How to retire your Military spouse!

Being an Army spouse has allowed me the luxury of living in many places and making many friends! The downside is after every move, you have to give up a great job and search for another which greatly affects your income. 

If you are like me, your were approached from every "party invite" for jewelry, pots & pans, skincare, etc. That was NOT going to be me...lol! When you have more month at the end of the money, you eat your words or humble pie. 

Although it's not your mama's party plan, there's been much improvement in this profession. Hype doesn't move any one and a room of products are now in online stores. You can watch your baby play in the floor while on Skype with someone in another state or country. Doctors, Lawyers, Nurses, Soldiers, Teachers, etc. have broken free from their jobs and now have more time and financial freedom to continue their path to their dreams.

Honestly, making the decision to become an Independent Business owner in the Direct Selling/Network Marketing Industry was scary and also the greatest decision we could have ever made. Yes, I say we! My Soldier husband was able to work right along beside me so that we would have a Plan B after retirement. He retires July 30, 2014, 93 days to be exact...lol! How grateful we are that we will continue to build our legacy with our family and continue to change others lives to enjoy the same.   

Bowling in the private room with his son!

We realize many do not believe in the validity of this industry because of negative experiences from others as well meaning friends and family thinking you've done some crazy thing. That's okay. We must do better to educate and not become defensive. I was the biggest ignorant skeptic. The saying is true, "you don't know, what you don't know.  I now have become an "ambassador" of sorts for this life-changing profession and happy to see the Army Wife Network feature Amy Robinson of the DSA (Direct Selling Association) very helpful article: How to Succeed in Direct Selling: http://www.armywifenetwork.com/?p=7975

To read my story and learn more about the Direct Selling Industry visit: http://www.directselling411.com/seller_profiles/erikah/

Need help looking for your Plan B? Email us: erika@hilliardgroup.net or patrick@hilliardgroup.net

Here we grow again!

The best thing about starting a blog is getting to share my life and thoughts with you. The worst thing is me getting lazy and just using Facebook...lmbo! Too much is going on to put on Facebook! In less than 24 hours the discussion will began ALL OVER THE WORLD!!! And I am blessed and honored to be apart of it once again. 

The event is Super Soul Sunday present A New Earth with Author Eckhart Tolle. Airing at 11 CST a.m./12 EST a.m. on the OWN Network. If you don't have the channel, go to www.oprah.com or www.facebook.com/owntv. 

I read this book and it truly was if someone just woke me up from a deep slumber. I started to connect the dots and understand what I was feeling and hearing inside my soul. It's still a journey but an amazing one that I get to charter and not let take me where I don't want to go. I dream bigger, laugh and love more. Do I mess up? Heck yes, but the God I served already knew my beginning from my end so I just rely and trust in Him that everything I need is inside and sometimes the "other" comes from the books I read and the people I meet. I am so excited to start a "new" discussion with you. Will you be reading the book? Will you be watching? Tweet along with me. My twitter handle is erikahilliard. 

Need to order the book? Find it at Amazon! http://amzn.to/1gGzIr5

Peace!

How I got my kids to eat healthy.

I remember MANY mornings of arguing and trying to get my kids to get out the door on time for school. Whether it was a hair out of place, someone was in the bathroom and they are taking to long or I don't want to eat that for breakfast. Well, after having two kids graduate high school, I am left with an 11 yr. old, 6th grader. It has been much easier with him. (Sorry girls!)  Maybe because he is a boy or maybe mom just decided to pick her battles. Since I can't decide, I pick both! :)

He loves drinking a healthy shake before school! 

Since Patrick Jr. was 18 months old, we started a journey of health and wellness. 10 years ago I couldn't tell you what that really meant. What I have learned is that moms and dads set the tone and example for the kids. I don't buy junk food and unhealthy food like I use to and there has been a huge change in our health, moods, and grocery bill.

We never would have imagined that our kids would not complain about no cereal and enjoy fixing a shake with fruits and vegetables. It was also rewarding to see my older daughters get on the bus with their shakes instead of pop-tarts. So many moms ask me how did I get them to change. I started with me first. And since I buy the groceries, if I didn't purchase the junk, they won't eat the junk and then it becomes a habit and a lifestyle. And yes, I know many husbands sometime don't want to eat healthy either. Well guess what? He is an adult and responsible for himself. We are responsible to our kids so I just let him eat what he wanted and now he sometimes eats healthier than me...lol!

So remember moms and dads, many times kids do what they see, not what you say. I was raised on, "do as I say not as I do". I know many of you probably have said it...lol! That doesn't work anymore for most kids. Peace

My beauty regimen from the inside out

In January I will be 45. It a great feeling to be told I look 30 any younger. Most people say it's just genetic but if you don't take care of yourself, it will certainly show. This is a great article to help educate on the importance of how to take care of the largest organ! Erika

by CAMILLE FLETCHER

You know how sometimes you think bad things only happen to other people and you are somehow super-human and won’t be affected? I thought that about the sun.

I have always loved being outdoors, I “fake baked” when I was younger, and in 2008, I took up distance running and was outside for hours. Most of this activity happened without much sunscreen on, despite the warnings about how UV damage could make my skin look older. It totally wasn’t going to happen to me!

Uh … well … please consider me a cautionary tale.

I am now the proud owner of some serious sun damage on my face. This has made me keenly interested not only in sunscreen and specialized skin care products like Sensé Serum Intensive, but also in nutritional approaches to protecting my skin and keeping it looking as youthful as possible.

In a previous blog post, I noted that beta-carotene, lycopene, lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamin D are all helpful for protecting your skin. Vitamin C and grape-seed extract make Proflavanol® C100 another great product to help keep your skin healthy and youthful looking in two ways.

Proflavanol C100 Defends Against Damage

Exposure to UV can lead to oxidative stress. Oxidative stress in the skin can lead to visible wrinkles, sagging, and pigmentation. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant and the grape-seed extract in Proflavanol C enhances that antioxidant activity. By helping your skin protect itself from UV exposure, taking Proflavanol C100 and using daily sunscreen could help protect against visible signs of premature aging. Double up on photoprotection by using topical vitamin C, like Proteo-C®, along with the SPF 15 in Sensé Daytime Protective Emulsion. This high-performance moisturizer helps decrease the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging.

Proflavanol C100 Supports Collagen Production

Collagen is the stuff that gives your skin elasticity. And collagen tends to start breaking down as we age (UV exposure along with the pull of gravity when running can actually speed up the facial sagging … sigh). Vitamin C, which must be obtained from the diet, stimulates collagen production. This essential nutrient has been linked to better appearance of aging skin because it helps support skin elasticity and firmness.

Totally not related, but I found one study that showed grape-seed extract even helps with leg swelling after you’ve been sitting at your desk all day!

A Tip for Taking Proflavanol C100 and Other Supplements

The body can only absorb a limited amount of vitamin C at one time. So, if you are taking the Essentials,Procosa, Booster C 600, or Visionex, consider taking Proflavanol C100 at a different time to help keep your vitamin C levels at a consistently higher level throughout the day.

Proflavanol C100 Also Supports Heart Health and Immune Function

Skin health is only one of the many benefits of Proflavanol C100. Watch this short video to learn more.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Learn what USANA is doing to make the world a better place.

The future of personalized health and nutrition is now available with USANA’s True Health Assessment.

All opinions are NOT created equal

In being an Entrepreneur for almost 10 years. I have encountered many people who always want to give  their opinions on being your own boss or doing one of "those" things. In coaching many people, I found that the opinions of well meaning friends, family and loved ones, stopped them from living the life they wanted to live. Instead, they just lived in misery. That's where the phrase, "misery loves company comes from" Why? Fear. We all trust that the people closest to us know what's best for us. Unfortunately, that is not always the case and what I know especially to be true as I parent. One I might think is best, may not be their dream or their passion.

Someone came to me, upset and said their brother suggested that they should stop doing "that business" because "those things don't work". I ask two questions, "what does your brother do?" The reply was, he works at Applebees. My next question was, "has he ever had a successful business?" The reply was, no. Now we were in a room with countless of us who were successful, don't punch time clocks, have changed lives and support ourselves financially. So my last and important question was, "why are you taking his advice?" The reply was, "because he is family." I know right, you see how crazy that sounds? But we do it all the time. (no disrespect to anyone who works at Applebees:)

I have been my own boss and the freedom that comes with it is priceless. BUT it's not for everybody. There is work to be done! The biggest is working on yourself and your mindset. Many Many don't want to do the work just what's easy. Blame the government, blame parents and just make excuses! Excuses are just well, planned lies."Dani Johnson"

I heard from someone who said NEVER take business advice from someone who has NOT or is NOT doing what you are looking to do. That goes for your personal life as well. No one can tell how to have a great marriage and they are on their 6th marriage. No one can tell you not to go into business for yourself and they have never started one and didn't do the work necessary to succeed and quit. You respect them but not their relationship or business advice. I love this quote from Napoleon Hill~Who said it could not be done? And what victories has he/she to their credit to judge others accurately. As my friend, Soomin Kim says, the opinions of others are typically based on personal experience and are highly biased. 

Stop allowing others who are fearful of making their dreams a reality. Connect with others who have what you want, are doing what you want to do and find the freedom that is yours! What does freedom look like to you? Sit down and write out what it is YOU would like to do, where YOU would like to go. Who would YOU like to help? Freedom is yours! Freedom to be, do and have ALL that you were created for!!!

Peace!

What's important in choosing a Company as your homebased business?

USANA: A Company You Can Truly Trust
by Katie Roundy

OK everyone, take out a pencil and a piece of paper. It’s time for a pop quiz. Don’t worry, there’s no punishment for an incorrect answer.

1) USANA has been in business for more than 20 years and continues to grow stronger with each passing day. Why is that?

a)  Because of our high-quality, personalized nutritionals
b)  Because we are a company built on a solid scientific foundation
c)  Because of our incredible business compensation plan
d)  Because we help you love life and live it
e)  All of the above

Answer: All of the above. Yes, from quality products to a compensation plan with more than six ways to earn income, USANA has everything you need to love life and live it — but there’s more to it than all that. As you know, every relationship begins with trust. And USANA is certainly a company you can trust — and we can prove it.

You see, USANA is a voluntary member of the Direct Selling Association, an association dedicated to protecting and promoting ethical business practices within the industry. To ensure that companies follow the highest level of business ethics, the Association requires members to adhere to its Code of Ethics.


2) What is the DSA Code of Ethics? 

Answer: The DSA Code of Ethics is a set of guidelines that ensures each member company follows through on their promises and doesn’t mislead prospective consumers. It protects customers from unfair business practices and is constantly evolving to stay current with the times.

3) How do you know we’re adhering to the Code? 

Answer: In order to become a member of the DSA, each company is examined to make sure they adhere to the Code. To ensure that company continues to stay in compliance, they must appoint a Code Responsibility Officer. It is the CRO’s job to make sure their company’s practices and policies continually meet the criteria laid out by the DSA. While some companies divide the role between many people, at USANA, this position is the primary focus of one man — Dan Whitney, our vice president of ethics and market expansion.

“The job of being a CRO is really easy because the code is in line with our business practice already,” Dan says. “Others have to modify their policies to fit the bill, but we already do it voluntarily.” In fact, he fills the position while also focusing on market growth and expansion.
Not only does USANA meet all of the ethical criteria, but we also go above and beyond to get the word out by linking to the DSA website from our sites and by sharing stories — such as this one — to help you understand the importance of these regulations. Our efforts have not gone unnoticed — for the past three years, we have participated in the DSA’s Code Communication Initiative and have received recognition for our efforts to raise awareness of the Code.

4) Why should this matter to you? 

Answer: As a member of the DSA who follows the Code of Ethics, it shows that USANA is going the extra mile to prove that we are in this business for the long run. While some companies are focused on immediate gain, you know USANA only has one focus: you. “It’s very refreshing in this industry to be a part of a company that is willing to sacrifice immediate profit for the long-term health of the company,” Dan says.

As a member of the USANA family, you can feel confident sharing the products and business plan with your family and friends because you know that we are truly a company you can trust — inside and out.
Surely you can see why we’ve been around for 20 years, and how we plan to stay in business even longer — all while helping you love life and live it to the fullest!

To learn more about the DSA Code of Ethics visit the DSA website or click on the DSA link at the bottom of the page on USANA.com.

Get the Word Out

OK. Time’s up. Pencils down. What did you learn? Now here’s the real test: how will you get the word out about USANA’s adherence to the DSA Code of Ethics? Be sure to share this story with your friends and demonstrate your confidence in USANA.

Happy Boss's Day!

So I woke up this morning to different post on Facebook about today being Boss's Day. I have to say I got a laugh at some of the post. But a few minutes later my mother-in-law called. I can say I am blessed to have a mother-in-law that I love and look forward to our conversations. For those of you who do not know my mother-in-law she is a spunky, energetic 81 year old who will tell you she has never had a boss. She became a hairdresser over 50 years ago! She has always believed no one will ever pay you what you are worth. She went on to tell me how she knew she didn't want a boss telling her she could only make a certain amount of money. When African American women that she knew were making only $15 a week, cleaning and cooking for someone else, she would make more in a day than her friends would in a week. She also believes in the Network Marketing Industry and chose to have her own business years ago and made a huge success of it.

She says that we in the U.S. have it so easy but take education and work for granted and realizes why many come from other countries and are able to take advantage of any and all opportunities to make a success of their lives. With today being Bosses day and I have no boss to thank. I thank my mother-in-law for confirming to me and my family that being your own boss is the best way to go only if you will do the work and then you will reap the rewards of being paid what you are worth. Oh and Happy Boss's day to me:) and any other of you who are THE BOSS!

So you want to work from home?

That's the question I ask individuals who call me with "I hate my boss" (sorry bosses) or "I want to quit my job". When most people learn I "work from home" I get comments like, "you're good, I couldn't sit at home all day" or "that would drive me crazy". I just chuckle because they are saying that but if they knew they could do whatever they wanted, whenever they wanted and with whomever they wanted and still make an income, we wouldn't be having that conversation. Work from home, home-based just means that it is your main place to use your computer, phone, etc. But know with smartphones and iPads your business is wherever you are.

My goal is to bring some understanding to this incredible Industry. Why? Because so many people are struggling and have no idea that your answer may be right under you nose. Yeah, I know your brother or friend is getting on your last nerve about trying his product...lol! I get it. I know you are looking at the Caller ID when they call. Many have tainted it and left a bad taste in so many people's mouth. As I look back I see where we said things that we didn't think before we said them. Not because we were trying to "scam" someone but because we were so excited and wanted EVERYONE to feel the hope we felt after living in hopeless situations. Now is this profession for everyone? No! It is only for those who want more than a paycheck, more than living a mediocre life and certainly more than what our parents had. It's for people who want to make other people's lives better and don't mind someone else succeeding ahead of them. Oh, and it is for people who don't have a problem with being compensated for it and make no apologizes for it;) If you are that person telling your friend or family member..."but you are making money from it". Well, go to your boss and tell them you want to donate your check and continue working...lol! Aint' gonna happen!

This profession is Network Marketing, Direct Sales, MLM whatever it is that you call it.  We have Doctors, Lawyers, Pastors, Nurses, Military men and women, Professional Athletes, etc. who have made the decision to join. You may be thinking, "why would they do such a thing?" Well, one of the reasons is their time is not their own. It is dictated by someone else. We may have had the income but no time to spend it with family or had the title but no recognition, no pat on the back and then given a pink slip. Another reason are the great tax advantages of running a home-based business. When we tell people all the fun things we get to write off, they're shocked.

So how do you find the right business for you. Ask yourself some questions. What are you passionate about? Health, Fitness, Cooking, or Candles? A few questions I ask are. 1. Are you teachable? 2. Can you get passionate about Health and share it with others? 3. Do you a desire to see others succeed. Do research and go ask someone who is doing it. Would I ever have thought I would be doing what I am doing NEVER. LOL! But through researching, trusting God, we found the products and a company that we could stand behind and who stand behind us for the past 8 1/2 years. Thank you God! A good book to get is The Business of the 21 Century by Robert Kiyosaki & John Fleming. Mind-blowing!

Many of you are drowning in debt, drowning in relationships, drowning in jobs and careers that you hate. This industry has changed lives, has brought hope back into the lives where there was no hope. Prayer is a great weapon and God loves the person who puts the work in after that prayer. So if you are praying for a solution to your health, your financial situation or a job. Go talk to that friend, brother or neighbor and ask them what are they doing? How were they able to walk away from that job, improve their health or pay off that car? Their answer might surprise you. Until next Friday, be you, be happy and be free!

Erika

The Women of USANA: Inspiring Stories of Success

written by Patrick Kibbie
Did you know that women make up 82 percent of the network marketing industry? Are you surprised?
If you look at the way the business model is set up, you shouldn’t be. Women are uniquely suited to network marketing and bring with them natural skills that give them a distinct advantage:

Juggling Life

“If you want something done, ask a busy woman,” said successful direct seller Susanne Cunningham. Women are known for their ability to multi-task, often running a household, earning an income, caring for family, and much, much more. And to build a successful home-based business, you must be adept at focusing on more than one task at a time.

Expert Opinion

Personal recommendations sell products, and women are experts in sharing their opinions — whether about a restaurant, boutique, or the new gym they joined. And when buying new products, women love to find out all the information they can, especially what other women think.

“I started using the products and was so happy with the results that I was talking to nearly everyone I met about USANA,” said Justina Rudez.

Enthusiastic to Learn

We’ve all heard the story of the lost couple; the husband is stubborn while the wife is the one willing to ask for directions. That is because women have a willingness to learn and are excited about learning new things to increase their knowledge and expertise.

“USANA is a wonderful opportunity because of the personal development that is involved,” said Erika Hilliard, whose home-based business has allowed her to connect with people all over the world. “Once you obtain a different view of yourself and your future, you realize you can make great decisions and can also take pride in watching your business grow.”

The Solution of Balance

Who wouldn’t want the ability to work from home — part-time or full — with the allure of flexible hours?
“I’ve found it inspiring to watch so many stay-at-home moms grow as people and as professionals,” said Sandra Moody. “These businesswomen have achieved improved health and gained financial freedom, and they also enjoy great work schedules that allow them to travel and have wonderful experiences with their families.”

If you want to learn more about some of USANA’s most dynamic women by receiving a *free copy, email me at erika@hilliardgroup.net *Non-USANA people only please;)

Today we celebrate!!!!

July 13, 2003 would be the start of so many lives changing! Who knew getting involved in one of "those things" lol would affect our lives and those we came in contact with, in so many ways. Since that day, we have been able to pay off debt, have a better quality of life and watch our dreams become a reality. We  have a business that is willable to our children, we have better health and residual income. We have trusted our health to the best and have seen tremendous results in our lives and the lives of family and friends around the world.

Obtaining knowledge of this Industry and having the faith and confidence to succeed is very important. Not listening to the naysayers and "dream stealers" is equally key to achieving your dreams and goals. We are so grateful to be able to share this with so many who will receive it! It certainly isn't for everyone.

There are many great Companies out there! We are thankful to be a part of one with Vision and Purpose not just based on hype. Over the pass few weeks, USANA has received Accolades, Awards and Recognition and it just keeps getting better and better.

For more info Click Here

Our future is so bright we gotta wear shades...I know, that's a song...lol! Thank you God,  Dr. Wentz, USANA Corporate for taking such good care of us and blessing us with an opportunity of a lifetime! 

To be continued....

USANA RESET: Cody Blair 140 Pounds Later

Every year my family and friends "reset" our bodies after eating a "ridunculous" amount of food for Thanksgiving and Christmas! It's always great news to hear someone else getting great results. Congrats Cody!

Cody Blair still gets called names.

Whether those names are better is debatable, but the names certainly are different. They come from a different place, for a different reason.

“Now they call me anorexic,” the 22-year-old from Las Cruces, New Mexico said.

And those people are joking, of course. It wasn’t an eating disorder that transformed the Cody Blair of 2008 into the Cody Blair of today — healthy, fit, and missing 140 pounds.* It was a change in lifestyle and an introduction to USANA’s Nutrimeal™ shakes — and later, the rest of the RESET program—that has people commenting on his new, slimmer, healthier physique.

The names Cody used to be called were very different. He remembered going to Pennsylvania for college and hearing insults about his weight hurled at him on a consistent basis. These insults cut deep, diving Cody into depression. For a month, he stopped eating regularly. 

Then his mom introduced him to USANA’s shakes. The selling point for Cody was the way the shakes made him feel fuller for longer. He started having a shake at noon and another before 7 p.m. This allowed him to start losing some weight. Pretty soon he was giving up junk food and parking further away from his destination so he could get exercise walking to and from his car. Other people started noticing the results.

“I didn’t know it until I got home from Pennsylvania, but my clothes didn’t fit,” Cody said. “My mom said, ‘Your pants are too loose.’”

The weight loss has continued for Cody. Just this summer he won a RESET contest for those in his mom’s USANA organization. His final total after those two months: 43 pounds. For this impressive accomplishment, he won $500 — most of which has gone toward buying new clothes that actually fit.

“It’s an awesome feeling, except it’s expensive,” he said.

Money and a new wardrobe aren’t the only reward Cody’s weight loss has earned him.

“To be able to be told by people that you are their inspiration, to help somebody is a bigger benefit,” he said. “I know that when I got my smile and pride back, it made the world seem so brand new, one day I hope to help as many people as I can, so that they can feel what I feel.”

During this year’s International Convention, Cody spent a lot his time in the store staring at the wall of the USANA Foods display — the wall adorned with his picture. He started getting recognized.

“People were happy to see a real person,” he said. “Someone that’s not on TV, that’s not Photo-shopped or anything.” To help other people realize that weight loss is possible for normal people, Cody said he’s thinking about starting a blog.

For now, he is planning on starting a workout regimen so he can start building some more muscle.

“I want them to call me muscle head,” Cody said. It seems like that’s a name he could live with.

by David Baker

For more information about USANA products, please visit http://www.yourhealth2b.usana.com/.

*Results not typical. The typical weight loss is 4.5 pounds in 5 days.

Mind your own business!!!!!

I have had so many AHA moments this past weekend that I feel like I am about to explode. I am so grateful for this blog and the ability to share with whomever desires how to live the life that they only dreamed of. Am I all the way there? No! I am on my way and that's all that matters. Now I am able to help others do the same.

This past weekend we had the opportunity to speak to a group of people who have their own Network Marketing Business. They were from all walks of life, ages, race, religion, etc. But with one common goal. To become better at sharing with others, build a network and live amazing lives. 

So what is Network Marketing? It's where companies pay individuals who love their products or services and share with others using word-of-mouth instead of the company spending millions of dollars to agencies for advertising, transportation, marketing and distribution. The individual receives a portion of the profits.

This is an Industry that is recognized by Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, Time Magazine, and the Harvard Business School just to name a few. Now that brings me to the title of this blog. I knew you were waiting and wondering why I was so angry. HaHa. Fooled you. I am not angry just grateful. Over 18 million people started a Network Marketing/Direct Sales Business in 2009. But all we heard in the news was 9 million people  lost their jobs. Oh oh I wish they knew what we knew.

In case you don't know by know we have a business that is in the Network Marketing Industry. And are proud to say that. This industry has gotten a bad reputation over the past 50 years. I am sad to say I was one of those who bad mouth it. But when it came into our lives, we knew we had something great because only God heard my prayers (cries) and dropped this business in our laps. 

I am not in the convincing business and I am not in the "selling vitamins" business. Network Marketing isn't about a product or service. It is about building a Network not a nest egg!

I just finished reading a book titled, "The Business of the 21st Century" by Robert Kiyosaki. You may have heard of him and you may not. All I can tell you is over the past 7 years of building this amazingly life changing business, we have been ridiculed, laughed at talked about and continually asked, "Are you still doing that thing?". Some of the comments have been painful and down right ignorant to say the least. BUT understandable. This book has confirmed yet once again. We are in the right place and the right business. It has nothing to do with a "niche" or what "works" for us. It is about having Financial Intelligence. Have you ever seen this image?

Prior to starting our business 7 years ago we lived in fear, anger and frustration as Robert says so truthfully in the book. And we also "thought" in the left side of that image above. It is called the Cashflow Quadrant. But as we educated ourselves (not formal education by the way) we learned that this incredible "vehicle" would take us to places no job could ever take us! So if you are struggling with the decision to step out on faith and to start a business. Do it! But first there are 3 things you must do:

First, you must "unlearn" what you have been taught. We live in an information age not, not an industrial age! Reading books such as, "Who Stole The American Dream" by Burke Hedges, As A Man Thinketh by James Allen, The Slight Edge by Jeff Olson and of course The Business of the 21st Century by Robert Kiyosaki!

  

Secondly, find out what you want. What is your vision. The Bible says, "without a vision, people perish". Having a Network Marketing business grows you, enables you to dream bigger dreams and makes those dreams come true. But it takes time and effort. I have set goals and accomplished them, now I have set new goals and write them down.

And lastly, get around like-minded individuals. It is said that your income tends to be equal to the average of your five closest friends. If you desire to become the CEO of your own company, why would you hang around people who tell you that won't happen, or say things like, "you, become a business owner, yeah right".

Seek friendships that build you up not tear you down. Of course we have people that love us and care for us. Although they mean well, they don't help us. And yes even get away from negative, mean-spirited relatives. I don't care how good Uncle George cooks at the Family Reunion. Everytime you get around him, he laughs at you for being "different" or mocking you for getting involved in one of "those things" And you feel even worse after you leave his presence. You can love them from a distance! lol

We lost many "so-called" friends when we made the decision to start a Network Marketing business. For some people with dreams, they aren't ready to give up those friends and I hate to say that but it is true. I was taught by my mentor, "if people (friends, relatives, etc) aren't living the life you desire, why would you take their advice? Why would you listen to someone say, "those things don't work" and they have never built a successful business a day in their life. But yet those that do listen, stay where they are, complaining and blaming everyone else and not living the life God created them to live. It breaks the heart of God to see any of His children living mediocre lives.

Being in the Network Marketing industry has been an amazing journey and God has given us new friends.

Friends who are headed in the same direction as we are and helping us to be better and helping us to do more than we ever thought we could. Oh yeah, once last thing. This isn't for everyone. So I am not preaching for everyone to start a business. But you know who you are.

So don't be afraid to start a business. Mind your own business!!!!!

Erika

Top secrets for success

by Collette Larsen
Struggling to get motivated? Need more inspiration? Here are some tips on how to succeed against all odds

Going through a difficult divorce, about to lose her home and face bankruptcy, whilst coping with the needs of two of her five children who were struggling with Cystic Fibrosis, one of whom needed a double lung transplant to survive. This was a snap shot of Collette Larson’s desperate situation sixteen years ago.

With sky rocketing medical bills, Collette started her home-based business with the goal of earning enough income to simply pay for the nutritional products her children needed. However, within a few months she realized her business might also provide a way to cover her family's basic needs.

As her vision of where her business could take her expanded, Collette set a goal to dig herself out of debt. As the months and years passed, the possibilities became realities and a life beyond her wildest dreams manifested itself.

Today, Collette, a 57-year-old grandmother of 12 is the top income earner in USANA Health Sciences, Inc., has achieved complete financial freedom and assisted to set up businesses internationally including Australia and New Zealand.

Her home-based business has become an international family enterprise allowing her to expand her philanthropic vision and travel the world.'

So how did a financially frazzled and emotionally battered Collette fight back to become USANA's top income earner? Here are her top-ten secrets to success.

Determine your ultimate why

Declaring your intentions and attaching a value to what you are doing helps you stay focused. Also involving friends and loved ones will assist you to stay on track and remind you of why you have chosen to do what you set out to do.

Build your belief

It is imperative to have a strong belief in what you are doing. Having confidence and belief in the industry, company you are working with and most importantly in yourself will greatly assist you on your path to success.

Set goals

From the realistic to outrageous, setting both short and long term goals will help you identify your success and need for improvement. Goals ensure you are continually striving for success.

Expand your warm market

Networking is imperative in the making of a successful business. By initiating conversations, building new relationships and nurturing old ones you will find that exciting business opportunities will arise.

Invest

Investing in yourself, your business and your future will ensure you continue to grow as a business owner and person. It will also make sure your business is evolving and not being left behind in a world that is constantly changing.

Build leaders

Identify those around you who have leadership qualities. Mentor them and assist in their growth, let them fly! They will develop into a confident leader and integral part of your business.

Get involved locally

Being involved in your community will keep you connected and in touch with the evolving trends and needs of your local consumers who are often the most important people to your business.

Live gratefully; Give generously

Humility and generosity are important aspects of business. Nurturing your relationships and taking the time to show you care are small but essential components to not only a happy workplace, but a balanced life.

Love what you do

Having passion for your work will show in everything you do. It provides you with the drive and confidence to succeed and makes going to work every day an exciting prospect.

Choosing the Right Company

by Pete Zdanis

Evaluating network marketing companies can be a daunting task. However, it is well worth the effort to insure that your time, money and reputation are not wasted on trying to build a business with an inferior company.

We know you will find the following guidelines to be valuable in helping you select a company that you will be proud of and that will provide you with the level of lifetime residual income that you aspire to.

There are four main areas to evaluate. First, you'll want to look at the company. Who are the leadership of the company? The management? What are their credentials? Is there a vision for the future? Do they function with integrity, and can you prove it? Is this the company...are these the people that I want to align myself with?

Second, you'll want to look at the products. Does the company do the research and development of the products? Does the company own their formulas? Does the company do their own manufacturing? Are they in control of quality control procedures? Are the products highly consumable...that people use and reorder on a monthly basis, and become loyal to? Do the products have a positive impact on people's lives?

The third issue is timing and trends...timing in the industry, as well as timing in the company. Is the industry just now emerging as a growth industry? Does the company have a history of solid growth...not one that is declining, or flattened out in terms of growth?

And, the 4th is the compensation plan. How do you make money? And, is it fair for the individual who is working on a part-time basis...someone who wants to make an extra few hundred dollars per month, and beyond that... will it pay an individual $10,000, $20,000, or more per month...for the people who really want to go out and create wealth and financial freedom?

Don't short-cut this process! And, trust your answers! Because we know that if any one of these areas is lacking, your chance for success is cut in half. Which means you'll have to work twice as hard to be successful. If two of these areas are lacking, you'll have no chance.

The time to do your homework is before you make the decision to partner with a specific company...not by jumping from one company to another.