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.
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’
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
https://www.kevinguest.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Kevin-Guest-Logo-White.svg00Kevin Guesthttps://www.kevinguest.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Kevin-Guest-Logo-White.svgKevin Guest2024-06-03 06:00:362024-06-03 08:58:43Rebuild Your Life: 6 Steps for Increased Fulfillment
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.
2. 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.
https://www.kevinguest.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Kevin-Guest-Logo-White.svg00Kevin Guesthttps://www.kevinguest.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Kevin-Guest-Logo-White.svgKevin Guest2024-05-28 18:00:002024-08-26 11:21:34Prioritize Self-Care with These 3 Tips
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.
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.
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:
Connect
Set a family health goal
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.
https://www.kevinguest.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Kevin-Guest-Logo-White.svg00Kevin Guesthttps://www.kevinguest.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Kevin-Guest-Logo-White.svgKevin Guest2024-05-09 07:00:112024-05-08 11:13:16Family Bond: 3 Key Elements to Strengthen Relationships
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!
https://www.kevinguest.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Kevin-Guest-Logo-White.svg00Kevin Guesthttps://www.kevinguest.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Kevin-Guest-Logo-White.svgKevin Guest2024-04-29 19:25:162024-04-29 19:31:357 Creative and Actionable Self-Improvement Ideas for May’s Self-Improvement Month
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.
In thinking about this notion, here are three often overlooked, yet profound benefits of spreading kindness.
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.
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!
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.
https://www.kevinguest.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Kevin-Guest-Logo-White.svg00Kevin Guesthttps://www.kevinguest.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Kevin-Guest-Logo-White.svgKevin Guest2024-04-22 08:55:032024-04-22 08:55:03Kindness Counts: Make a Difference Today
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.
https://www.kevinguest.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Kevin-Guest-Logo-White.svg00Kevin Guesthttps://www.kevinguest.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Kevin-Guest-Logo-White.svgKevin Guest2024-04-10 10:08:392024-04-10 10:51:13Stress Management: 7 Effective Strategies for a Healthier Life
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.
Carol 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:
Reframe challenges: View challenges as opportunities to learn and grow
Focus on effort: Believe that your abilities can improve with effort and practice
Celebrate learning: Embrace a passion for lifelong learning
Seek feedback: Actively seek feedback from others and use it to improve
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.
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.
https://www.kevinguest.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Kevin-Guest-Logo-White.svg00Kevin Guesthttps://www.kevinguest.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Kevin-Guest-Logo-White.svgKevin Guest2024-04-08 16:03:462024-04-08 16:03:465 Ways to Cultivate a Growth Mindset
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.
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.
https://www.kevinguest.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Kevin-Guest-Logo-White.svg00Kevin Guesthttps://www.kevinguest.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Kevin-Guest-Logo-White.svgKevin Guest2024-04-02 10:00:402024-04-01 16:22:58Golden Rule Week: Treat Others with the Respect You Deserve
