Join Me in Making the Promise2Live

/0 Comments/in /by

The Promise2Live pledge is a promise not only to our loved ones but also to ourselves as we recognize Suicide Prevention Month in September.USANA partners with Promise2Live for a global suicide prevention campaign.

USANA Health Sciences is a company dedicated to health and well-being. We believe that true health encompasses both the body and the mind. While we have made significant strides in understanding physical health, we have continued work to do with the mind.

To truly be healthy, we have to take the mind into consideration. That’s why our mission is to spark conversations and create a safe space for individuals to share their struggles.

Earlier this year, USANA partnered with Good Deed Revolution and its Promise2Live campaign to erase the stigma and start talking more directly about mental health and suicide.

My personal journey and professional associations led me to therapy, where I learned the importance of open communication about suicide.

Read More About My Personal Journey on LinkedIn and in this Deseret News Article.

One thing learned from my therapy is to be part of the solution. To understand it’s OK to say the word suicide and to talk about it directly. I want others to seek harmony and engage in honest conversations with loved ones about mental health.

Take the Promise2Live Pledge

The Promise2Live pledge involves promising to reach out to trusted resources when struggling personally and to share the pledge with others. Thousands of people, including USANA employees and affiliated celebrities, such as Dr. Mehmet Oz and country music star Collin Raye, have already taken the pledge.

Suicide remains a major global issue. The act of openly discussing suicide can release pressure for those struggling, providing crucial relief. By bringing this issue to the forefront, my hope is to reduce the stigma and foster a culture of understanding and support.

As the world comes together during September’s Suicide Prevention Month, I encourage everyone to take the Promise2Live pledge and play a role in saving lives. To learn more and take the pledge, visit www.Promise2Live.org.

Promise2Live Live Event: Sept. 10, 2023

World Suicide Prevention Day is Sept. 10. I urge you to tune in that evening to watch the Promise2Live livestream event.

Watch Highlights from the 2022 Event

“We are demonstrating the innovative power of using live-streaming on various channels by various influencers as an effective method to get the word out about Suicide Prevention and Mental Health,” Promise2Live Live organizers wrote.

Here is more on the event featuring Brandy Vega, founder of Good Deed Revolution and Promise2Live:

I invite you to learn more about USANA’s partnership with Good Deed Revolution, and I challenge you to make the Promise2Live today. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, call 988 to connect with the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Promise2Live Kevin Guest

 

Networking Star Podcast: Making the World a Better Place Through Business

/0 Comments/in , /by

The Networking Star Podcast | Kevin GuestKevin Guest, the Executive Chairman of USANA Health Sciences and author of All the Right Reasons, appeared on The Networking Star podcast. Episode 18 debuted on Sept. 2, 2023.

In the interview, “Guest shares his wealth of knowledge, offering unique perspectives on leadership and success that you won’t find anywhere else.”

Topics include:

  • Listening to understand
  • The importance of mentorship
  • Entrepreneurship and direct sales
  • The value of charity

Hosted by Jeffery Boyle, The Networking Star podcast aims to “leave you inspired and ready to make positive changes in your own life.” It’s called a must-watch for anyone seeking to level up personally and professionally.

🎙️ Listen to the full episode on the Spotify

🎥 Watch the conversation on YouTube

The Networking Star: About the Podcast

Entrepreneurs and business owners share their secrets to success in order for listeners to achieve greatness together.

Effective Interactions: Interpersonal Tips for Success

/0 Comments/in /by

Every time I surround myself with aspiring leaders, I get a jolt of energy. Entrepreneurs who are determined to make a difference—in their own lives and in the lives of others—hold a special place in my heart.

4 Tips for Effective Interactions | Kevin GuestRecently, health-focused business owners from throughout North America and Europe met in Salt Lake City to celebrate, connect, and learn (scroll for video highlights from the event).

In-person gatherings such as these fuel my soul. They provide opportunities to strengthen relationships and unite in common goals. I’m grateful to connect with so many on a personal level through handshakes, selfies, and one-on-one conversations (no matter how brief they may be).

Thank you to everyone who makes attending in-person events a priority. And many thanks to the USANA teams that work hard to produce high-value, high-energy, and high-impact events. They’re an important piece in helping to create The Healthiest Family on Earth.

Interactions: 4 Tips for Success

In addition, as USANA strives toward our goal of reaching 1 million active customers, I’m often asked to share advice on what makes a good leader. The list could go on and on. However, here are four concepts that contribute to strong leadership.

I invite you to watch the following brief video clips and see how you might be able to incorporate these techniques in your professional (and personal) lives:

Interactions: Listening to Understand

Asking the Right Questions

Connecting in Meaningful Ways

Being Teachable

In the end, relationships rule the day. Success arrives when we nurture and strengthen relationships.

Note: A version of this article originally went to e-newsletter subscribers on Aug. 24, 2023. I invite you to subscribe for free.

Be Happy: 5 Ways to Celebrate Happiness

/0 Comments/in /by

Did you know August is “Happiness Happens Month?” I’ve found happiness is not a destination; it’s a way of life. Even during difficult times, finding joy in the simplest moments can create a ripple effect of positivity. This month, we remind people that happiness is always within their grasp. And celebrating it every day can brighten the world and make it a better place.

As you know, I’m a big believer in the importance of living life in harmony and aligning one’s actions with principles that lead to lasting fulfillment. With that, I encourage each of you to infuse your life with happiness.

Wrapping myself up in music is one of the things that makes me most happy. I’ve found that the most accomplished people have discovered joy in one of several ways. These five habits seem to be the most powerful.

5 Habits for Increased Happiness

  1. Focus on positivity
  2. Embrace every day with joy
  3. Appreciate the little things
  4. Get lost in a hobby you love
  5. Find someone to serve

I shared these thoughts in a news release that went out on Aug. 1, 2023, in celebration of August’s Happiness Happens 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.

Self-Care Day: 7 Tips to Prioritize Your Own Well-Being

/0 Comments/in /by

Taking care of yourself is crucial, especially when times get tough. Specifically, it’s essential in these times to prioritize our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. International Self-Care Day, which takes place July 24, reminds us to engage in self-care practices that enhance our quality of life.

I’ve found seven key habits for aligning one’s core values with harmony and balance.

  1. Self-reflect each morning: Start your day with a few minutes of quiet introspection to set a positive tone for the day.
  2. Meditate: Use guided meditation to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
  3. Spend time in nature: Connect with the outdoors to boost mood and improve mental health.
  4. Detox digitally: Unplug from electronic devices to give your mind a break and enhance focus.
  5. Listen to favorite music: Reduce anxiety and stress by listening to soothing tunes.
  6. Engage in a new creative activity: Stimulate your brain and unleash your creativity by trying something new.
  7. Get enough sleep: Prioritize restful sleep to support physical and mental health.

What’s On My Self-Care Day To-Do List?

Benefits of Self-Care

I’ve found that when we do these self-care practices, we increase energy, improve mental clarity, and enhance overall well-being. For example, music is medicine to me and helps me balance when pressures build. As our band, The Free Radicals, performs, we see people singing, smiling, and dancing to the music, whether we’re in Mexico, Europe, the United States, China, or Korea. Music is a universal power that balances people.

Growing up, there was always music in our home, and it set a good feeling. My love for music has been with me for as long as I can remember. It has transformed my life and continues to help me balance.

In celebration of International Self-Care Day, I encourage you to share your self-care practices and positive experiences by using the hashtag #SelfCareJuly on social media.

I shared these thoughts in a news release that went out on June 29, 2023, in advance of International Self-Care Day. 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.

Kevin Guest Named Chairman of the DSEF

/0 Comments/in , /by
Kevin Guest Named Chairman of the Direct Selling Education Foundation (DSEF).

Kevin Guest is named chairman of the Direct Selling Education Foundation (DSEF).

USANA Executive Chairman Kevin Guest was recently named the new Chairman of the Direct Selling Education Foundation (DSEF). Over the next year, he’ll help guide the strategic actions of the organization, which works with the academic community to support research in direct sales-related disciplines.

“It is a great honor to support the Direct Selling Education Foundation through my new role. I believe so strongly in the DSEF’s 50-year mission to engage and educate the public on the ways direct selling empowers individuals, supports communities, and strengthens economies worldwide. I’m excited to work with the talented DSEF staff and board members to make a difference for our industry and millions of direct sellers and their customers.”

— Kevin Guest, USANA Executive Chairman

DSEF LogoGuest was named chief executive officer of USANA in 2016, followed by the role of chairman and CEO in 2020. During his tenure, USANA saw record growth in active customers and revenue. Guest recently transitioned from his role as CEO in July 2023 to Executive Chairman of USANA’s board. He also served as Direct Selling Association (DSA) Chairman for the past two years.

DSA and DSEF President Joseph N. Mariano commented, “I am delighted that Kevin Guest has assumed the chairmanship of the Direct Selling Education Foundation after his exemplary service as Chairman of the Direct Selling Association.”

Read the full news release.

As Executive Chairman, Growth is Top of Mind

/0 Comments/in /by

Earlier this year, it was announced that I’d become Executive Chairman of USANA Health Sciences. On July 1, the transition took place. I moved into the new role and current president Jim Brown added CEO to his title.

As I think about my position as Executive Chairman, and as I’ve discussed goals and objectives with the Board of Directors at USANA, my No. 1 focus is: What does USANA look like in five years? In 10 years? And beyond?

Jim, whom I’ve known for more than 15 years, will lead day-to-day. The Board, Dr. Wentz, and I trust Jim wholeheartedly.

In each of his USANA roles over the last decade-and-a-half, Jim’s proven to be a strategic, passionate, and effective leader. For the last six years, Jim served as president, where he led USANA’s sales and operations. I’m confident USANA will continue to thrive under his leadership.

For me, I’m excited to look ahead. Growth. The Future. What’s next for this great company that means so much to so many?

As many of you know, my USANA history began with the start of the company. In 30-plus years, I’ve watched the company blossom into the global organization it is today.

  • Thousands of employees.
  • Hundreds of thousands of Associates and Customers around the world.
  • Hundreds (if not a thousand) of awards and recognition.
  • Countless lives changed as we strive to create The Healthiest Family on Earth.

Moving Forward

Three decades in business is no small feat. Add to that the incredible success USANA’s experienced over the years, and I’m grateful every day that I hitched my wagon to Dr. Wentz all those years ago.

It’s been an incredible ride, and I like to think we’re just getting started. I’m appreciative of USANA’s extraordinary management team, employees, and Associates for their relentless work in advancing USANA’s position as a leader in health and wellness.

I’m excited for this next chapter as Executive Chairman. I look forward to the future as we create The Healthiest Family on Earth.

Join Me in Taking the Promise2Live Pledge

/0 Comments/in /by

Recently, I made an important promise to myself and my loved ones. I pledged to reach out to friends, family, the 988 crisis hotline, or another resource if I ever feel sad, depressed, hopeless, or suicidal.

USANA partners with Promise2Live for a global suicide prevention campaign.

USANA partners with Promise2Live for a global suicide prevention campaign.

I’m passionate about increasing awareness around suicide prevention and erasing the stigma surrounding mental health. If you feel the same way, I encourage you to join me in making a Promise2Live. You can do so here.

Promise2Live is a global rallying cry for individuals to promise to reach out if they are feeling depressed or suicidal. Studies have shown that people are much more likely to keep a commitment to themselves when a promise is made with someone else.

As an international company focused on health and wellness, USANA has made the promise to save lives by partnering with Good Deed Revolution and its Promise2Live campaign. (I announced the partnership in this video).

Through the partnership, my hope is we reach people around the world and erase the stigma around mental health and discussions about suicide prevention. With the help of our international network of Associates, employees, athletes, and influencers, I believe we can make a significant difference.

I invite you to learn more about USANA’s partnership with Good Deed Revolution. And I challenge you to make the Promise2Live today.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, call 988 to connect with the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Kevin Guest (@kevinguestusana)

Note: A version of this article originally went to e-newsletter subscribers on June 20, 2023. I invite you to subscribe for free.

Effective Communication: A Cornerstone of Success

/2 Comments/in /by

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

/0 Comments/in /by

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.