An Honor to Visit the Iconic White House

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The historic and iconic White House is a beacon of democracy. It stands tall and proud, commanding respect worldwide.

When the invitation to visit the White House arrived, I immediately recognized its magnitude. Let me tell you, it didn’t disappoint. I’m grateful to have joined Direct Selling Association colleagues on Feb. 28, 2024, to present on key policy matters that could affect entrepreneurs.

The Direct Selling Association delegation presented at the White House on policy matters important to entrepreneurs.

As I stepped on the grounds and through the doors, I felt a sense of honor and humility. Walking the halls world leaders walk. Rooms echoing monumental decisions that shaped our world. This grand structure symbolizes unity and belonging.

It was an experience that left me deeply moved and inspired. Two things stood out:

  1. The dedication of the good and hardworking people managing our nation’s daily complexities
  2. The overwhelming sense of patriotism, especially when I saw the American flag posted proudly

Creating Powerful Memories

This visit held a personal significance for me. Like many of my friends, my father’s military service meant personal sacrifices and a dedicated commitment to our country. Throughout the visit, I felt a connection to Dad and thought of the sacrifices made by countless individuals for our freedom and democracy.

It reminded me of the leadership, hard work, and sacrifice we all share to realize a common purpose. It’s a testament to what we can achieve when we come together, guided by sound values and principles.

My visit to the White House reaffirmed my gratitude for our country’s past and hope for its future. It reinforced our shared democratic values, a testament to our collective strength as humans. It’s a reminder that we, the people, are indeed the pillars of this great nation. Let’s all remember the importance of unity and commitment to a greater cause.

Leap Day: 7 Ways to Make the Most of Added Day

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Every four years, we’re given a unique gift — one extra day. Feb. 29, 2024 is Leap Day, a rare occasion that offers an additional 24 hours in the year.

Some might view Leap Day as just another day. But those who understand the value of time see it as a bonus for personal development and skill-building.

To maximize this Leap Year Day, I’d like to share seven effective strategies that cater to a spectrum of interests.

7 Ways to Make the Most Out of Leap DayLeap Day: Time for Self-Care

Self-care and harmony are prioritized in the first three suggestions.

  • Meditate: Dedicate the day to nurturing your mental health. Practice mindfulness or learn the art of meditation. It’s a gift of tranquility you can offer to yourself.
  • Read: Leap Day is a good time to catch up on reading. Is there a book that’s been sitting on your reading list for too long? Use your extra day to immerse yourself in a good book and broaden your horizons.
  • Reconnect with nature: Carve time in the extra day to bask in the great outdoors. Hiking, gardening or merely relishing in the beauty of nature can provide a much-needed mental reset.

Fourth, I encourage everyone to define your goals and aspirations. All of us can benefit by creating our own vision board that helps us visualize our ideal future.

Start Something!

Escape the monotony and find a new groove with these final three action-oriented suggestions.

  • Learn a new skill
  • Kickstart a passion project
  • Volunteer your services

Whether learning something new, igniting a dream project you’ve been contemplating, or giving back to your community by volunteering, all are invigorating ways toward personal growth.

With Leap Day as a time of self-reflection, nothing speaks more profoundly to the essence of self-care than living a life that’s aligned with your core values. That’s an empowering journey that fosters personal growth and paves the way for personal fulfillment.

I originally shared these thoughts in a news release published on Feb. 28, 2024. 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.

USANA India: The Latest Step in Creating the Healthiest Family on Earth

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USANA is resolute in its vision to create The Healthiest Family on Earth. It’s an important overarching goal that requires us to reach individuals and families around the globe. I’ve been thinking about this notion, considering we recently officially welcomed India into the USANA Family.

You’ve heard me talk about our ambitious goal: connect with 1 million families and introduce them to the USANA products. It’s a big number, for sure. But it’s only the beginning as we strive to truly create The Healthiest Family on Earth.

The effort to connect with more and more individuals requires companywide participation. Each USANA employee and every USANA distributor plays a role in helping us to achieve our goal.

When I proposed that each Associate make two connections a day, I envisioned that those two connections would be meaningful ones.

I continue to be impressed by the strong interpersonal relationships that have resulted.

 

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A post shared by USANA India (@usanaindia)

Welcoming USANA India

These connections help to expand our reach, while also making a difference in the lives of so many. USANA operates with distributors in 25 diverse markets around the world. In late 2023, we welcomed USANA India and are enthusiastic about the opportunities to share the USANA message with friends there.

Our corporate core values — Community, Excellence, Health, and Integrity — guide each decision USANA makes. They are the lens through which we decide whether something makes sense for who we are and who we want to be as a company. And each time we expand internationally, we’re committed to ensuring success within the new market.

For India, it’s home to a significant number of people. Even more, India prioritizes health and family. It aligns perfectly with USANA’s core values.

I invite you to learn more about the market on The Hub and connect with USANA India on Instagram and Facebook.

 

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A post shared by USANA India (@usanaindia)

The Value of Relationships

As I write, we’re celebrating International Friendship Month. Those who know me understand my reverence for relationships. Nothing is more important than building and nurturing strong relationships in our personal and professional lives.

And that is why I am so confident that USANA can connect with 1 million people…and then 2 million and 5 million… The possibilities are immense for us as a global organization that’s thrived for more than 30 years.

When I moved into the role of Executive Chairman in 2023, I knew USANA was well on its way to creating the Healthiest Family on Earth. As we look toward the future, I’m grateful for the teams we have around the world that are aligned with our vision of doing just that. Thank you all.

Friendship Focus: 3 Benefits of In-Person Contact

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February’s International Friendship Month is a time for people everywhere to strengthen personal connections in an age where digital communication dominates.

As I’ve said many times before, there’s nothing more important than relationships. I’ve found that friendship isn’t just about sharing good times, it’s about being there for each other when life gets tough. My friends have been my pillars of strength, helping me navigate through the storms.

When I’m speaking to audiences, a few topics always resonate:

  • How to be successful in business
  • The importance of connecting personally with others
  • The value of truly connecting with people in a hyper-digital world (as I wrote about recently)

Strengthening my network of associates — and friends — has brought success in my professional and personal life.

Building on Friendship: In-Person Contact

Over the years, I’ve found three key benefits of prioritizing in-person contact:

  1. An enhanced emotional connection
  2. Increased trust and rapport
  3. A stronger sense of community

Bringing people together builds relationships more effectively than anything else.

Studies dictate that face-to-face interactions bear fruits of understanding and trust that digital dialogue simply cannot replicate. In-person requests are 34 times more likely to receive a positive response than one by email, according to research reported by The Washington Post.

As a result of one volunteer project, I worked with Bob Hope and began a business relationship with Alan Osmond. The opportunity to work with highly respected politicians, celebrities, and sports figures opened the door for many future corporate events and projects that otherwise wouldn’t have happened.

And it was all in person where I made contacts and friends who promoted my business for years to come.

Technology is ideal for training and project management, but it falls short in terms of building relationships and addressing conflict.

You’ve heard me say before: Everyone is in the people business. It’s the handshake, the eye contact, and the unplanned conversations that often lead to remarkable ideas and lasting collaborations.

This month, I’m issuing a challenge to rekindle the spirit of genuine bonds in person.

I originally shared these thoughts in a news release published on Feb. 1, 2024. 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.

Make 2024 The Year of Connection

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One notion I’ve thought a lot about lately is how we’re living in a super-connected world, yet many of us feel disconnected. That’s why I’m encouraging us to make 2024 The Year of Connection as we strive to make more meaningful connections.

In this increasingly digital era, the paradox of disconnection in a connected world is more real than ever. Despite unprecedented digital connectivity, many find themselves feeling more alone than ever.

The detrimental effects on mental and emotional well-being are alarming, with loneliness, anxiety, and depression topping the list and becoming all too common.

🎥 Make Meaningful Connections in Our Over-Connected World

Make 2024 The Year of Connection

Studies show that 95% of teens are on social media. A third say they are on it “almost constantly.” And nearly 40% of adults in the United States use social media for more than two hours a day.

A CDC study found that between 2013 and 2019, one in five teens reported they had experienced major depression. A 2022 analysis found that social media addiction was associated with a 20% increase in loneliness, with 26% of Americans reporting they feel lonely on a regular basis.

In fact, multiple studies have found a correlation between social media addiction and loneliness.

🤔 Are we using technology as a tool to foster genuine relationships or are we letting it dictate our interactions?

Making Meaningful Connections

As we navigate the digital era, I implore you to connect in person with colleagues, friends, and family.

As we begin 2024, let’s balance our online presence with real-life engagements. Let’s reshape the narrative of our digital lives and prioritize genuine connections. By intentionally deciding the way we engage with technology, we can cultivate authentic relationships amid the digital noise.

Let’s use technology as a bridge to genuine human connection, not as a barrier. Strive to make 2024 The Year of Connection!

Let Our Ugly Sweaters Connect Us

You may have seen this photo on my LinkedIn and other social media. But I wanted to post it here as a reminder that showing off our wonderfully imperfect selves can help us foster a deeper connection with those around us. USANA CEO & President Jim Brown and I had a good laugh seeing each other’s ugly sweaters in celebration of Ugly Sweater Day on Dec. 15.

Kevin Guest and Jim Brown in Ugly Holiday Sweaters | 2024 The Year of Connection

I shared a version of this blog post in a news release published on Jan. 3, 2024. Other material originated on my LinkedIn.

The Power of Culture: Driving Business Forward

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In today’s highly competitive business landscape, organizations are constantly seeking ways to gain an edge over rivals. While strategies and technologies play a vital role, one often overlooked aspect can be a true game changer: organizational culture.

The Power of Culture - Kevin GuestCulture, often considered the DNA of a company, shapes its identity, values, and behaviors. It’s the guiding force that empowers employees and drives business excellence.

Over my years as CEO at USANA Health Sciences, I have witnessed firsthand how human capital can become an organization’s most valuable asset. In fact, a strong and vibrant culture can drive success, outperform competitors, and propel businesses to new heights.

Here are insights on how a strong culture can foster employee engagement, innovation, and loyalty.

Use Culture to Attract Top Talent

Culture lies at the heart of every successful organization. It’s the energy and vision that shapes the mindset, values, and behaviors of employees. A robust culture acts as a magnet, attracting top talent and motivating them to go the extra mile.

Moreover, it creates a sense of belonging, fostering collaboration and teamwork. When employees feel connected to a shared purpose, they become more passionate about their work and bring positive results at every level.

Unleash the Power of Culture

By building and protecting an environment that encourages open communication and transparency, I’ve seen a culture of trust grow, where ideas flourish and innovation thrives. But it has to be genuinely practiced by leaders so employees know this is for real. Bringing to life that kind of environment has allowed us to stay ahead of the curve, consistently delivering exceptional results.

Create a Thriving Organizational Culture

To build a robust organizational culture, certain key components demand attention. First, the leaders should clearly define and articulate company values. That becomes the compass that guides decision-making and behavior. Also, without hesitation, leaders must champion diversity and inclusion practices so fresh perspectives surface naturally in discussions for solutions.

Investing in employee development and recognition programs is key so employees feel valued and are motivated to contribute their best. Offering attractive perks and benefits helps create a positive work environment that enhances employee well-being. Championing flexible work arrangements and in-office team-building activities makes work productive and enjoyable.

Let’s face it: coming together in person and working as a team creates a dynamic energy and synergy that cannot be replicated remotely. All of that boosts morale and fosters loyalty, which is the secret sauce behind success.

Without a doubt, a thriving organizational culture has the power to revolutionize the work environment and drive top-level performance. When employees feel empowered and supported, they are more likely to speak up, take risks, think creatively, and innovate.

Collaboration flourishes and amazing solutions are born. That’s when work becomes fun. That’s when customer satisfaction soars. And that’s what leads to higher revenue and market share.

To be sure, culture is no longer just a buzzword; it is a vital ingredient that can make or break an organization. As employees return to the office, businesses can differentiate themselves from their rivals and position themselves as true leaders by creating a strong and vibrant culture.

I hope you embrace the power of culture, invest in your teams, and lead your organization on a remarkable journey of growth, innovation, and success.

I originally shared these thoughts in a LinkedIn article published on Oct. 16, 2023. 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.

Reflecting on a Year of Achievements in 2023

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Reflecting at the end of each year is an important part of setting ourselves up for success in the year ahead. 2023 proved to be a transformative year for me personally as I moved into the role of USANA Executive Chairman. Jim Brown, USANA’s President, added CEO to his title in July to ensure a seamless transition.

The shift has allowed me to focus on strategic initiatives as USANA continues to thrive and evolve. It also gave me the opportunity to perform several gigs with The Free Radicals. 🎸

Thank you for your support and encouragement.

Select Highlights

USANA continues to lead through its core values. Community, Excellence, Health, and Integrity provide a clear lens through which we view our decision-making. This foundation helped USANA earn a variety of impressive accolades throughout the year.

A sampling…

  • Honored with prestigious “Best of State” awards, recognizing USANA’s commitment to excellence in various categories. It marked one of 40 awards and other honors USANA received during the year.
  • In addition, USANA earned recognition for its commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in the workplace. In March, the Utah Governor’s Office recognized USANA for its support of women in the workplace.
  • CellSentials received a ConsumerLab.com seal of approval, reaffirming its status as a leader in nutritional supplementation. This recognition is a tribute to the cutting-edge science and research that goes into creating quality products.
  • USANA Business magazine recognized USANA as a “Best Company to Work For” for the ninth time. This recognition speaks volumes about the positive culture cultivated at USANA, where employees are not just part of a company but a thriving community.
  • And the Utah Manufacturers Association named USANA a “Top Manufacturer” for the second consecutive year.

To read more about USANA’s accolades, visit the newsroom on USANA.com. One overarching goal we’ve set for ourselves as a company is to reach 1 million customers. And with your support, I’m confident we can soar past that number.

 

Noteworthy Efforts

In 2023, USANA continued its commitment to sustainability with the release of its latest Sustainability Report. This report — People, Planet, Products — outlines our progress and initiatives aimed at contributing to a healthier planet.

The USANA Foundation remained a focus, as The Garden Towers Project helped so many families around the world.

Also this year, USANA introduced its affiliate program, as well as some new products, each designed to meet the diverse needs of our customers. These additions exemplify our commitment to innovation and providing cutting-edge solutions for optimal health.

In terms of new partnerships, USANA joined forces with the USA Bobsled/Skeleton team and the South Sydney Rabbitohs rugby team.

Expanding our reach globally, USANA recently officially opened for business in India. The expansion represents an exciting opportunity to fulfill our mission of creating The Healthiest Family on Earth.

Early in 2023, USANA partnered with Good Deed Revolution and its Promise2Live campaign. I believe we’re in the midst of a global mental health crisis. As an international company focused on health and wellness, USANA has made the promise to stop the stigma around suicide, start conversations, and save lives.

Reflecting on the Past and Looking Ahead

Once we’ve finished reflecting on the past, let’s center our attention on the year ahead. I’m excited about the possibilities in 2024. Our journey has been one of growth, recognition, and positive impact.

In a previous message, I suggested we focus on maintaining a positive mindset. I echo that sentiment today. Let’s try to push out the bad and direct all our energy to that which is good. If we open our minds to see what’s possible, rather than dwell on obstacles, we can expand our belief and confidence in who we are and what we can be.

Thank you, as always, for your dedication and passion. I wish you a joyous holiday season and a healthy, happy, and prosperous new year. Together, let’s make 2024 a year of continued success, growth, and shared achievements.

In the spirit of staying connected, I encourage you to subscribe to my monthly e-newsletter for regular updates and insights. 

Celebrate the Spirit of Giving

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I love this time of year. For me, as I’m sure it is for many of you, it’s a season of giving. December, in fact, is designated to be “National Giving Month” in the United States.

It’s about more than just material gifts, of course. This time of year we should give of our time, our service, and our compassion. As I wrote at the start of the month, it’s important to give of ourselves to others.

But it’s also important to give to ourselves.

We need to stay balanced personally. To do that, we should dedicate time for self-care, peace, and solitude. By nurturing ourselves, we cultivate the energy needed to help others.

National Giving Month | Kevin Guest

3 Ways to Celebrate the Spirit of Giving

  1. Serve Others: Volunteer time and skills to those in need. Whether it’s helping a neighbor or volunteering at a charity, I find tremendous value in getting outside of myself and making a difference in someone else’s life.
  2. Anonymous Do Kind Acts: Do something kind for someone who can do nothing for you in return. When possible, do it anonymously. It’s an act that truly embodies the spirit of giving and flows out to others.
  3. Give to Yourself: Because it’s important to stay balanced personally, dedicate time for self-care, peace, and solitude. By nurturing ourselves, we cultivate the energy and tolerance needed to help others.

In All the Right Reasons, I relay a story of a college professor who said, “Nothing is more important than relationships. In your careers, your paths will cross with many people. They all matter and deserve your attention and care, even if all you do is smile, say hello and learn their names. Few things are more important to people than being called by their first name.”

Especially during this month of giving, I urge everyone to treat others with kindness and respect. Learn their names, acknowledge them as you pass by, and step outside of your own issues to be genuinely respectful to everyone.

By adopting this mindset, individuals can foster deeper connections, creating a sense of unity and shared purpose that extends beyond the holiday season.

As the Month of Giving unfolds, let’s come together to create a ripple effect of generosity, kindness, and compassion. By serving others, helping anonymously, and actually giving time for ourselves, we pave the way for stronger, more meaningful relationships that endure well beyond the holiday season.

We all have the power to help others, to give back, and to do good in this world. That’s my wish and hope for you this holiday season. Please take comfort in the spirit of giving to those around you and to yourself.

I shared these thoughts in a news release published on Dec. 4, 2023. I also shared a version with e-newsletter subscribers on Dec. 19. Please consider subscribing.

The Dorothy Principle: A Lesson to Embrace During the Holidays

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I’d like to share with you a paradigm-shifting concept. It’s called the Dorothy Principle, a popular story in “All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony.”

All the Right Reasons | Kevin Guest

The “Dorothy Principle” name may seem peculiar, but its implications have been profound in my life.

The essence of the Dorothy Principle lies in treating others with utmost respect and kindness. It’s about understanding that our greatest successes, our most meaningful victories, are nestled in the heart of our relationships.

In my book, I recount an incident from my college days when a college professor posed a seemingly simple question: “What is the name of the woman who cleans this building?” The class was stumped. The woman’s name was Dorothy. The lesson? In life, nothing is more important than relationships. And paying attention to others, even if you only pass them in the hall (if only several times a week like I did), is a secret to success.

This story resonated with me. I remember my first day at college; my professor wrote on the board: “Nothing is more important than relationships.” As a young college student, I felt this was counterintuitive to my ambitions. But time and experience have shown me the wisdom in those words.

I recall studying for hours for my final exam only to be faced with one question: “What had the professor written on the board on the first day of class?” Even after 35 years, I remember the answer and the lesson it taught me.

The Importance of Relationships

Relationships matter. Whether it’s the mail carrier, your co-worker, or the person who cleans the building, everyone deserves your attention, your respect, and your kindness. A simple smile, a warm hello, or just remembering someone’s name can make a world of difference.

As we approach the holiday season, I urge you all to put relationships first. Cherish your family, your friends, and every person who crosses your path. Remember, people matter more than things. Our success is not actually measured by our wealth or achievements, but by the lives we touch and the relationships we foster.

To experience true inner peace, we must understand what holds real meaning in our lives: relationships, making a difference, and living authentically. This is not just a message of hope; it’s a call to action.

It’s up to us to uphold virtues, to fight for integrity, to love truth, to right the wrongs, and heal the wounds. It’s up to us to repair what’s broken. If not us, then who?

So, I ask you today, will you join me in this quest for character? Will you strive for harmony? Will you live your life for all the right reasons?

It’s time we embraced the Dorothy Principle and put relationships first in everything we do. In the grand scheme, nothing is more important than relationships.

I first shared these thoughts in a LinkedIn post published on Nov. 15, 2023.

Emotional Intelligence, Gratitude Go Hand in Hand

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In thinking about emotional intelligence, it seems to have become a buzzword in business. For successful enterprises, it’s so much more.

Kevin Guest | Power of Emotional IntelligenceThe notion of understanding and managing our emotions in the workplace isn’t necessarily new, but today more than ever it’s crucial, I believe, in achieving success. In an age when businesses seek innovative strategies for a competitive edge, emotional intelligence is key.

Cultivating emotional intelligence among leaders and employees is a game-changing approach to gain momentum and drive business success. I’ve found this skill to be a linchpin for success across diverse industries and markets globally.

Recent Harvard Business School research provides compelling evidence of the transformative power of EI in business. The study underscores that emotionally intelligent leaders can create a positive work environment, significantly motivating their teams and instilling a sense of belonging among employees.

Another Harvard study concluded that 200 companies with a high level of emotional intelligence saw output increase by 20 percent. The message is clear: Emotional intelligence is not just a buzzword; it’s a key driver of business excellence. By fostering a culture of empathy, understanding, and emotional management, companies can boost productivity remarkably.

Gratitude Plays a Role

And nestled within the important realm of emotional intelligence is gratitude. It’s top-of-mind for us in the United States as we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving Day. It’s no coincidence that November is also National Gratitude Month.

In this space last year, I shared five ideas to show gratitude that might even go above and beyond a simple thank you:

  • Making a phone call
  • Writing a handwritten note
  • Offering an in-person expression of gratitude
  • Stating gratitude of another to them in front of others
  • Saying thank you by taking a friend out to lunch or dinner

I’m always looking for ways to demonstrate gratitude. I approach EI with a grateful heart as I seek to foster skills of perspective and understanding. This reminds me of an allegory I share in my book, All the Right Reasons, about a currant bush that “complains” about being trimmed prematurely, only to realize later that this pruning was necessary for it to reach its full potential. Much like the bush, our growth often comes from challenges.

Read More: The Currant Bush Principle

So, what does this mean for us in the business world? It means that by focusing on EI, we can boost productivity remarkably and create a harmonious work environment. It’s an initiative that holds the promise to transform business leaders and teams to higher levels of success.

As we communicate effectively with a strong sense of empathy, accountability, and flexibility, we’ll find that we handle stress better and act with a greater perspective, which benefits everyone.

Let’s embrace EI — and remember to express gratitude — for a more empathetic, productive, and successful tomorrow. Together, we can redefine the future of business.

Emotional Intelligence

I shared these thoughts in a LinkedIn post and news release published on Nov. 1, 2023. I also shared a version with e-newsletter subscribers on Nov. 21. Please consider subscribing.