders, and other relevant topics. Here’s a video from 2019 in which I discuss the Plato Principle in action.

Lead with Authenticity, Empathy, & Moral Clarity

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As business leaders worldwide focus on re-energizing workforces after years of upheaval, I urge CEOs to lead with renewed authenticity, empathy, and moral clarity. I call these principles “the real foundation of sustainable success.”

No doubt, technology and strategy will always matter. But what truly binds a company together is trust. When people feel seen, valued, and inspired, they do their best work, and that’s how you create a culture that thrives through any storm.

This notion aligns with a growing leadership movement that emphasizes employee well-being, personalized experiences, and transparent communication. As CEOs champion what many call the “great re-engagement,” I believe the key lies not in new perks or digital platforms, but in timeless human connection.

The best leaders don’t just talk about values; they live them. Every decision should be made for all the right reasons, not just the convenient ones.

A Leader Guided by Principle and Purpose

In All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony, I draw on my personal experiences—from rebuilding after loss to navigating corporate challenges—to illustrate that values-driven leadership is both a moral compass and a business advantage.

I recount scrapping a multimillion-dollar product batch at USANA rather than compromising on quality, a decision that solidified USANA’s reputation for integrity. When you commit to your core values, you change your destiny.

That principle echoes my current call for executives to prioritize holistic employee wellness—mental, physical, and financial health—as a business imperative, not a benefit.

You can’t separate people’s well-being from their performance. When leaders invest in the whole person, they build loyalty that no salary can buy.

Central to this philosophy is what I call “The Dorothy Principle.” It’s a concept that says, Nothing is more important than relationships. Genuine connections are the most valuable asset in any endeavor.

People matter more than things. I partly measure success by the number of lives improved as a result of what I do and by the quality of my personal, one-on-one relationships.

This perspective challenges leaders to look beyond transactional interactions and invest in the well-being of those around them.

From Music to Mission

My career reflects a harmony between passion and purpose. A lifelong musician, I once gave up my dream of becoming a full-time rock performer to follow a deeper calling.

Music taught me about rhythm and harmony. But life taught me that true harmony comes from aligning what you do with what you believe.

This “life in harmony” philosophy has shaped both my leadership at USANA and my mentorship of emerging leaders worldwide. All the Right Reasons (Amazon link) reminds readers that lasting success comes from integrity, gratitude, and service to others.

Looking Ahead

I envision a future where companies serve not only shareholders, but also stakeholders, including employees, families, and communities. If we want to re-engage our teams, we must re-engage our humanity. That’s the kind of leadership that endures.

I shared a version of this article in a news release on Nov. 3, 2025. All the Right Reasons offers further insights into expressing empathy and finding purpose. All proceeds go to feeding hungry children, and each book purchase provides 40 meals. 

USANA Health Sciences, a global leader in health and wellness products, has long recognized the importance of social wellness in building a successful business. From its founding in 1992, USANA has focused on clear and concise communication to build trust with its customers and distributors in 25 countries. For more information about USANA Health Sciences and its dedication to promoting health, wellness, and entrepreneurial success, visit USANA.com. 

The Power of Presence: My Conversation on Off the Comma

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Recently, I had the privilege of joining Paul Briley on the “Off the Comma” podcast, a conversation that left me energized, reflective, and deeply grateful for the professional path I walk. We didn’t just discuss leadership or communication; we went straight to the core of what it means to grow, to lead, and to stay true to yourself when the stakes are high and the pressure is on.

Throughout the interview, I shared pivotal moments from my journey, like the time I stood backstage at the Grand Ole Opry, heart racing, facing a panic attack moments before performing. In those raw, private seconds, I learned the power of presence. Through intentional breathing, I calmed my heart, anchored my mind, and reminded myself: fear is part of the process.

I’ve learned that sometimes, the smartest move is not to silence fear but to ask it, “What can you teach me?” That curiosity became my greatest ally, helping me not only on stage but in the boardroom, too.

A Life in Harmony

Off the Comma Podcast | Episode 110 with Kevin GuestWe explored the art of reflection. How often do we rush from one challenge to the next, never pausing to ask what went well or what could be better? I emphasized that real growth begins when you learn to reflect thoughtfully—celebrating wins and bravely confronting moments you felt stuck. Through this lens, even setbacks become lessons.

Negative self-talk, that persistent inner critic, was another focus. I talked about the discipline it takes to catch yourself mid-thought and redirect the narrative. Imagine what’s possible when you replace self-doubt with honest self-assessment: a crucial skill for anyone leading a team, raising a family, or forging their own path.

Living in harmony with your values was another major throughline. For me, integrity stands above all else. It’s realizing the true test is what you do when no one is watching. Harmony isn’t just about doing the right thing when it’s easy; it’s choosing to align your actions with your deepest beliefs, even if it means embracing discomfort or taking the road less traveled. That’s the foundation on which enduring careers, meaningful relationships, and lasting reputations are built.

An Impactful Presence

Another deeply personal revelation we discussed was untangling codependency—a lesson learned from early family dynamics, wanting to keep the peace, and putting others first at the expense of self. The line is thin between supporting others and stifling their growth or losing sight of your own. High-performing professionals, parents, and leaders: your presence is more impactful when it’s not tied to people-pleasing, but to genuine connection.

I told Paul that I’m just a kid from a small town in Montana who wanted to be a rock star. Along the way, I hit more bumps than I care to count. But each time I stumbled, I remembered to be patient, to breathe, and to let the tough moments teach me something new. That’s the essence of “getting off the comma”—it may be hard work, but it’s the only way to move forward.

Watch/Listen to the Full Episode

There’s much more to discover in our full conversation: practical strategies, honest anecdotes, and insights you can bring to your own leadership and self-care journey.

If you’re ready to challenge yourself, learn from fear, and lead with integrity, I encourage you to listen to the full episode.

Are we connected on LinkedIn? There, I share posts about professional development skills, self-care reminders, and other relevant topics.

Service Mentality: 6 Ways Giving Back Strengthens Leaders

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As Emotional Wellness Month begins, I believe service is one of the most overlooked but powerful ways to strengthen mental well-being and emotional balance, especially for those in leadership roles.

Service is the clearest expression of our best selves. When leaders serve others, it keeps them grounded, emotionally regulated, and focused on what truly matters.

Giving back is more than an act of kindness; it’s a vital leadership mindset. My long-standing commitment to service reinforces the idea that emotional strength is built through outward compassion.

Philanthropy and purpose-driven work don’t just help others; they anchor us. When we look beyond ourselves, we become more balanced, more robust, and more in tune with what truly matters.

In that spirit, here are six powerful ways that simple acts of service, such as volunteering or offering support, can transform our thinking.

6 Ways Service Strengthens Mental Resilience

1. It disrupts negative thinking.

Helping someone else short-circuits our inner critic and re-centers us in purpose.

2. It restores clarity and perspective.

Service helps us remember we’re part of something bigger. It shrinks stress and builds stronger empathy.

3. It energizes the giver.

A lifelong musician, I liken generosity to music. The more you give, the more alive you feel. Giving is like harmony in song—you feel it resonate.

4. It rewires and reshapes emotional patterns.

Service strengthens our neural pathways for gratitude, empathy, and courage. It becomes easier to stay calm in difficult moments.

5. It grounds and reaffirms your identity.

In giving, we remember who we really are. Not our title, not our task list, but our values.

6. It strengthens bonds and fosters connections.

I’ve seen that teams who serve together are stronger together. Mental health isn’t just individual—it’s relational.

Unwavering Service & Loyalty

All the Right Reasons | Kevin GuestIn All the Right Reasons, I recount personal moments where service to others had a lasting emotional impact.

After years as a trusted bookkeeper for Superior Buildings Lumber Co., my father was gifted a share of the business by its owner, Mr. Crum. When Crum grew older and moved into a nursing home, my father visited him every other day—shaving him, caring for him, and offering steadfast companionship.

My father became like an adopted son to the Crum family because of his unwavering service and loyalty. Dad’s example was a powerful reminder that the most enduring legacies are built through simple, consistent acts of care—not for recognition but out of love and devotion.

Such examples throughout All the Right Reasons illustrate my core belief that the virtue of service is resilience training that strengthens leaders.

To me, wellness is more than nutrition—it’s emotional, physical, social, and spiritual. And nothing nourishes all four quite like service.

I shared a version of this article in a news release on Oct. 1, 2025. All the Right Reasons provides more inspiring examples of self-improvement. All proceeds go to feeding hungry children, and each book purchase provides 40 meals. 

USANA Health Sciences, a global leader in health and wellness products, has long recognized the importance of social wellness in building a successful business. From its founding in 1992, USANA has focused on clear and concise communication to build trust with its customers and distributors in 25 countries. For more information about USANA Health Sciences and its dedication to promoting health, wellness, and entrepreneurial success, visit USANA.com. 

Are You Ready for Your Big Break?

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September is National Preparedness Month, a time when we often think about emergency kits and evacuation plans. While that’s incredibly important, I believe true preparedness extends far beyond that. It’s a mindset and a way of living that gets you ready for the opportunities life will inevitably send your way.

A lifelong friend of mine once told me his secret. He said he owes much of his success to one simple habit: he always tries to think two steps ahead. He’s not a worrier; he’s a preparer. This mindset allows him to anticipate needs, solve problems before they arise, and position himself to say “yes” when a great chance appears.

This resonated with me because I’ve always believed that you can’t depend on luck. You have to be ready for it. It’s a philosophy I call the Hope Diamond Principle: Good things come to those who are prepared. I write all about it in All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony, but here’s one story about the value of being prepared.

I actually learned this lesson firsthand years ago. As a video producer, I had a dream of working with the Smithsonian Institution. I sent letters, made phone calls, and pitched proposals to the curator of the Gem and Mineral Collection. It took persistence, but eventually, I made a connection. My goal was to produce an educational video about their world-famous gemstone collection.

Kevin Guest Holding the Hope Diamond

When I finally met with the curator in Washington, D.C., I was ready. I had done my homework and knew what I wanted to achieve. Because of that preparation, not only did we get the green light to produce the video, but the curator did something extraordinary. He led me into the vault and allowed me to hold the Hope Diamond—all 45.52 carats of it. Actually hold it in my hands!

That moment, cradling one of the world’s most precious jewels, was a powerful reminder. Had I not done the work beforehand, the opportunity would have never materialized. We went on to produce the video, and it sold thousands of copies in museum gift shops across the country. The opportunity was amazing, but it was the preparation that made it all possible.

So, how can you apply the Hope Diamond Principle in your own life? Being proactive requires two things: knowing what you want and doing the work to be ready when the opportunity arrives.

1. Define Your “Why”

What are your goals? Whether it’s advancing in your career, learning a new skill, or strengthening relationships, clarity is the first step. When you know what you’re preparing for, your actions become more focused and effective.

2. Invest in Yourself

Read books, take courses, and find mentors. The work you do today builds the foundation for tomorrow’s success. For example, with music, I’ve always wanted to be ready to play guitar if someone needed me on stage, and that desire drove me to practice relentlessly.

3. Anticipate and Act

Pause and look ahead in your personal and professional life. What skills will be valuable next year? What conversations do you need to start now to build important relationships? Don’t wait to be asked; prepare to be chosen. Think two steps ahead.

Many people miss out on big chances because they simply aren’t ready. This month and for the rest of the year, let’s expand our definition of preparedness. Stock your pantry, yes, but also stock your mind, your skills, and your character. Be ready for your moment. You never know when it will arrive.

Are we connected on LinkedIn? There, I share posts about professional development skills, self-care reminders, and other relevant topics.