Effective Communication: A Cornerstone of Success

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The power of effective communication in business (and in life in general) is incredibly important.

Communication is the cornerstone of success, both professionally and personally. It’s the foundation of strong relationships and successful organizations. In June, we recognize National Effective Communications Month. It’s the perfect time to celebrate this important skill.

Effective Communication | Improve Your SkillsEffective communication builds trust, which is one reason I’ve found that nothing is more important than relationships, than connecting with others, and understanding the other person’s motivation. When relationships align with your own core values, you’re poised to do great things together that benefit those around you.

Effective Communication: 5 Tips to Improve

To help you improve your communication skills, here are five actionable tips.

  1. Active Listening: Pay full attention to the speaker, avoid interrupting, and ask clarifying questions to ensure you understand their message.
  2. Empathy: Put yourself in the other person’s shoes to understand their perspective and feelings.
  3. Clarity and Conciseness: Be clear and concise with simple language to avoid confusion and misinterpretation when delivering your messages.
  4. Nonverbal Communication: Pay attention to body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice, all of which convey important information and emotions.
  5. Feedback and Follow-ups: Encourage feedback from others and follow up on conversations to ensure understanding and maintain open lines of communication.

When done consistently, these five action items show respect, promote open dialogue, and allow for greater understanding. Because we’ve learned effective communication is key to building strong relationships with USANA’s customers and distributors, we strive to ensure that every interaction, whether it’s through our products, marketing materials, or customer service, is clear, concise, and informative.

In professional situations, empathetic and clear communication promotes open dialogue and resolves conflicts, which maintains a positive work environment.

I shared these thoughts in a news release that went out on June 1, 2023, to commemorate Effective Communications Month. All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony, which is available on Amazon, uncovers 12 principles for living a life in harmony and drawing on the power of values to help find life’s success secrets. All proceeds feed hungry children, with each book purchase providing 40 meals.

Let’s GO! with USANA: Start Something Legendary

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I’m a big believer in feeding my mind. As an avid reader, I’m always looking for books that can help me develop personally and professionally. And when I’m on the go, I like to listen to audiobooks and podcasts. One podcast the USANA Family may be familiar with is Let’s GO! I wrote about it nearly two years ago, and now the series features dozens of episodes.

In April, I had the opportunity to appear on the series to talk about goal setting. I invite you to listen to the full episode, Start Something Legendary with Kevin Guest. Here, however, I’d like to highlight a few key points from Let’s GO! that I hope can help you successfully achieve whatever goals you’ve set for yourself.

1. Write down goals, and find an accountability partner.

For me, a goal I set every year is to limit negative self-talk. I’m happy to say it’s a goal I’ve made progress on recently, in part because it’s a goal I wrote down. And it’s a goal in which I have someone helping to hold me accountable whenever I let negative self-talk creep in.

At the same time, reviewing my written goals helped me recognize an area where I’ve fallen short. I’d like to be more present and live in the moment. Yet, I find myself distracted about what’s coming up next week or next month. I find myself worrying about things to come versus being present and enjoying what’s happening at the moment.

You need to write it down. A goal not written down is only a wish.

2. Focus on your breathing.

When it comes to goal-setting, a lot of us can get overwhelmed by the thought of achieving big goals. When I focus on my breathing, I find that I’m much better equipped to deal with challenges or potential roadblocks. I’ve written about this before as well, and I believe it’s so important.

3. Prioritize your own well-being.

Some might say putting yourself first is selfish. I disagree. If your tank is empty, you’re less able to help others around you. I believe you have to prioritize yourself and understand the old metaphor: it’s impossible to draw water from an empty well.

As mentioned, I share many additional thoughts on goal-setting throughout the 30-minute Let’s GO! episode. In the end, when it comes to goals, any progress is a success.

More About Let’s Go with USANA!

Let’s GO! with USANA is a podcast series focusing on health, fitness, and an active lifestyle. It explores the benefits of living an empowering life — even if you’re just getting started.

Hosted by Ben Raskin, Let’s Go! is all about helping people stay motivated to make positive life changes and feel supported in living a healthy, energetic lifestyle. A special guest joins each episode to talk about nutrition, the importance of exercise, setting goals, keeping a positive mindset, and more.

It’s a fun, casual conversation listeners can tune in to during a workout or daily commute. Available on iTunes, Spotify, or Google Podcasts.

5 Secrets to Staying on Track and Accomplishing Your Goals

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Making a goal is admirable. Seeing goals through to completion can be hard. But research shows accomplishing goals increases positive self-concept and improves moods. It all starts with understanding why your goals are important to you.

5 Ways to Stay on Track and Accomplish Goals 1080x1920In All the Right Reasons, I emphasize the importance of achieving goals in harmony with one’s core values. And as we celebrate May’s National Recommitment Month, I’d like to share five ways I believe we can stay on track to accomplish the goals we set out to achieve.

1. Understand Your “Why”

Defining the why motivates you through inevitable ups and downs.

One story I share in my book involves Mother Teresa. She served the poorest of the poor in slums because she heard a call from God. That inspired her to nurse the sick, the hungry,  and those dying in communities she visited. Long after her passing, her work continues, providing relief to those in need in 123 countries and confirming how the why behind goals is powerful.

2. Use Your Why for Inspiration

Remember your motivation for setting goals. And use that as a source of inspiration to re-energize your efforts and recommit.

3. Reflect on Goals from a New Angle

When progress stalls, take a step back and view your goals from a new perspective. Brainstorm new ways to achieve your goals and change up your approach with new energy.

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States, chose advisors and cabinet members who held contradictory views to his own so he could be exposed to other perspectives and divergent ideas. I have tried to follow Lincoln’s example of leadership by surrounding myself with people who are smarter and more capable than I am and I let them go to work. I welcome tough questions and am not afraid to be contradicted or challenged. I’ve found the best leaders see value in opposition.

4. Break Down Big Goals into Smaller Ones

Achieving smaller milestones toward your goal will help you visualize progress and stay determined. Then self-evaluate to assess your strengths and weaknesses. In areas where you have fallen short, generate specific strategies to address them. That level of honesty with yourself may be the single most important thing you do to recommit yourself to your goals.

5. Reward Yourself for Your Progress

Positive reinforcement and self-rewards can have huge benefits for anyone striving to meet goals, which leads to increased motivation, self-esteem, and happiness. Celebrating successes brings an overall happier mindset and a sense of accomplishment.

Whether it’s a food treat, a spa day, a new adventure, or a relaxing time at home with a book, such rewards can boost your confidence and energize you to overall personal growth.

I shared these thoughts in a news release that went out on May 2, 2023, to commemorate National Recommitment Month. All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony, which is available on Amazon, uncovers 12 principles for living a life in harmony and drawing on the power of values to help find life’s success secrets. All proceeds feed hungry children, with each book purchase providing 40 meals.

Register Today: USANA Live 2023 Americas & Europe Convention

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The USANA Live 2023 Americas & Europe Convention is set to take place in Salt Lake City Aug. 10-12, 2023. If you’ve followed along on my social sites, you’ve already gained a glimpse into what this incredible event will entail.

I hope you are registered.

I believe attending events such as these is critical to realizing your full potential. It’s valuable if you’re a USANA business owner. But it’s equally valuable if you’re looking to improve your career, your emotional intelligence, or even your overall happiness.

In the People Business

Each of us, in some way, is in the people business. No matter your occupation, I’m willing to bet that part of your job involves interacting with other human beings. And for me, that interaction is perhaps the most important (and best) part of my job.

I’ll be honest — I’ve struggled at times over the last three-plus years with virtual events, Zoom meetings, and working remotely. I couldn’t wait for USANA’s 30th Anniversary Global Convention last year. The hybrid event meant I could feel the energy of thousands of health-minded entrepreneurs.

And this year, we’re going all-in on the in-person experience. You definitely won’t want to miss it!

The Spotlight is On You

From the organizing committee:

We’re highlighting you at USANA Live 2023 Americas & Europe Convention. A new format means a smaller, more intimate event focused exclusively on your past and future achievements. Join us for an incredible weekend of inspiration, learning, and celebration. Create memories to last a lifetime as you power your entrepreneurial mindset with energizing speakers and special events. Plus, be the first to shop for products and stylish logo gear.

Erin King, Bestselling Author, Podcast Host, Entrepreneur & Digital Persuasion Expert

Keynote Speaker: Erin King

Erin King is a world-class digital persuasion expert and two-time bestselling author. Founder of Get More Yes Media, a global sales and leadership training firm, Erin’s PUB Method™ has helped clients ranging from the Academy Awards to Disney to the U.S. Navy.

Her book, “Digital Persuasion” is an Amazon No. 1 bestseller and Erin’s live shows have been named by SUCCESS Magazine as one of 2022 “Top 10 Must-See Motivational Speakers.”

Erin’s podcast, “On Your Terms” ranks in the top 10% of all podcasts on iTunes.

Discover what Erin can do to elevate your business and transform your life.

Here’s wishing you good health and happiness, and I can’t wait to see my extended USANA Family in August.

Follow along on Facebook for updates, and be sure to bookmark the official USANA Live 2023 Americas & Europe Convention website.

#LiveUSANA #USANA23 #AEC23 #StartSomething

Find Harmony in Your Life Through Music

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During April, which is International Guitar Month, I urge you to find harmony in life through music.

As you know, I’m a lifelong musician. Guitars, the bass especially, hold a special place in my heart — and soul.

Studies show that people who live in harmony with core values are more productive and happier. This practice ultimately benefits themselves and those around them. Creating a harmonious environment with music brings better collaboration, a sense of belonging, and increased motivation.

As I write in my book, All the Right Reasons, living a life with harmony and music brings five key benefits:

  1. Reduced stress
  2. Improved mood
  3. Increased concentration
  4. Better sleep
  5. Enhanced creativity

By living each day in harmony, you can increase calmness and manage priorities better, which leads to higher productivity.

Seeking Harmony? Don’t Forget to Have Fun

At USANA, we live by four core values: Community, Excellence, Health, and Integrity. But fun is a fifth, informal value that I ask our employees to remember. Having fun and enjoying opportunities helps us to increase harmony in our lives, especially when tackling new challenges.

Speaking of new challenges, whenever I’m faced with one I remember my grandfather. His favorite mottos were: “You Gotta Fake It Till You Make It” and “Go, Baby, Go!” In life, we face setbacks that can terrify us and knock us to the ground. At those times, do we run or confront our fears?

When challenges arise, stand up, be strong, and meet your troubles head-on. I’ve found you can conquer just about anything if you just face it and follow Grandpa’s “Go, Baby Go!” advice.

Celebrate International Guitar Month

With the guitar as one of today’s most popular musical instruments, International Guitar Month is the perfect time to strike the chords and produce exquisite melodies.

Now is an excellent opportunity to learn to play the guitar. That effort will show the beauty of harmonies, which can stimulate the imaginative parts of the brain, leading to greater inspiration and innovation.

That can also enhance the ability to think abstractly and outside the box, which develops greater problem-solving skills.

I shared these thoughts in a news release that went out on April 3, 2023, to commemorate International Guitar Month. All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony, which is available on Amazon, uncovers 12 principles for living a life in harmony and drawing on the power of values to help find life’s success secrets. All proceeds feed hungry children, with each book purchase providing 40 meals.

Inspiring Leaders: Women on the Board

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International Women’s Day, which is celebrated each March 8, “is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.” It falls within Women’s History Month, an annual celebration that focuses attention on “commemorating and encouraging the study, observance, and celebration of the vital role of women in American history.”

At USANA, we’re fortunate to have many smart, talented, and resilient women leaders. Corporate Employees, Associates, Athletes, Board Members, and others all help to keep the company on the cutting edge.

Earlier this month, USANA featured board members Xia Ding and Peggie Pelosi on its social media. As board chair, I am honored to work closely with and to learn from them. I’m confident their leadership is helping to propel USANA into its next phase of growth.

Women on the Board

“My overall advice and mantra is: if you’re not having fun, enjoying yourself, and enhancing the quality of life, find something new. Life is too short — we only have so many heartbeats.” — Peggie Pelosi

Women's History Month

“Self-confidence reflects outward, and others take notice. Be yourself and be wise as you navigate a corporate environment. You, too, can discover your potential.” — Xia Ding

Women's History Month

By the way, if you haven’t listened to the Driven episode featuring Peggie, I encourage you to do so:

 

5 Ways to Boost Employee Morale

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Employee Spirit Month, which is celebrated each March, honors all hardworking employees. In celebration, I’d like to share five ways to boost employee morale for ongoing, upward progress.

When employee morale is high, we see productivity soar. So it’s important to keep morale at a high level for many reasons. Boosting employee optimism can happen with five proven ways that enhance individuals, teams, and companies.

In my book, All the Right Reasons, 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony, I write that nothing is more important than relationships. Realizing that, at the core, companies are primarily groups of people providing services or products. Lifting employees higher benefits everyone with high-level positivity.

5 Ways to Boost Employee Morale

1. Create a Positive Work Environment

An upbeat work environment reduces stress and provides an atmosphere of collaboration and communication, which benefits every organization.

2. Support Team-Building Activities

Team-building activities unite people because they let employees bond over shared experiences outside of work.

3. Celebrate Employee Achievements

When a supervisor genuinely shows appreciation for an employee’s good performance, it makes a huge statement that the company values each person.

4. Listen and Respond to Employee Feedback

While making the work environment a safe place to share feedback is important, it’s equally valuable to show employees you are acting on valid points they’ve raised. If you simply can’t act on their suggestions, you have to state that and give a valid reason to continue to lead with trust and respect.

5. Promote Work-Life Balance

In today’s sometimes fatigued work world, promoting work-life balance acknowledges that company leadership understands employees have important personal lives that should be addressed.

Each circumstance calls for its own practices, but mental balance is key because when employees are balanced in life, they bring that stability and happiness to work, which results in more productive results at every level.

I shared these thoughts and more in a news release that went out on March 1, 2023, to commemorate Employee Spirit Month. All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony is available on Amazon. All proceeds feed hungry children, with each book purchase providing 40 meals.

A New Chapter for Myself and USANA

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Today, I am sharing news that has filled me with many emotions—excitement, confidence, some nostalgia, and, most of all, deep gratitude. On July 1, 2023, I will transition to the role of executive chairman of USANA, and our current president, Jim Brown, will be named CEO and begin reporting directly to the Board of Directors.

Our executive leadership team, the board, and I have planned for this transition for many years, and the time is right. The board and I are confident in Jim’s experience, abilities, and preparation to lead USANA into its next chapter of growth. He has served as president of the company for the last six years, and previously oversaw our global operations and manufacturing.

His unique experience has given him an unwavering commitment to our Associates and the high-quality products they represent. Having worked closely with Jim for more than 15 years, I have learned and benefitted from his extraordinary dedication, judgment, and passion for USANA’s business and mission. I am truly grateful for Jim’s friendship and for his willingness to step into this role.

Although my decision is bittersweet, I’m excited for my new role as executive chairman. I can leave behind the demands of day-to-day leadership but continue to be deeply involved in advancing the company’s strategy and mission. I will still attend many USANA events and be part of regular executive strategy meetings and, of course, continue in my leadership role with the board. I feel fortunate for the opportunity to extend my tenure with USANA while having more time for the activities I love. (More time playing music and adventures with my wife, Lori, and our grandkids are at the top of the list.)

I love USANA and all it stands for—and I love the people of USANA even more. I want to express my tremendous appreciation for you and every one of our Associates around the world. Thank you for your tireless efforts in making USANA one of the foremost leaders in health and wellness. Thank you for thousands of meaningful conversations and shared laughs along the way. Thank you for supporting this next step and for seizing the many opportunities that lie ahead for our company.

7 Ways Music Can Positively Influence Your Life

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Music is medicine for the soul, and this is the perfect time to celebrate music icons and the influence music has on us. Few things have the power to promote harmony, peace, and unity among people everywhere as does music.

Feb. 3 marks “The Day the Music Died.” It’s a day to celebrate the power of music and the icons that have influenced us. In doing so, here’s a list of 30 songs that mean a lot to me.

Music as a Positive Influence

7 Ways Music Can Lift You UpHere are seven ways music can positively influence people across the world.

1. Creates Positive Vibes

  • Playing music in the workplace can create a more positive atmosphere, which can help to improve morale and productivity.

2. Reduces Stress

  • Music has been shown to reduce stress levels and help people relax, which can lead to increased productivity. Sweden’s University of Gothenburg study found that listening to music helps lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone.

3. Improves Memory

  • Studies have also shown that music can improve memory and help people to remember tasks more easily.

4. Increases Focus

  • For many, music helps to increase focus and concentration, which brings improved productivity in the workplace.

5. Enhances Creativity

  • One of my favorite things about the power of music is that it can stimulate creativity and help people think outside the box, which generates more innovative solutions.

6. Boosts Motivation

  • Increased focus (see above) can also motivate people and encourage them to work harder and more effectively.

7. Promotes Teamwork

  • Tunes can also help to promote teamwork and encourage collaboration, leading to better results.

Additional Benefits

Moreover, music has the power to promote peace, break down barriers between people of different cultures, and be a powerful force for good in the world.

As I travel, I see that music is a universal language everyone can understand. For example, our Free Radicals band has played songs from the Beatles, Toto, Doobie Brothers, Boston, and more. It’s wonderful to see people singing, smiling, and dancing, whether we’re playing in Mexico, Europe, the United States, China, or Korea.

As many of you know, I gained a love for music from my parents, who bought a piano before they bought a car.

My dad returned from the war, married my mom, and bought a beautiful piano before buying a car because they valued music that much. In those early days of marriage without a car, my dad rode his bike to work and took my mom on the back of his bicycle on trips to the store.

Some people couldn’t understand it. My parents didn’t have a car, but they had a beautiful piano. Music was that important to them — essential, actually.

I shared these thoughts and more in a news release that went out on Feb. 1, 2023, in honor of The Day the Music Died, which is commemorated each Feb. 3. All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony is available on Amazon. All proceeds feed hungry children, with each book purchase providing 40 meals.

Register Today: 2023 USANA Asia Pacific Convention

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USANA 2023 Asia Pacific Convention Logo

The 2023 USANA Asia Pacific Convention is set to take place in Seoul (and virtually around the world) May 4-6, 2023. If you’ve followed along on my social sites, you’ve already gained a glimpse into what this incredible event will entail.

I hope you are registered.

I believe attending events such as these is critical to realizing your full potential. It’s valuable if you’re a USANA business owner. But it’s equally valuable if you’re looking to improve your career, your emotional intelligence, or even your overall happiness.

Supercharge Your Entrepreneurial Vision

The Asia Pacific Virtual Convention aims to teach, inspire, and empower you with actionable insights and key takeaways. Immerse yourself in presentations and workshops hosted by industry leaders, USANA executives, and leaders throughout the Asia Pacific markets.

The can’t-miss event will feature…

  • Impactful keynote addresses
  • Extensive workshop training
  • Recognition
  • Business-building sessions
  • A look at the future of USANA
  • Exclusive product discussions

5 Reasons to Attend USANA 2023 Asia Pacific Convention in Person

Asia Pacific Convention Keynote Speaker

The keynote stage welcomes Vinh Giang, a world-renowned magician, entrepreneur, and coach.

Vinh gained the entrepreneurial spirit and mindset from his parents, who fled Vietnam to Australia in 1981 and went on to start multiple successful businesses.

His father’s belief that “life is a miracle” inspired Vinh to see the possibilities in his own life. Today, he travels the world, teaching communication skills and engaging audiences with energy and flair. >>> Read Vinh’s full bio.

Exclusive Share the Vision Reception

This event features an exclusive Share the Vision Reception. USANA’s finest will be there, and you can qualify for an exquisite evening of celebration and enrichment.

Earn Your Seat…

  • Share your passion for USANA products with new customers now through March.
  • USANA will compare the CVP (Commission Volume Points) you earn to last year’s average.
  • Top 250 Distributors with a minimum of 1,000 CVP growth will earn their seats at the Share the Vision Reception.
  • For complete details on qualifying, visit The Hub or contact your local leaders.

Dr. Wentz Plans to Attend

UPDATE: Announced in February 2023…

Don’t Miss Out

Let the event ignite your passion to pursue your entrepreneurial spirit.

Register Today

Please visit the USANA Live 2023 Asia Pacific Convention website for complete details. It’s your guide to a one-of-a-kind event that could help propel you to even greater heights. Oh, and follow along on Facebook and Instagram for the latest developments.

I look forward to seeing you soon! #LiveUSANA #APC23