Pick Up a Good Book: Reading to Nourish the Mind and Soul

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Longtime readers of this blog might remember the regular What I’m Reading series. In short posts and video clips, I’d discuss books that I’d recently read or that had influenced me in some way.

Though I haven’t added to the series in a while, that doesn’t mean I’ve quit reading! In fact, I’m usually reading a handful of books at a time, covering a variety of topics. My current stack includes books on personal and professional development, music and musicians, self-care, and mindfulness, among other topics.

“What Are You Reading?”

That’s the question I get, perhaps more than any other, when I visit or speak to different groups. I’m happy to share, as I often find myself asking mentors and leaders I admire the same question.

I strongly believe that success requires a growth mindset, which can be created by nourishing one’s mind and soul. Further, your mindset will determine your relevance in every aspect of your life.

Lifelong learning through books is a great way to accomplish this. Here are three books that recently have helped me to better understand different aspects of the world.

The Founder's MentalityThe Founder’s Mentality

The subtitle of this 2016 bestseller is How to Overcome the Predictable Crises of Growth. The book’s principles for managing growth while avoiding pitfalls are invaluable for entrepreneurs and corporate managers alike. While many leaders are defending against external threats, the authors found that the bigger dangers to an organization often are internal.

Living the Beatles LegendLiving the Beatles Legend

If you know me, you’re familiar with my admiration for The Beatles. I’ve read a lot about the influential band and just as much about the individual musicians. But this one centers on Mal Evans, “the Beatles’ beloved friend, confidant, and roadie.” He saw it all, and I found his story fascinating and tragic. It also includes several cool and rare photos.

What a Fool BelievesWhat a Fool Believes

This new memoir from Michael McDonald, the legendary Steely Dan, Doobie Brothers, and solo singer-songwriter, is a great read for rock-n-roll fans. It’s also an inspiring story about never giving up on your dreams.

All the Right Reasons

Celebrate Reading

On Aug. 9 each year we recognize National Book Lovers Day. It’s a day to celebrate reading and literature.

And then, on Sept. 6, it’s National Read a Book Day. That’s when we should collectively pick up a book and spend the day (or as much time as we can) reading.

We definitely don’t need these unofficial holidays as an excuse to read. I know I’ll be picking up a book on these days — and every day before and after, and I encourage you to do the same.

Please let me know what you’re reading by dropping a title in the comments.

All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony, available on Amazon, uncovers 12 principles for living a life in harmony. It draws on the power of values to help find life’s success secrets. All proceeds feed hungry children, with each book purchase providing 40 meals.

7 Steps to Soar Like Olympians

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Inspired by Olympians, I’m urging each of us to dig deep into our inner strength to excel in our personal and professional lives. Today’s elite athlete shows tremendous discipline, resilience, determination, and grit, all traits that develop winners in life.

So much of life comes down to understanding your passion and having the willingness and grit to turn it into something great. It’s easy to dream. The hard part is doing the work. The hard part is developing the grit.

As the sponsor of thousands of elite athletes, USANA Health Sciences values excellence and well-being. Our top-tier nutritional products undergo rigorous testing and nurture body, mind, and spirit.

Thinking about the Olympics, I’m inspired by the remarkable dedication and persistence of these athletes. Their relentless pursuit of excellence teaches us valuable lessons that we can apply in our own lives.

7 Steps to Achieve Success Like Olympians

Drawing inspiration from these elite competitors, here are seven practical steps to achieve success.

1. Set Clear Goals

Define career and personal objectives with specific, measurable goals. Break them down into smaller, manageable tasks to maintain focus and direction.

2. Commit to Continuous Improvement

Constantly refine your skills; similarly, invest in lifelong learning. Attend workshops, seek mentorship, and stay updated with industry trends to stay ahead of the curve.

3. Embrace Failure as a Learning Opportunity

View setbacks as opportunities for growth. Reflect on failures, identify lessons learned, and apply them to improve future performance.

4. Cultivate a Winning Mindset

A positive mental attitude is crucial for success. Stay optimistic, focus on your strengths, and visualize achievements. This mindset will propel one forward, even in challenging times.

5. Build a Supportive Network

Rely on coaches, teammates, and supporters. Be surrounded by individuals who encourage and motivate. Networking can provide valuable advice, opportunities, and emotional support.

6. Maintain Physical and Mental Well-being

Prioritize health. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and mindfulness practices contribute to sustained energy and focus.

7. Celebrate Progress

Celebrate every milestone, big or small. Recognize and reward achievements along the way to stay motivated and appreciate the upward journey.

The Road to Success

By implementing these steps, you can channel the determination into your own pursuits and achieve higher levels in both your career and personal life. In my global travels, I’ve seen that the road to success is paved with continual effort, resilience, and an unwavering belief in your own potential.

I shared these thoughts in a news release published on Aug. 1, 2024. All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony, available on Amazon, uncovers 12 principles for living a life in harmony. It draws on the power of values to help find life’s success secrets. All proceeds feed hungry children, with each book purchase providing 40 meals.

International Day of Friendship: Peace, Unity & Harmony

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Earlier this year, I shared the importance of prioritizing in-person contact as we seek to improve connections and nurture friendships. I believe bringing people together builds relationships more effectively than anything else.

Each July we recognize the International Day of Friendship. It’s an opportunity to decrease divisions, increase harmony, and truly connect with the people who matter most to us.

As proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in establishing this special day, “friendship between peoples, countries, cultures, and individuals can inspire peace efforts and build bridges between communities.”

Peace and unity are worthwhile ideals that we should always strive to achieve. But, as we know, our world is complex and filled with differing views. Even the best of friends aren’t apt to agree all the time. That’s normal and healthy.

Yet, it’s readily apparent that friendships built on solid foundations and nurtured by care, compassion, and kindness overcome differences to endure and even thrive.

Efforts Are Rewarded

These types of valuable relationships take work. Though technology improves and simplifies our lives in many ways, modern communication methods—text, email, and social media, for instance—often threaten our ability to pick up on nuances and increase the potential for misunderstandings.

Sharing moments of laughter with friends enriches our lives in profound ways. It promotes understanding, empathy, and a sense of belonging.

As we celebrate International Day of Friendship, let’s not take for granted the friends in our lives. Reach out, spend quality time together, and create memories that will fuel our souls. I truly value the friendships I’ve made with people all over the world.

Friendship is a universal language that unites us. Meaningful connections enhance our own lives and, I believe, contribute to a more compassionate world.

I originally shared a version of this article in my monthly e-newsletter. To subscribe, please click here.

Maximizing National Give Something Away Day: 5 Tips for a Generous Life

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National Give Something Away Day, celebrated annually on July 15, encourages us to embrace generosity and selflessness. It’s a day to declutter, share with those in need, and spread joy within our communities.

In my All the Right Reasons book, I cite that Winston Churchill is credited with saying, “You make a living out of what you get. You make a life out of what you give.” So here are five ways we can make the most of this special day.

1. Reflect on Abundance

I love this thought because it has us taking a moment to appreciate what we have. Most of us are fortunate enough to have more than we need to live comfortably. Recognize your abundance—whether it’s material possessions, skills or time—and see how it sparks ideas to share.

2. Broaden Your Definition of Giving

This concept of expansion says that while tangible items like clothing, money, and food are valuable, we could consider other ways to give. Your skills, empathy, and compassion can be equally impactful. Sometimes, a kind word or a listening ear is often the greatest gift.

3. Pay It Forward

Next time you’re in line at the store, pay for the person behind you. Small acts of kindness ripple through the world, brightening someone’s day and fostering a sense of connection.

4. Random Acts of Kindness

Simple gestures like paying for someone’s coffee, leaving an encouraging note, or helping a neighbor with errands can have a huge effect. These small acts of kindness can brighten someone’s day and inspire them to pay it forward.

5. Encourage Others

Inspire your friends, family, and colleagues to participate. Share your experiences on social media using #GiveSomethingAwayDay. By spreading the message, you amplify the impact of giving.

National Give Something Away Day reminds us that giving enriches our lives. It’s not just about what we accumulate; it’s about the legacy of kindness we leave behind. So, let’s heed Churchill’s words and make our lives meaningful by giving generously.

Happy Give Something Away Day!

National Give Something Away Day | 5 Tips for a Generous Life | Kevin Guest

All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony, available on Amazon, uncovers 12 principles for living a life in harmony. It draws 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 all create a life focused on giving.

Social Wellness: 5 Tips to Form Meaningful Relationships

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Social wellness: Forming meaningful relationships and interacting positively with others. Not only does it enhance our emotional well-being, but it also significantly impacts our overall health.

At my first Grand Ole Opry performance with Collin Raye.

Strong social connections reduce stress, improve mental health, and even extend life expectancy. In a world where digital interactions often replace face-to-face communication, fostering real-world relationships is more important than ever.

July is Social Wellness Month. For the next 31 days, I challenge each of us to step out of our comfort zones and cultivate new social connections that can lead to a happier, healthier life.

When I step out of my comfort zone, I experience great results.

For instance, as I write about in my book, when I played with Collin Raye’s band at the Grand Ole Opry, I was so nervous before stepping on stage that my hands started shaking and my mouth went dry. But facing those fears opened doors to play the Opry again and fulfilled lifelong dreams in several areas.

Kevin Guest - Gene Simmons - Turn Up the Volume

From my book, All the Right Reasons. Meeting Gene Simmons for our Turn Up the Volume concept.

Early on, as my video production company was starting, I had a sudden opportunity to interview KISS frontman Gene Simmons for our “Turn Up the Volume” video series.

Trembling but oddly confident, I filmed the interview with Gene Simmons, which was one of the most thrilling experiences of my life. I went on to interview Jon Bon Jovi, Ozzy Osbourne, and many other rock stars. That one experience with Gene Simmons opened many doors and had an astonishing impact on my career.

Social Wellness: Create New Experiences

Here are five ways we can create strong connections and improve our social wellness.

1. Try New Activities

Sign up for a class, learn a musical instrument, or take up a hobby you’ve never considered. Novel experiences stimulate your brain and help you break free from monotony.

2. Connect with Different People

Join a social group to engage with diverse individuals and expose yourself to new perspectives and ideas.

3. Volunteer

Offer your time for a cause you’re passionate about to build connections with other volunteers and create a shared sense of purpose.

4. Embrace Spontaneity

Say yes to unexpected invitations, try a new restaurant, or take a different route home. Embracing spontaneity injects excitement into your routine.

5. Reconnect with Old Friends

Sometimes, enhancing social wellness means rekindling past relationships. Reach out to an old friend and plan a catch-up session.

Make Meaningful Social Connections

For Social Wellness Month, take the pledge to make meaningful social connections with your network and encourage others to join you in this journey toward enhanced social and mental wellness. Together, we can create a more connected and supportive community.

Social Wellness Month | Kevin Guest

I shared these thoughts in a news release published on July 1, 2024. All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony, available on Amazon, uncovers 12 principles for living a life in harmony. It draws on the power of values to help find life’s success secrets. All proceeds feed hungry children, with each book purchase providing 40 meals.

Celebrating World Day of Music: The Healing Power of Harmony

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This Friday, June 21, 2024, marks the celebration of World Day of Music, a day dedicated to honoring the universal language that brings people together and transcends cultural boundaries.

As you might imagine, this is one of my favorite celebrations because it encourages musicians worldwide to perform in public spaces and share their talent with others. The initiative has grown to become a global phenomenon, celebrated in over 120 countries today, reflecting the profound impact music has on our lives.

Music is not just a form of entertainment; it is a powerful force that can positively influence our well-being. Numerous studies have highlighted the benefits of music on mental health, productivity, creativity, and overall life satisfaction — all of which can lead to more harmony each day.

World Day of Music 2024Music and Mental Health

Research consistently shows that music can be a powerful tool for reducing stress and anxiety. Did you know that listening to music can lower blood pressure, slow the heart rate, and decrease stress hormone levels? This is especially relevant in today’s fast-paced world, where finding moments of calm is essential for maintaining mental health.

Listening to soothing music has been shown to reduce anxiety levels significantly. For instance, one study published in the Journal of Advanced Nursing reported that patients who listened to music before surgery experienced lower levels of anxiety compared to those who did not. Music therapy is also used as a complementary treatment for individuals suffering from chronic pain, depression, and PTSD, illustrating its profound therapeutic potential.

Enhancing Focus and Productivity

I like that in addition to its calming effects, music can boost focus and productivity. Instrumental music, in particular, has been found to improve concentration and cognitive performance. One study concluded that music engages areas of the brain involved with paying attention, making predictions, and updating events in memory.

Many professionals find that background music helps them stay focused and motivated during work or study sessions. For me, the rhythmic patterns and melodies can create an environment for deep work, allowing me to immerse myself in tasks and achieve better results.

Cultivating Creativity

My first band, Alibi, honed our craft in my parents’ basement. They were angels for lending us the room. We thought we were cooler than cool.
(Image Source: All the Right Reasons)

I started playing musical instruments when I was just 13 years old. (I even mowed lawns as a boy to pay back a loan for a cool drum set.)

Learning to play a musical instrument can greatly boost creativity and cognitive abilities. According to research published in the Journal of Neuroscience, musicians often display higher levels of creativity and problem-solving skills because learning to play music can be tough. The process of mastering an instrument involves continuous practice, patience, and innovation, all of which help strengthen brain power.

What’s more, those who participate in music programs tend to have better language development, higher IQ scores, and enhanced spatial-temporal skills, which are key for understanding math and science concepts.

Finding Harmony in Life

But the best thing about music for me is the harmony it brings. Music serves as a beautiful metaphor for achieving balance in various aspects of life. Just as different notes come together to create a pleasing melody, we have to strive to find harmony between work, relationships, hobbies, and personal health.

Balance is essential for improving productivity and well-being. Overworking without taking time to relax can lead to burnout. Neglecting personal relationships can result in loneliness. However, engaging in hobbies and activities that bring joy, such as playing music, can provide much-needed relief and contribute to a fulfilling life.

As we celebrate World Day of Music, let’s embrace the lessons music teaches us about harmony and balance. Whether we listen to our favorite songs, learn a new instrument, or simply appreciate the sounds around us, music has the power to enrich our lives in countless ways.

So take a moment to reflect on the role music plays in your life. Let it inspire you to seek balance, nurture your passions, and connect with others. Embrace music as a tool for personal growth and well-being, and allow its harmonies to guide you toward a more harmonious life.

World Service Week 2024: Deliver Acts of Kindness

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As I wrote recently, it’s easy to find happiness in helping others. Working alongside so many incredible volunteers on a recent humanitarian mission filled my heart with gratitude. And now, as we mark the 8th Annual USANA World Service Week (June 9-16, 2024), the desire to give back grows.

In my travels over the years, I’ve seen firsthand the positive difference kind gestures and helping hands can make. In our work with The USANA Foundation, volunteers have traveled the globe helping those in desperate need.

But I believe some of the most remarkable acts of service take place within our own communities. It could be helping a neighbor carry in groceries, volunteering at your local food bank or community center, or stocking a snack basket for delivery drivers.

Or maybe it’s simply “paying it forward” for a kind deed you’ve received.

Serving Others

Here are two recent articles on The USANA Foundation’s blog that speak to this year’s World Service Week:

No matter how you choose to express kindness during World Service Week, know that it’s making a difference. It’s often difficult for us to comprehend what others might be going through. A simple act of kindness — of giving back — could make a world of difference in the lives of those around you.

Thank you for your service to others, this week and every week.

Giving Back

Remember, service isn’t confined to one week. Throughout the year, you can donate, become a USANA Foundation Ambassador, or fundraise through the USANA Foundation website. Please share your projects and photos, and connect online with #WorldServiceWeek24.

As always, 100% of all USANA Foundation donations go toward helping those most in need. Plus, you can submit an application for the Matching Grant Program. If approved, for every dollar you raise for a food-related cause, the USANA Foundation will match it. Here’s where to apply.

Rebuild Your Life: 6 Steps for Increased Fulfillment

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As we enter Rebuild Your Life month, I invite everyone to use it as an opportunity to take proactive steps toward healthier, more fulfilling lives.

In my book, All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony, I introduce a tapestry of remarkable stories that underscore the power of positive change.

  • One example is that of Easy Eddie’s son, Butch, who, despite his father’s notorious past, became a decorated war hero and had Chicago O’Hare Airport named in his honor.
  • Another stirring narrative follows Immaculee Ilibagiza, who fled soldiers during Rwanda’s uprising and emerged as a beacon of hope and inspiration for countless others.

At USANA, we believe that true well-being starts with a commitment to healthy habits. Rebuild Your Life month can empower people to take control of their health and embark on a transformative journey.

Our actions, no matter how small, can create breakthrough moments, inspiring others to contribute to a better world. Below are six steps I believe can help each of us live a healthier and more fulfilling life.

6 Steps to ‘Rebuild Your Life’

  1. Start with Small Changes. Every great transformation begins with a single small step; start today and watch how each tiny change leads to a healthier, happier you.
  2. Declutter Your Mind and Space. Schedule a “brain dump” session, and write all your worries, anxieties, and to-dos. Then, categorize them and prioritize what needs your attention. Even taking time to declutter a physical space creates a sense of order and frees up mental space.
  3. Reignite Your Passions. Rediscover old loves and dust off a favorite hobby you once enjoyed. You can also take a class, sign up for a weekend workshop, or volunteer for a cause you like.
  4. Reconnect with Loved Ones. Reach out to old friends or family you haven’t connected with in a while. Schedule a call, plan a visit, or simply send a heartfelt message. One thing we learned from the pandemic is the importance of community. Join a local group based on your interests and see a whole new world open.
  5. Practice Gratitude. Whether you write three things you’re grateful for daily or shift your focus to positivity and appreciation, gratitude is a superpower for rebuilding good days and a great life. Even doing random acts of kindness can quickly get you outside of yourself in a meaningful way.
  6. Practice Peaceful Thinking. For instant results, incorporate practices such as meditation or yoga, which can greatly reduce stress and bring a world of mental clarity.

Empowered to Make Positive Changes

Simply put, Rebuild Your Life month is about empowering people to make positive changes that can lead to a healthier, more fulfilling life.

From Steve Jobs to Walt Disney to Martha Stewart to Butch O’Hare, we have plenty of real-life examples of people who have rebuilt their lives and found fulfillment. When you believe in your dreams and follow what makes you happy, you can rebuild your life.

Prioritize Self-Care with These 3 Tips

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When I consider customer experience, I think of Simon & Garfunkel’s “Keep the Customer Satisfied.” It’s a great tune with a solid message for success. Taking it one level higher, remember the most important customer you will ever have is you. Just like we strive to provide exceptional service to our clients, it’s key to extend the same level of care and attention to ourselves through self-care.

As I shared on LinkedIn earlier in the year, here are three key ways I’ve found to prioritize self-care:

1. Mindful Breaks

Schedule short breaks during the day. Take a walk, practice deep breathing, or indulge in a quick mindfulness exercise. These activities boost productivity and rejuvenate the mind.

3 Ways to Prioritize Self-Care | Kevin Guest2. Personal Growth

Continually develop your skills and knowledge through workshops, online courses, books, or mentoring programs. Set aside dedicated time each week for learning and growth.

3. Boundaries Matter

Set clear boundaries between work and personal life. Turn off notifications after work hours and create a dedicated space for relaxation. Balance fosters sustained success.

By taking care of ourselves, we enhance our professional performance while also cultivating overall well-being. Let’s make every day a celebration of excellent self-care!

I originally shared these thoughts in a LinkedIn post published on Jan. 15, 2024. All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony, 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.

Service Journeys: Finding Happiness in Helping Others

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I just returned from a humanitarian service trip to Kenya and the Philippines, a profound experience that reshaped our perspectives and deepened our commitment to making a difference. As we dove headfirst into the vibrant cultures of these regions, the stark living conditions and the resilience of the people we met left an indelible mark on our hearts.

Building Garden Towers: Nurturing Sustainable Futures

One of the initiatives that resonated deeply with us was to build garden towers that would empower communities to grow their own food sustainably. Seeing the enthusiasm and hope in the eyes of the locals as they learned to tend to these towers was truly inspiring. By promoting self-sufficiency and healthy eating habits, we not only enhanced their diets but helped them foster a sense of self-reliance and community pride.

Clean Water Initiatives: Quenching a Vital Need

Access to clean drinking water is a fundamental human right, yet it remains a luxury for many in remote villages. So we brought fresh water to these communities, and here’s what got me the most: the joy and gratitude in the happy faces of the villagers. Truly humbling. And a deep reminder of how such a simple resource can significantly impact health, well-being, and overall quality of life—the power of something as basic as clean water.

Resilience and Joy: Unveiling the Beauty of Spirit

Despite facing challenges and living without many modern conveniences we often take for granted, the people we met exuded a remarkable sense of happiness and positivity. Their ability to find joy in simplicity and their unwavering spirit of resilience left us in awe. It served as a powerful lesson on the true essence of happiness and the richness of life beyond material possessions.

Humanitarian Service Journey: Transforming Lives in Kenya and the Philippines

In retrospect, our journey to Kenya and the Philippines was not just about providing aid; it was a reciprocal exchange of compassion, learning, and hope. The bonds we forged and the lives we touched serve as a testament to the transformative impact of collective action and the enduring power of empathy.

As we carry these memories forward, we are reminded that happiness can be found in simplicity, and true fulfillment lies in serving others and fostering a brighter, more equitable world for all.

I invite you to step outside of your comfort zone, to embrace the opportunity to serve others, and to find joy in the simplicity of everyday life.