Family Bond: 3 Key Elements to Strengthen Relationships

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My family has been my greatest source of strength and inspiration. From my parents, who instilled the values of integrity and resilience in me, to my loving spouse, children, and grandchildren, who continually remind me of the importance of balance and connection, every member of my growing family has played a pivotal role in shaping who I am today.

In May, we recognize Family Wellness Month, an initiative that highlights the importance of family health and unity.

Families form the bedrock of our society, and their health is paramount to our collective future. It’s through the lens of my own experiences, from the invaluable lessons learned at the side of my parents, the shared growth with my spouse, and the joys and challenges of raising children, that I’ve come to appreciate the profound impact of family on a person’s well-being.

Strengthen Family Bonds

I recommend three things to strengthen these important bonds:

  1. Connect
  2. Set a family health goal
  3. Communicate regularly

Connect

As we put down our devices and connect with family members, we improve relations with those who have supported us all along.

Set a Health Goal

When we share a health goal, such as exercise or better eating, we unite with a sense of teamwork.

Communicate

And when we work to communicate regularly, we strengthen each other along life’s journey.

My reflections on family wellness are not confined to my personal sphere. They extend into my professional realm at USANA, which embraces a mission to create The Healthiest Family on Earth.

At USANA, we see ourselves as one big family, united in our mission to promote health around the globe. Our work is more than just business; it’s a passion fueled by the belief in making positive changes.

Sharing our stories and core values can inspire others to recognize the value of these important bonds.

As we come together to celebrate Family Wellness Month, let’s remember that our efforts today will pave the way for a healthier, more vibrant future. Together, as families and as a community, we have the power to create a healthier, happier future for ourselves and our loved ones.

I originally shared these thoughts in a news release published on May 3, 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.

7 Creative and Actionable Self-Improvement Ideas for May’s Self-Improvement Month

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Hey there, fellow self-improvement enthusiasts! With May’s fresh blooms comes an equally refreshing experience — Self-Improvement Month. It’s the perfect time to sprinkle a bit of extra sparkle on our daily routines and maybe transform our lives in small yet significant ways.

I’m here to share some creative and easy self-improvement ideas that are not only fun but are guaranteed to add some zing to your life. No worries, though. I’ve made sure these suggestions are as engaging as binge-watching your favorite series. Ready?

1. Declutter Your Space — and Mind!

There’s something magical about decluttering. It’s like telling the universe, “Hey, I’m ready for all the good stuff now.” Start with your room, then your workspace, and finally, tackle those digital devices. Delete apps you haven’t used in months, organize files into folders, and voila — watch how clarity replaces chaos. Not only will you find things easier (hello, car keys), but a clear space also leads to a clear mind.

Tip: Set a timer for 20 minutes each day for decluttering. You’ll be amazed at how much you can get done without feeling overwhelmed.

2. Take Up a New Hobby

Ever wanted to learn the drums (my first love) or the guitar (my second)? Or maybe pottery? Now’s the moment! Picking up a new hobby challenges your brain in the best possible way, fostering creativity and boosting your mood. Plus, it’s a fabulous conversation starter.

Tip: Start small. Dedicate 30 minutes three times a week to your new hobby. YouTube tutorials are great for beginners and mostly free!

3. Set Personal Challenges

Why wait for New Year’s resolutions when you can set monthly challenges? It could be anything from jogging every morning, reading before bed, or even mastering the art of making the perfect omelet. Challenges keep us motivated and give us a sense of achievement.

Tip: Make your challenges fun and achievable. Share them with a friend for added accountability.

4. Practice Gratitude

It’s easy to get caught up in what we don’t have, right? But shifting focus to what we DO have can significantly improve our mood and outlook on life. Try spending five minutes each morning or evening jotting down things you’re thankful for. Trust me, it’s a game-changer.

Tip: Keep a gratitude journal by your bedside. It’s the last thing you see before sleep and the first thing you see in the morning.

5. Digital Detox

I love this suggestion! In this age of constant connectivity, taking a step back from our screens can help reduce stress and improve interpersonal connections. Try designating “screen-free” hours during your day or dedicate an entire day of the week as a digital detox day.

Tip: Use an old-fashioned alarm clock instead of your phone to avoid screen time right before bed. Your sleep quality will thank you.

6. Learn Something New Every Day

With the world quite literally at our fingertips, learning has never been so accessible. Subscribe to a daily newsletter, listen to podcasts, or join a webinar. (One of my favorites is to listen to books.) Whatever you prefer, expanding your knowledge not only makes you more interesting but also opens up new possibilities.

Tip: Choose diverse sources to broaden your perspective. Sometimes, the most fascinating ideas come from where we least expect them.

7. Volunteer

Giving back is incredibly fulfilling and gives us a sense of purpose. Look for local charities or online platforms where you can volunteer your time or skills. Whether it’s helping at a food bank or teaching skills online, your contribution makes a difference. At USANA Health Sciences, teams of associates and leaders regularly help pack food bags for kids at USANA Kids Eat. The feeling we get each time? An extremely rewarding sense of doing a little good for others.

Tip: Start small. Even a couple of hours a month can have a big impact.

And there you have it. Seven simple yet powerful self-improvement ideas to rock this May (and beyond!). Remember, the goal isn’t to overhaul your life overnight but to make small changes that lead to big results over time.

Here’s to a May filled with growth, laughter, and a whole lot of self-love. Cheers to improving ourselves, one day at a time!

Oh, and don’t forget to share your self-improvement journeys with me. I’d love to cheer you on!

 

Kindness Counts: Make a Difference Today

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Earlier this year, we celebrated Random Acts of Kindness Week. It’s an opportunity to emphasize something that should be a daily priority. Expressing kindness toward others (and toward ourselves) is so important.

Express KindnessIn thinking about this notion, here are three often overlooked, yet profound benefits of spreading kindness.

  1. It fosters community connectedness: When you extend a hand, you’re not just helping someone; you’re building bridges and weaving a tapestry of compassion that spans across ages, backgrounds, and locations.
  2. Experience a ripple effect: It’s happened to me. Someone’s single act can inspire others, creating a cascade of positivity. Imagine, your one gesture could set off a chain reaction of goodwill!
  3. It’s a boon to your well-being: Studies show that performing kind acts releases endorphins, which boost your mood and reduce stress levels.

Let’s start a kindness revolution! Remember, every act, big or small, has the potential to make a world of difference. And you have the power to create change.

I originally shared these thoughts in a LinkedIn article published on Feb. 14, 2024.

Stress Management: 7 Effective Strategies for a Healthier Life

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In honor of April’s Stress Awareness Month, it’s critical to shine a light on the significance of stress management in maintaining both mental and physical well-being. In my book, All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony, I’ve found that living in harmony with your values brings untold benefits.

Conversely, chronic stress can affect our mood, and impact our relationships and overall health. To combat the negative results of stress, I feel it’s essential to incorporate effective stress management strategies into our daily routines.

Why? First, stress management is not just a trendy concept; it’s a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle. Research has shown that managing stress can lead to better sleep, weight control, reduced muscle tension, improved mood, and enhanced interpersonal relationships. What’s more, chronic stress has been linked to conditions such as depression, anxiety and low tolerance levels, highlighting the urgency of addressing stress proactively.

So during April’s Stress Awareness Month, please try any of these 7 effective strategies to reduce stress.

1. Mindfulness Exercises

Scenario: Practice deep breathing or guided meditation when feeling overwhelmed at work or before bedtime.
Benefits: Helps in centering oneself, reducing anxiety, and promoting relaxation.

2. Regular Exercise

Scenario: Engage in a morning walk or attend a yoga class to kickstart your day positively.
Benefits: Releases endorphins, improves mood, and boosts overall health.

3. Healthy Eating Habits

Scenario: Opt for a balanced meal with vegetables and fresh fruits rather than processed foods during lunch.
Benefits: Provides essential nutrients for energy, enhances mood stability and supports brain function.

4. Quality Sleep

Scenario: Establish a bedtime routine by disconnecting from screens and reading a real book before sleep.
Benefits: Restores energy levels, improves cognitive performance and regulates emotions.

5. Social Support

Scenario: Connect with a friend for a chat.
Benefits: Offers emotional validation, reduces feelings of isolation and fosters a sense of belonging.

6. Time Management

Scenario: I said this in my LinkedIn post but create a to-do list to prioritize tasks and allocate time for breaks.
Benefits: Enhances productivity, reduces procrastination and prevents burnout.

7. Hobbies and Relaxation

Scenario: Dedicate time to painting, gardening or listening to music (my favorite!) as a form of self-care.
Benefits: Promotes creativity, reduces cortisol levels and provides a mental escape.

By applying these seven strategies into daily life, you can effectively manage stress, improve your overall well-being, and cultivate resilience in the face of life’s challenges.

Remember, prioritizing stress management isn’t a one-time fix but a journey toward holistic health and wellness. Start small, stay consistent and witness the transformative power of proactive stress management in your life.

5 Ways to Cultivate a Growth Mindset

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Possessing a growth mindset is critical, especially as the business world evolves at an unprecedented rate. Recent findings underscore that companies fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptability outperform their competitors significantly.

What is a growth mindset? It’s the belief that talents and abilities can be developed through hard work, good strategies, and input from others. It stands as a cornerstone for innovation and resilience in today’s ever-competitive market. Spring is a time for renewal and growth. Therefore, it serves as the perfect backdrop to highlight the importance of nurturing a growth mindset in the business realm.

Kevin Guest - Video ProductionCarol Dweck, a renowned psychologist and author of Mindset: The New Psychology of Success, said: “In a growth mindset, challenges are extended invitations to learn.”

Business leaders who exemplify a growth mindset are those who are not afraid to take risks, experiment with new ideas, and adapt to changing market conditions. They approach problems with a blend of creativity and pragmatism, viewing obstacles not as barriers but as opportunities to learn and evolve.

Develop a Growth Mindset

The good news is that a growth mindset can be developed. Here are a few tips:

  1. Reframe challenges: View challenges as opportunities to learn and grow
  2. Focus on effort: Believe that your abilities can improve with effort and practice
  3. Celebrate learning: Embrace a passion for lifelong learning
  4. Seek feedback: Actively seek feedback from others and use it to improve
  5. Foster a supportive environment: Encourage risk-taking and celebrate effort over mere outcomes

After an embarrassing experience presenting a proposal to a major Texas retailer decades ago, my then-business partner and I could have felt like failures. Instead, we channeled our experience into fuel for their ambitions, propelling us toward success.

As I write in All the Right Reasons, during a long layover in the Denver airport, Shawn and I wrote a business plan on the back of about 20 napkins. This laid the groundwork for our highly successful video production company in the years ahead. Yes, we were humiliated. But we didn’t let the experience break us. Shawn and I still laugh whenever we talk about that experience. Our belief in ourselves and our growth mindset made all the difference.

Reason No. 9: The Cardboard Keyboard Principle (video)

I originally shared these thoughts in a news release published on April 2, 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.

Golden Rule Week: Treat Others with the Respect You Deserve

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Imagine a world where everyone treats each other with the same respect and kindness they crave themselves. That’s the power of the Golden Rule!

We celebrate this timeless principle the first week of April. And it’s not just about being polite; it’s about building genuine connections in every aspect of life.

Kevin Guest - Golden Rule Week - April 2024 LinkedIn

Picture this: At work, a supportive colleague offers clear feedback instead of harsh criticism, fostering a culture of learning. In our personal lives, a patient ear and a helping hand go a long way in strengthening bonds with loved ones. In schools, students actively listen to classmates, creating a safe space for diverse perspectives.

The Golden Rule isn’t just about what we say; it’s about empathy. By putting ourselves in another’s shoes, we can truly understand their needs and respond accordingly.

Feeling heard and valued is a cornerstone of strong relationships, and the Golden Rule is the key that unlocks that door. Read more in my book on page 39: “I like to look you in the eye.”

This week, challenge yourself to embrace the Golden Rule. Actively listen, offer support, and treat others with the respect you deserve. You might be surprised at its positive ripple effect on your big and small connections.

I originally shared these thoughts in a LinkedIn post published on April 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 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.

Listening as Leaders: Realizing 7 Benefits

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I believe it’s so important to develop strong interpersonal skills. Becoming a better listener is a priority for me. Listening — truly listening to understand — is a lost art.

March is Listening Awareness Month. Throughout the month, I’ve considered ways leaders can benefit from becoming better listeners. I shared four benefits on LinkedIn, which I’ve listed below, and included three additional benefits.

Connect with me on LinkedIn

Listening as Leaders

  1. Builds trust, respect, and relationships
  2. Uncovers hidden gems
  3. Encourages innovation and creativity
  4. Sharpens your decision-making skills

Additionally, never underestimate how becoming a better listener can have a positive impact on those around us.

  1. Strengthens emotional intelligence and empathy
  2. Promotes inclusivity and diversity of thought
  3. Boosts employee engagement

Great listeners who follow through are positioned to empower teams to work at their highest levels. In my career, I’ve intentionally surrounded myself with those who knew more about a key matter than I did. I listened to their perspective, applied my own knowledge, and implemented the best action. That formula has worked for me.

Previously, I shared thoughts on Interpersonal Tips for Success. Unsurprisingly, working to become a better listener made the list.

 

7 Key Benefits to Listening as Leaders

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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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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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.