Tag Archive for: news release

The Most Meaningful Gifts Are the Ones Money Can’t Buy

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Creative gestures and shared experiences form the foundation of lasting love.

National Make a Gift Day (Dec. 3) is a call to generosity and intentionality, encouraging people to craft something meaningful for someone they care about.

Meaningful Gifts | Kevin GuestLong before I led USANA Health Sciences or became a bestselling author, I was a college student trying to win the heart of a woman who would eventually become my wife. The problem? She had a serious boyfriend.

I knew if I was going to win her heart, I had to be extraordinary—and extraordinarily creative. That meant no typical dinners or movies. Instead, I turned dates into personalized experiences: a surprise meal and firepit outside ancient ice caves, a science-lab-themed dinner, drinking through beakers and test tubes, and impromptu jam sessions where couples formed their own makeshift bands in the music room.

We came up with all sorts of creative activities. And we still enjoy creative dates to this day.

Decades later, my wife and I are still crafting creative memories. For our 30th anniversary, we leaned into humor and heart, camping at a Walmart in our RV and dressing in thrifted leisure suits to make a music video for our kids.

Gifts aren’t always wrapped in bows. Sometimes the best gift is presence, effort, and creating a memory together. Those are the things that last.

I often speak about the power of service and creativity in building strong relationships—both personally and professionally. My book All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony explores these themes through real-life stories and heartfelt lessons.

Service and Creativity: The Lasting Impact

The principles behind creative giving (e.g., intentionality, presence, and connection) can also strengthen relationships, boost resilience, and inspire service. In fact, my book’s proceeds support the USANA Foundation, which provides food and nutrition to underserved communities worldwide.

Service is one of the most powerful ways we can uplift others and nourish our own well-being.

To date, All the Right Reasons has provided more than 1.8 million meals through its partnership with the USANA Foundation. Each book purchased contributes 40 meals to those in need.

I shared a version of this article in a news release on Dec. 3, 2025. USANA Health Sciences, a global leader in health and wellness products, has long recognized the importance of social wellness in building a successful business. Since its founding in 1992, USANA has focused on clear, concise communication to build trust with its customers and distributors in 25 countries. For more information about USANA Health Sciences and its dedication to promoting health, wellness, and entrepreneurial success, visit USANA.com. 

Lead with Authenticity, Empathy, & Moral Clarity

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As business leaders worldwide focus on re-energizing workforces after years of upheaval, I urge CEOs to lead with renewed authenticity, empathy, and moral clarity. I call these principles “the real foundation of sustainable success.”

No doubt, technology and strategy will always matter. But what truly binds a company together is trust. When people feel seen, valued, and inspired, they do their best work, and that’s how you create a culture that thrives through any storm.

This notion aligns with a growing leadership movement that emphasizes employee well-being, personalized experiences, and transparent communication. As CEOs champion what many call the “great re-engagement,” I believe the key lies not in new perks or digital platforms, but in timeless human connection.

The best leaders don’t just talk about values; they live them. Every decision should be made for all the right reasons, not just the convenient ones.

A Leader Guided by Principle and Purpose

In All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony, I draw on my personal experiences—from rebuilding after loss to navigating corporate challenges—to illustrate that values-driven leadership is both a moral compass and a business advantage.

I recount scrapping a multimillion-dollar product batch at USANA rather than compromising on quality, a decision that solidified USANA’s reputation for integrity. When you commit to your core values, you change your destiny.

That principle echoes my current call for executives to prioritize holistic employee wellness—mental, physical, and financial health—as a business imperative, not a benefit.

You can’t separate people’s well-being from their performance. When leaders invest in the whole person, they build loyalty that no salary can buy.

Central to this philosophy is what I call “The Dorothy Principle.” It’s a concept that says, Nothing is more important than relationships. Genuine connections are the most valuable asset in any endeavor.

People matter more than things. I partly measure success by the number of lives improved as a result of what I do and by the quality of my personal, one-on-one relationships.

This perspective challenges leaders to look beyond transactional interactions and invest in the well-being of those around them.

From Music to Mission

My career reflects a harmony between passion and purpose. A lifelong musician, I once gave up my dream of becoming a full-time rock performer to follow a deeper calling.

Music taught me about rhythm and harmony. But life taught me that true harmony comes from aligning what you do with what you believe.

This “life in harmony” philosophy has shaped both my leadership at USANA and my mentorship of emerging leaders worldwide. All the Right Reasons (Amazon link) reminds readers that lasting success comes from integrity, gratitude, and service to others.

Looking Ahead

I envision a future where companies serve not only shareholders, but also stakeholders, including employees, families, and communities. If we want to re-engage our teams, we must re-engage our humanity. That’s the kind of leadership that endures.

I shared a version of this article in a news release on Nov. 3, 2025. All the Right Reasons offers further insights into expressing empathy and finding purpose. All proceeds go to feeding hungry children, and each book purchase provides 40 meals. 

USANA Health Sciences, a global leader in health and wellness products, has long recognized the importance of social wellness in building a successful business. From its founding in 1992, USANA has focused on clear and concise communication to build trust with its customers and distributors in 25 countries. For more information about USANA Health Sciences and its dedication to promoting health, wellness, and entrepreneurial success, visit USANA.com. 

Service Mentality: 6 Ways Giving Back Strengthens Leaders

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As Emotional Wellness Month begins, I believe service is one of the most overlooked but powerful ways to strengthen mental well-being and emotional balance, especially for those in leadership roles.

Service is the clearest expression of our best selves. When leaders serve others, it keeps them grounded, emotionally regulated, and focused on what truly matters.

Giving back is more than an act of kindness; it’s a vital leadership mindset. My long-standing commitment to service reinforces the idea that emotional strength is built through outward compassion.

Philanthropy and purpose-driven work don’t just help others; they anchor us. When we look beyond ourselves, we become more balanced, more robust, and more in tune with what truly matters.

In that spirit, here are six powerful ways that simple acts of service, such as volunteering or offering support, can transform our thinking.

6 Ways Service Strengthens Mental Resilience

1. It disrupts negative thinking.

Helping someone else short-circuits our inner critic and re-centers us in purpose.

2. It restores clarity and perspective.

Service helps us remember we’re part of something bigger. It shrinks stress and builds stronger empathy.

3. It energizes the giver.

A lifelong musician, I liken generosity to music. The more you give, the more alive you feel. Giving is like harmony in song—you feel it resonate.

4. It rewires and reshapes emotional patterns.

Service strengthens our neural pathways for gratitude, empathy, and courage. It becomes easier to stay calm in difficult moments.

5. It grounds and reaffirms your identity.

In giving, we remember who we really are. Not our title, not our task list, but our values.

6. It strengthens bonds and fosters connections.

I’ve seen that teams who serve together are stronger together. Mental health isn’t just individual—it’s relational.

Unwavering Service & Loyalty

All the Right Reasons | Kevin GuestIn All the Right Reasons, I recount personal moments where service to others had a lasting emotional impact.

After years as a trusted bookkeeper for Superior Buildings Lumber Co., my father was gifted a share of the business by its owner, Mr. Crum. When Crum grew older and moved into a nursing home, my father visited him every other day—shaving him, caring for him, and offering steadfast companionship.

My father became like an adopted son to the Crum family because of his unwavering service and loyalty. Dad’s example was a powerful reminder that the most enduring legacies are built through simple, consistent acts of care—not for recognition but out of love and devotion.

Such examples throughout All the Right Reasons illustrate my core belief that the virtue of service is resilience training that strengthens leaders.

To me, wellness is more than nutrition—it’s emotional, physical, social, and spiritual. And nothing nourishes all four quite like service.

I shared a version of this article in a news release on Oct. 1, 2025. All the Right Reasons provides more inspiring examples of self-improvement. All proceeds go to feeding hungry children, and each book purchase provides 40 meals. 

USANA Health Sciences, a global leader in health and wellness products, has long recognized the importance of social wellness in building a successful business. From its founding in 1992, USANA has focused on clear and concise communication to build trust with its customers and distributors in 25 countries. For more information about USANA Health Sciences and its dedication to promoting health, wellness, and entrepreneurial success, visit USANA.com. 

3 Under-the-Radar Ways to Power Self-Improvement

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In celebration of September’s Self-Improvement Month, I encourage individuals to take meaningful steps toward personal growth and self-betterment. With the U.S. self-improvement industry valued at $12 billion annually, this month is a reminder that the journey to becoming our best selves is both a personal and collective endeavor.

True success isn’t just about achieving your goals; it’s about living a life of purpose, harmony, and fulfillment. Self-Improvement Month is the perfect time to reflect on where we are and where we want to be. It’s about taking small, consistent steps that lead to big, transformative changes.

The Power of Preparation: A Personal Story

All the Right Reasons | Kevin GuestMy own journey underscores the importance of self-improvement. In All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony, I recount a pivotal moment early in my career. While running a video production business, I faced a challenging project with a client whose payment checks repeatedly bounced. Despite the financial strain, this experience taught me invaluable lessons about preparation, integrity, and trusting my instincts.

Had I not been investing in myself, such as reading business books, attending workshops, and honing my skills, I wouldn’t have been equipped to navigate those challenges. Opportunities are always there for the prepared. That’s why self-improvement is so critical; it’s the foundation for resilience and success.

Observing Self-Improvement Month

I encourage everyone to embrace the spirit of self-improvement with three unique ways that often fly under the radar:

3 Under-the-Radar Ways to Spur Personal Growth | Kevin Guest

1. Conduct a “Life Audit” with a Trusted Friend

This might be bold, but instead of just journaling or reflecting solo, invite a trusted friend or mentor to help you audit your life. Break it down into categories such as health, relationships, career, and personal growth. Have an honest conversation about what’s working, what’s not, and where you can improve. This external perspective can uncover blind spots and provide actionable insights you might miss on your own.

2. Create a “Reverse Bucket List”

Flip the bucket list concept and make a list of everything you’ve already accomplished—big or small. Reflecting on your past wins can boost your confidence and help you identify success patterns you can replicate in future self-improvement efforts. It’s a great way to celebrate progress while setting the stage for new goals.

3. Learn a “Survival Skill”

Self-improvement isn’t just about mental or emotional growth. It can also mean becoming more self-reliant. Take a class or watch tutorials on practical survival skills like basic first aid, cooking a new cuisine, or even learning how to sew or fix household items. These skills not only boost confidence but also prepare one for unexpected situations.

Self-Improvement: A Step Toward Harmony

Self-improvement is empowering because it reminds us that we have the power to shape our lives. Whether it’s starting a new habit, learning a skill, or simply taking time to reflect, every self-improvement step forward is a step toward harmony.

I shared a version of this article in a news release on Sept. 2, 2025. All the Right Reasons provides more inspiring examples of self-improvement. All proceeds go to feeding hungry children, and each book purchase provides 40 meals. 

USANA Health Sciences, a global leader in health and wellness products, has long recognized the importance of social wellness in building a successful business. From its founding in 1992, USANA has focused on clear and concise communication to build trust with its customers and distributors in 25 countries. For more information about USANA Health Sciences and its dedication to promoting health, wellness, and entrepreneurial success, visit USANA.com. 

Wellness Check: 7 Daily Habits for Lasting Health

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With August marking National Wellness Month, I encourage each of us to embrace small daily habits that lead to lasting mental, physical, and emotional wellness.

Wellness isn’t something you check off a list; it’s a rhythm you live. You don’t have to overhaul your life. But if you shift a few daily choices, you’ll be amazed by how much calmer, clearer, and more energized you feel.

Along with exercise, proper nutrition, service to others, and a passion for music, here are seven daily habits that support long-term well-being and harmony.

National Wellness Month Kevin Guest1. Start with Stillness

Whether through meditation, prayer, or a few deep breaths in a quiet place, five minutes of quiet can reset your entire day. Stillness creates clarity.

2. Fuel with Intention

You can’t chase your dreams on junk fuel. What you feed your body determines your energy, resilience, and mood.

3. Move Every Day

You don’t need a gym membership to move. Take a walk. Stretch. Dance in your kitchen. Your body was made to move.

4. Speak Kindly, Especially to Yourself

I almost missed my first Grand Ole Opry performance because of self-doubt. That inner voice matters. Make sure it’s a kind one.

5. Choose Connection

Wellness is more than solo self-care. Strong relationships are essential. In fact, I’ve found that relationships are the most important thing. Surround yourself with people who lift you up. Also, be there for them.

6. Protect Your Yes

It’s not selfish to rest. When you overcommit, you burn out, so it’s okay to say no to anything that doesn’t light you up. In reality, boundaries are one of the highest forms of self-respect.

7. End With Gratitude

A daily gratitude practice doesn’t have to be long. Name three things you’re thankful for. It rewires your brain toward peace.

These habits align with the mission of National Wellness Month to inspire proactive steps toward better health. It’s not about perfection, it’s about participation. In reality, everyone deserves a life that feels good to live.

As shared in All the Right Reasons, many of Guest’s habits are rooted in real-life experiences, from boardroom presentations to backstage nerves. “I’ve stood at literal and figurative crossroads where anxiety almost beat me down,” he said. “From my first performance at Grand Ol’ Opry to presenting in front of a packed arena, I’ve felt the damage of negative self-talk, but I’ve learned that preparation, purpose, and small daily acts create confidence that lets you share your gifts confidently and lift others higher.”

I shared a version of this article in a news release on Aug. 4, 2025. All the Right Reasons provides more inspiring examples of learning from mistakes and living well. All proceeds go to feeding hungry children, and each book purchase provides 40 meals. 

USANA Health Sciences, a global leader in health and wellness products, has long recognized the importance of social wellness in building a successful business. From its founding in 1992, USANA has focused on clear and concise communication to build trust with its customers and distributors in 25 countries. For more information about USANA Health Sciences and its dedication to promoting health, wellness, and entrepreneurial success, visit USANA.com. 

5 Ways to Champion Your Personal Independence

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July, especially in the United States, is synonymous with independence and freedom. This month, wherever you live in the world, I encourage individuals and families to celebrate freedom on a personal level through self-care.

Research reveals numerous global celebrations honoring freedom, from America’s Independence Day on July 4 to the unifying spirit of Canada Day on July 1, and many others around the world.

Freedom is more than a national observance; it’s deeply personal, complex, and transformational. Even if freedom may feel out of reach, I invite everyone to take control of their own personal independence and live a life in harmony.

5 Ways to Champion Your Own Independence | Kevin GuestChampion Your Own Independence

To honor freedom in one’s life, here are five ways to break free and celebrate the possibilities.

1. Release Limiting Beliefs

Are you stuck in rigid narratives about what you can or cannot do? Rewrite them. Freedom flourishes when your belief system aligns with your true potential.

2. Overcome Self-Doubt

I’ve learned there is power in silencing the inner critic. To do so, recognize your achievements, no matter how small, and lean into your strengths. Confidence isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity.

3. Leave Toxic Relationships Behind

Whether it’s a friendship, partnership, or professional connection, anything that drains your energy and stifles your growth needs to be booted. You deserve better.

4. Defeat Loneliness

Build bridges, not walls. Surround yourself with people who celebrate your wins and uplift you when life gets you down. A strong network of supporters brings a solid sense of freedom.

5. Say Goodbye to Burnout and People-Pleasing

Stop setting yourself on fire to keep others warm. It’s vital to set boundaries, rest, and celebrate the freedom to prioritize yourself.

Free Yourself From Negative Self-Talk

A few years ago, I was preparing to perform with country music superstar Collin Raye’s band at the Grand Ole Opry for the first time. Negative self-talk nearly immobilized me.

At my first Grand Ole Opry performance with Collin Raye, I was as nervous as the Opry was grand, but Collin calmed me with wise counsel.

Standing backstage waiting for our turn to go on, I became increasingly anxious as I convinced myself these negative thoughts were true. My hands started shaking, and my mouth went dry. How was I supposed to play and sing? I couldn’t remember the notes to the first song, let alone the others that followed. My stomach hurt and my confidence plummeted. All I could think was, “You’re going to screw this up!”

To my relief, we had a successful Grand Ole Opry performance. Most of what we worry about never happens or is beyond our control.

Simply put, worry hampers creativity, induces anxiety, and destroys peace.

I have consistently found my grandfather’s words to be true: if you are prepared, good things will happen.

Own Your Freedom

These five actions above not only reflect personal empowerment but also embody the harmony I speak of in my book, All the Right Reasons. Freedom isn’t granted; it’s created. It’s not something to wait for; it’s something to own.

Global celebrations of freedom may vary, but the essence is the same. Freedom inspires joy, cultivates confidence, and transforms lives. Begin today and champion your own independence.

I shared a version of this article in a news release on July 2, 2025. All the Right Reasons provides more inspiring examples of amplifying self-care. All proceeds go to feeding hungry children, and each book purchase provides 40 meals. 

USANA Health Sciences, a global leader in health and wellness products, has long recognized the importance of social wellness in building a successful business. From its founding in 1992, USANA has focused on clear and concise communication to build trust with its customers and distributors in 25 countries. For more information about USANA Health Sciences and its dedication to promoting health, wellness, and entrepreneurial success, visit USANA.com. 

The Great Outdoors: Get Outside to Enrich Your Life

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Nature holds the power to transform lives. In June, which happens to be National Outdoors Month, I encourage individuals and families to immerse themselves in the beauty and benefits of nature.

Growing up in Montana, nature wasn’t just part of my surroundings; it shaped who I am. Lake Blaine was my playground and my sanctuary. It taught me valuable lessons about living in harmony and the importance of balancing physical, mental, and emotional well-being. These lessons are as vital today as they were then, and National Outdoors Month is the perfect opportunity to rediscover them.

5 Key Benefits of the Great Outdoors

Here are five key ways the outdoors can enrich our lives, as I describe in my book All the Right Reasons.

1. Physical Health Improvements

Spending time outdoors encourages movement, whether it’s a hike, a swim, or a simple stroll through a park. These activities not only boost physical fitness but also enhance cardiovascular health and increase energy levels.

2. Mental Well-Being Enhancement

Numerous studies have shown that connecting with nature can alleviate anxiety and improve mood. Nature is a healer. It restores balance and offers clarity in times of uncertainty.

3. Stress Reduction

Time in green spaces has been proven to lower cortisol levels, helping us manage the stress of fast-paced lives. For me, Lake Blaine provided a peaceful escape, a theme I expand on in my book as essential for thriving in a demanding world.

4. Creativity Boosts

The outdoors sparks imagination and innovation. Some of my best ideas come when I’m outside. Lake Blaine has always been a place of peace and tranquility to help me think through life and be inspired. Nature strips away distractions and fosters a deeper connection with creativity.

5. Social Bonding Opportunities

Whether it’s gathering with friends around a campfire or heading out on an outdoor adventure with colleagues, nature provides a perfect setting to strengthen relationships and build meaningful connections.

A Meaningful Reminder

Through my leadership at USANA, I continue to advocate for holistic wellness, which integrates physical health, mental clarity, and emotional balance. I view National Outdoors Month as a meaningful reminder to step away from digital screens and reengage with the natural world.

I encourage everyone to take this opportunity. Get outside. Find a trail, breathe in fresh air, watch a sunset, or simply sit under a tree and reflect. The outdoors has so much to offer, and its benefits ripple far beyond the time you spend there.

I shared a version of this article in a news release on June 2, 2025, in celebration of National Outdoors Month. All the Right Reasons provides more inspiring examples of achieving success. All proceeds go to feeding hungry children, and each book purchase provides 40 meals. 

USANA Health Sciences, a global leader in health and wellness products, has long recognized the importance of social wellness in building a successful business. From its founding in 1992, USANA has focused on clear and concise communication to build trust with its customers and distributors in 25 countries. For more information about USANA Health Sciences and its dedication to promoting health, wellness, and entrepreneurial success, visit USANA.com. 

Success Strategies: 4 Tips to Reach Peak Potential

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True success isn’t just about achieving your goals. It’s about living a life of purpose, harmony, and fulfillment. In working with successful leaders, I’ve gained insights that have shaped my leadership path. I’m thrilled to share several strategies to help you thrive.

4 Steps to Realize Greater Success

Here are four key principles from All the Right Reasons and my career that anyone can adopt immediately:

1. A Growth Mindset

A growth mindset is the belief that our abilities, talents, and potential are not fixed but can be developed through effort and learning. When you push through the fear of failure and find a solution, that’s a growth mindset in action.

2. The Power of Collaboration

Our ability to work together toward shared goals sets us apart. Alone, we’ll accomplish a lot less than when we bring our combined strengths together. Collaboration amplifies each other’s talents. Look around you and think, “Who can I learn from, and how can I help others succeed?”

3. Vision

Even when the path is unclear, vision is about knowing where you’re headed. That vision guides your decisions, your energy, and your priorities. USANA Founder Dr. Myron Wentz acted on a bold vision of what USANA could be, and today the company thrives globally on those same values. Never underestimate the power of clearly defining what success looks like for you. Once you can see it, every step forward will feel purposeful.

4. Resilience is Critical

Resilience keeps us standing when the wind is strong and the odds feel stacked against us. When setbacks could bring everything to a halt, adapt and rise again, stronger every time. Reframe the situation and launch into an even greater comeback.

From Loss Comes Opportunity

One story in All the Right Reasons illustrates the remarkable resilience of my parents, who turned a devastating loss into an opportunity to rebuild stronger.

When I was a kid, my parents took a huge risk buying a lumber mill, mortgaging their house and life savings. When a fire caused by an employee destroyed the mill, they were devastated. Yet, my dad, valuing kindness and forgiveness, never blamed the employee, who continued working there for years.

Instead of dwelling on their loss, my dad and his partner were resilient and rebuilt a bigger, better mill, putting employees back to work. Thanks to my dad’s integrity and strong relationships, bankers, customers, and suppliers supported him during this challenging time.

Today, I strive to combine corporate expertise with wisdom gained from personal experiences to serve as an advisor for others seeking success. Incorporating the above four principles has helped thousands of leaders elevate their strategies.

I shared a version of this article in a news release on May 1, 2025, in celebration of Executive Coaching Day. All the Right Reasons provides more inspiring examples of realizing success. All proceeds go to feeding hungry children, and each book purchase provides 40 meals. 

USANA Health Sciences, a global leader in health and wellness products, has long recognized the importance of social wellness in building a successful business. From its founding in 1992, USANA has focused on clear and concise communication to build trust with its customers and distributors in 25 countries. For more information about USANA Health Sciences and its dedication to promoting health, wellness, and entrepreneurial success, visit USANA.com. 

6 Ways Playing Guitar Boosts Mental Well-Being

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April’s convergence of International Guitar Month and Stress Awareness Month makes a perfect pairing that celebrates the healing power of music for mental well-being.

While music has long been heralded as a universal remedy, the guitar offers far more than just melodies. Studies, stories, and specialists alike agree: playing the guitar is a proven method to reduce stress.

Music has the extraordinary ability to uplift and inspire. As someone who’s played guitar for years, I encourage everyone to immerse themselves in the joy of playing guitar this month. It’s a simple, powerful way to enhance your well-being.

Striking the Right Chord: Playing Guitar Creates Harmony

6 Ways the Guitar Boosts Mental Wellness | Kevin GuestI believe playing guitar nurtures both mind and soul. Here are six ways I’ve found the instrument to boost mental well-being.

  1. Stress Escape: Anyone can lose themselves in music and find calm in the strums.
  2. Boosted Mood: Playing guitar releases dopamine, the happiness chemical.
  3. Mindfulness: Focusing on music reduces anxiety and centers one’s mind.
  4. Social Connection: Sharing music builds powerful, emotional bonds.
  5. Creative Outlet: Songwriting expresses emotions and eases stress.
  6. Better Sleep: Relaxing guitar sessions lead to improved rest.

In All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony, I emphasize how music minimizes stress and strengthens relationships that matter. When I was young, I lived music down to my bones, and harmonies played constantly in my head. I wanted to be a rock star more than anything else.

Today, music speaks to the soul like nothing else can. This love for music, this awe I have for the process, has been with me for as long as I can remember. Music has transformed my life and offered calmness and clarity where there was chaos. When anxiety takes hold, a melody actually soothes my nerves. Whether it’s a soft tune or a lively rhythm with bands I play in, music brings a peace I never thought possible. It’s been my strength, saving me more times than I can count.

I shared a version of this article in a news release on April 1, 2025. All the Right Reasons provides more inspiring examples of the power of music. All proceeds go to feeding hungry children, and each book purchase provides 40 meals. 

USANA Health Sciences, a global leader in health and wellness products, has long recognized the importance of social wellness in building a successful business. From its founding in 1992, USANA has focused on clear and concise communication to build trust with its customers and distributors in 25 countries. For more information about USANA Health Sciences and its dedication to promoting health, wellness, and entrepreneurial success, visit USANA.com. 

3 Proven Steps for Active Listening

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Listening, I believe, is one of the most underrated tools to connect with others. It’s through listening that we truly meet people where they are, and I’ve experienced its life-changing impact firsthand. I encourage exploring and celebrating the transformational power of listening. It can strengthen personal and professional relationships and foster deeper understanding.

In my book, “All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony,” I recall a pivotal moment when I sought advice from motivational speaker Denis Waitley regarding my young son’s behavioral challenges. Feeling a growing frustration as a parent, I feared my response might escalate the situation.

Denis’ advice was simple yet profound: don’t punish by removing something tied to their self-esteem. Trusting this counsel, my wife and I paused, listened intently to our son, and discovered the root of the problem — a need for understanding, not correction. That moment, guided by listening, prevented a major parenting mistake and deepened the parent-son bond in ways we never expected.

Another striking example came when a friend confided in me about a strained relationship with someone in their life. Instead of offering premature solutions, I listened without judgment. By giving my friend the space to share openly, I helped them feel understood and validated. The tension they carried began to dissolve simply because someone cared enough to truly hear them. Sometimes, listening is the most powerful gift you can give.

3 Proven Steps to Improve Active Listening

To inspire others to hone their listening skills, here are three proven steps for active listening:

1. Seek First to Understand

Inspired by Stephen R. Covey’s teachings, this principle encourages focused, empathetic listening. Instead of planning your response, aim to fully grasp the other person’s thoughts and emotions.

2. Listen to Your Inner Voice

Active listening isn’t just external. Assess your own biases, assumptions, and mental distractions. When you’re mindful of your inner dialogue, you can approach listening with greater clarity.

3. Lead with Empathy

Engage not only with your ears but with your heart. By imagining yourself in the other person’s position, you can respond with compassion and create stronger, more authentic connections.

A Relationship-Strengthening Superpower

Listening is not merely a soft skill; it’s a superpower that strengthens relationships and fosters goodwill. This March, I invite everyone to reflect on how intentional listening can amplify personal and professional success. Whether in boardrooms or living rooms, listening has the potential to rebuild trust, diffuse conflict, and nurture growth.

Listening starts with a choice. It’s about showing up for others, being present, and moving beyond surface-level conversations. This month is a vital reminder of how each of us can make our world better, one conversation at a time.

I shared a version of this article in a news release on March 3, 2025. All the Right Reasons provides more inspiring examples of the power of listening. All proceeds go to feeding hungry children, and each book purchase provides 40 meals. 

USANA Health Sciences, a global leader in health and wellness products, has long recognized the importance of social wellness in building a successful business. From its founding in 1992, USANA has focused on clear and concise communication to build trust with its customers and distributors in 25 countries. For more information about USANA Health Sciences and its dedication to promoting health, wellness, and entrepreneurial success, visit USANA.com.