USANA Blog - Larsen Global Alliance

Looking for 1,000 Heroes

daxjross@gmail.com (Dax) — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 00:06:00 +0000

Dear friends and family,

It is my intention to raise $18,000 for Cystic Fibrosis research in July. My sons and I did something a little different this year for Great Strides - the annual CF fundraiser. Dax, Zak, Ryan and I hiked to Mt. Everest Base Camp in May, reaching a breathtaking elevation of just over 18,000 feet. We climbed in memory of my daughter Lexi who lost her battle with CF in 1995; in honor of my daughter Sharlie who continues to amaze us all with her courage and tenacity; and with hope for Ben and Lauren (my two grandchildren with CF) and the other 70,000 children and young adults worldwide who, because they inherited CF, fight each day to breathe.

A lot of people doing a little bit can change the world. I am humbly asking you to support my efforts. I intend to find 1,000 people willing to make a tax-deductible donation of $18.00 (one dollar for each foot of elevation) to this worthy cause. Will you be one of my 1,000 heroes? The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is consistently listed in the top charities in the nation. Your contribution goes where it's needed - to help CF stand for Cure Found.

Here is the link: http://www.cff.org/Great_Strides/ColletteLarsen

You will see a yellow "Click To Donate" button at the top of the page and another yellow button that will allow you to forward the page to others who might want to support our efforts.

Thank you - and please, in order for me to reach my goal I need you to become a CF ambassador. Please forward this message on to your address lists.

In Gratitude,

Collette Larsen

A few facts about Cystic Fibrosis:

Cystic fibrosis is an inherited chronic disease that affects the lungs and digestive system of about 30,000 children and adults in the United States (70,000 worldwide). A defective gene and its protein product cause the body to produce unusually thick, sticky mucus that clogs the lungs and leads to life-threatening lung infections; and obstructs the pancreas and stops natural enzymes from helping the body break down and absorb food.

In the 1950s, few children with cystic fibrosis lived to attend elementary school. Today, advances in research and medical treatments have further enhanced and extended life for children and adults with CF. Many people with the disease can now expect to live into their 30s, 40s and beyond.

Lessons Learned On My Journey to Mt. Everest Base Camp – Part 2 of 6

daxjross@gmail.com (Dax) — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 21:22:00 +0000

Focus on the Formula

You probably already know the formula. It’s certainly not a secret. I’ve read various versions, most recently in the book The Lotus Code by Mark Yarnell and Valerie Bates. I’ve put my own spin on it because I like to choose words that have personal meaning and I thrive on five…one word for each finger. Simple, I know.

Thoughts + Words + Actions + Habits = Results

This is the story of how “The Formula” got me to Mt. Everest Base Camp. More importantly, this same formula will help you attain your heart’s desires.

It starts with a thought…and it’s just fine if that thought is wildly improbable. After all, a dream that’s too big is just the right size, right? At the International Convention last summer, we were encouraged (even if we were veterans in USANA) to go through the newly introduced e-Apprentice. I don’t expect others in our organization to do what I’m not willing to do myself so upon returning home I signed on and earnestly began doing the assignments. I nearly skipped the Dream Builder Wheel in the Business Lab because frankly, my life is wonderful and I felt satisfied. Or maybe that was complacency I was feeling. At any rate, I thought “why not?” and started typing in wildly improbable goals for myself including seeing the tallest mountain on the planet. Of course, I figured that someday I’d FLY to Nepal to see Mt. Everest. It hadn’t occurred to me that I’d actually trek to that notable landmark. Note: the Universe listens to thoughts and in some incomprehensible way, starts things in motion.

Four months after having that thought I received an e-mail from one of my heroes, Werner Berger – the oldest North American to ever summit Mt. Everest. He told me about his intention to take a number of USANA Associates to Base Camp in May of 2010 and wondered if I’d forward a message to my extensive database to assess any interest. Hmmm…I remembered that dream wheel. But…(isn’t there usually a “but?”) there was no way I could attempt such a thing. To make certain, I actually put the thought into words and ran it by my husband and yes, he pretty much agreed…no way. Can I just interject here that oftentimes it’s helpful to your cause if a few people whose judgment you respect, tell you what you’ve just verbalized is impossible. It happened when I started building my USANA business and it has happened since. For some reason, having someone tell me I can’t do something always gives me just the nudge I need.

On New Year’s Day I sent an invitation to my sons to join me on the trek. Three of them said, “Yes!” There are several important lessons in my purpose for extending the invitation and in their response. Stay tuned for a future installment.

Well, I not only forwarded Werner’s original e-mail, I wrote back to him and told him I’d like to be the first on his list. I shared my concerns about my fitness level, my fears, etc. I received a lovely message in return and I’ll share a bit here:

“I’m not surprised you’d be intrigued, dear Collette. You will absolutely adore the people and the amazing landscape. I can understand your fears, especially because you have never trekked before.

There are two keys to success. One, of course, is fitness. Four months of training can get almost anyone in shape. The second is speed. Going too fast at altitude is ill-advised and can totally destroy the experience. We will take time to soak in the majesty, the spirit and uniqueness of one of the most beautiful and breathtaking places on earth.”

Werner Berger

Dax, Werner, Me, Zachary, and Ryan

That vote of confidence from Werner and the picture he painted in my mind set me in gear. I knew I had to put action behind my words. I went to work. I began my training on New Year’s Day and hiked, climbed, went to the gym or worked out with my personal trainer five days a week for the next four months. Before long I realized the first thought in my head when I awoke each morning was centered on what I was going to do that very day to improve my fitness level. My actions had become habits and I could literally feel my body transforming itself.

Training hike on Mt. San Jacinto

Training with Ric

On May 12, 2010 I stood (after walking every step of the way) at Mt. Everest Base Camp with my three sons and a dedicated group of USANA distributors and friends. My wildly improbable thought that became those tentative words that turned into massive, focused action which in time became a habit had ultimately produced results. That moment – exhausted, freezing, tears streaming, bursting with love, joy and gratitude – will dwell in my heart forever. I don’t know when I’ve ever felt more proud – or more humble.

Focus on the Formula. I promise…it works!

Collette

P.S. If you would like a day-to-day account of what it was like on the trail, you can check out my son's blog at dirtyrunning.blogspot.com. You can also see more about our group trek on USANA's blog.

Our group preparing for the climb to Namche

The yaks always have "right of way"

Lessons Learned On the Way to Mt. Everest Base Camp, Part 1 of 6

daxjross@gmail.com (Dax) — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 21:00:00 +0000

First off, let me explain WHY.

I gave birth to five children, two of whom struggled from infancy to do what I take for granted…breathe. Lexi, my youngest daughter, lost her battle with Cystic Fibrosis after rejecting the lungs that had been transplanted into her fragile body when she was just 14-years-old. During that brief window of time - between receiving new lungs and those transplanted lungs being rejected by her body - Lexi would get this amazed look on her face and try to explain how different it felt…being able to take a deep breath. I remember one day as she was sipping water through a straw. “Mom,” she explained, “this is what it’s like! If you try breathing through a straw…it’s just what it feels like to breathe when you have CF.”

Lexi

Sharlie, who is now thirty-one years old, married, and a mother herself, continues to fight her battle every single day. I watch in awe as she paces herself, carefully monitoring her breathing. I watch helplessly as she stops halfway up the stairs to catch her breath and as she struggles to keep up with Harrison, their very active three-year-old son. I marvel at her propensity for joy in spite of her diminished breathing capacity.

Sharlie doing a breathing treatment at Sanoviv

Sharlie and Ryan holding their son, Harrison

Ben who is nine-years-old and his little sister, six-year-old Lauren, were also born with this genetic disease. They are two of my precious grandchildren and so far, thanks to the advancements in treating CF and the loving, constant care of their parents, they’re doing relatively well yet still spend a considerable amount of time each day doing “breathing treatments” to help them keep their lungs clear and free from infection.

I live in Elfin Forest, a magical rural community in San Diego, California that sits at sea level. My oxygen saturation is about 99%. For me, breathing is effortless. I never give it a second thought…or at least I didn’t until recently. At 17,590 feet, Mt. Everest Base Camp is a rugged other-worldly landscape at the base of the top of the world. And with only about half as much oxygen at Base Camp as there is when I’m home in San Diego, I felt certain this experience would help me understand what it feels like to struggle for every breath. My assumption was correct.

So, that is why a 57-year-old grandmother who started out on January 1st at a fitness level of about 2 (on a scale of 1 being not fit at all and 10 being extremely fit) decided to stretch way out of her comfort zone to join Werner Berger and 38 other brave souls (almost all are USANA distributors) on a three week adventure…a trek through the Khumbu Region of the Himalayas with a goal to reach Mt. Everest Base Camp.

Stay tuned for five additional installments explaining five of the most pertinent lessons I learned from this experience. And since pictures tell the story best…I’ll share lots.

On a Sherpa trail with our group

The Nepali flag

On a Sherpa trail with Ama Dablam in the background

Carved prayer stone...these were everywhere

A short video I took in the beautiful Monastery village of Tengboche, Nepal

Namaste,

Collette

P.S. If you would like a day-to-day account of what it was like on the trail, you can check out my son's blog at dirtyrunning.blogspot.com. You can also see more about our group trek on USANA's blog.

Take a Hike

daxjross@gmail.com (Dax) — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 22:17:00 +0000

A question…as you just read the title of this blog; did you sense a negative connotation? I want a word or two with the person who first uttered these three words as an insult! In fact, as I’ve learned since my first honest to goodness hike as an adult on January 1st of this year, “take a hike” is a phrase fraught with meaning – adventure, exhilaration, even spirituality. “Take a hike” has become music to my ears.

Is it possible to reinvent yourself at 57 years of age…or at any age? Yes! Yes, it is. Our company attracts heroes - seemingly normal, average people who reach deep into their soul’s divine center and accomplish the amazing. These individuals lift us all.

Under a big tent at Snowbird in 1995, I was asked to take a few moments during the third annual USANA Convention and talk about the success I’d experienced since I’d launched my business a little over a year earlier. Brand new to the public speaking arena (and with knees shaking uncontrollably) I shared one of my favorite poems by Ella Wheeler Wilcox entitled “Lifters and Leaners.” In a nutshell, Ms. Wheeler promotes the idea that all the world’s masses can be divided into just two classes…you got it, lifters and leaners. I remember hearing this poem over twenty years ago and thinking, this woman has pretty much figured out the secret to a fulfilling life. If we concentrate our time, talent and energy lifting others, through some irrefutable energy, our own lives are elevated. Ironically, one of my heroes and a fellow hiking/climbing/trekking enthusiast, Steve Netherby, recently sent me a quote he knew I’d love and when I realized it was written by this same insightful poet - Ella Wheeler Wilcox, I wasn’t surprised.

"Change is the watchword of progression.
When we tire of well-worn ways, we seek for new.
This restless craving in the souls of men
Spurs them to climb, and seek the mountain view."

Apparently, this restless craving Ms. Wilcox refers to was lying dormant in my soul when I received an e-mail message over the holidays from another of my personal heroes, Werner Berger. I met Werner through USANA nearly fifteen years ago and I’ve watched in star-struck awe as Werner has summitted peak after daunting peak, constantly striving for higher ground, becoming in 2007, the oldest North American and the fourth oldest person in the world to summit Mt. Everest at 29,035 feet - literally standing on top of the world.

Now, when Werner Berger sends you a personal e-mail outlining his upcoming intention to lead thirty or so USANA distributors on a spiritual, physical and emotional adventure of a lifetime - a 20-day trek to the a landscape he knows and loves; the Base Camp of Mt. Everest…well, to make a long story a little shorter…I gave birth to that restless craving and said, YES! Then, just to cover my bases and insure I had strong men to carry me off the mountain should that need arise, I invited my sons Dax, Zak and Ryan (Sharlie’s husband) to join me. And with that, our journey began.

I have become a hiking enthusiast. For some reason built into my genetic code, when I decide to do something that at first glance seems impossible for me (especially if I’m told I can’t possibly do it), I pull out all the stops and become somewhat irrational in my determination and commitment.

REI is my new favorite shopping destination. I spend hours on websites having to do with hiking, climbing and the gear that goes along with this passion. I know a lot about liner socks, mole skin, hydration and sweat-proof sunscreen. I’ve picked up some dangerous addictions: www.steepandcheap.com being a prime example. I signed on as a member of www.trails.com and I scour our area for challenging new trails learning in the process that Southern California is a hiker’s paradise.

Ric and I can literally walk out our front door and start climbing – a fact we didn’t realize when we purchased our ranch house on three acres a little over a year ago. I placed a couple beautiful wicker rockers and a matching swing on our wide front porch and envisioned us rocking away, sipping our chamomile tea, content to slow down the pace a bit and simply enjoy this life we’ve built for ourselves.

HELLO!

As it turns out, I’m chugging Rev3 and hiking for five or six hours several days a week with my husband and sons cheering me on and usually waiting at the top of the next incline for me. They’re all far more fit than I am, but they are my most ardent supporters and I want more than anything to measure up to their expectations. To accomplish that end I’m demanding more of myself than I ever have. Pat Barry, another USANA associate who has come into my life and become a cherished friend and mentor agreed to be my personal trainer. When I’m not hiking the hills or training with Pat, I’m at our local gym on the stairmaster or elliptical machine. I thought by now I’d be thin but alas, that hasn’t happened. However, I learned during my quick trip to Sanoviv two weeks ago, my body fat percentage has dropped by about 12% and has been replaced by lean muscle. Yes, Dr. Strand…I know that’s a good thing…but I’d still like to get thin. Perhaps a diet of Yak stew (really, that’s what Werner says we’ll be eating!) might do the trick.

So, here are a few of the hundreds of pictures we’ve taken over the past four months. Isn’t the scenery breathtaking? And I’m pretty sure it’s only going to get better from here on out. We leave for Kathmandu on the first of May and if all goes well, I’ll be in Hong Kong at our International Celebration to give a full report of what it felt like to stand in the shadow of the tallest mountain on earth.

Zak, me, and Ryan

Me and Ric

Lake Hodges

Chicks dig scars

Ryan, me, and Zak testing our poles

Dax soaking his legs after the Catalina Marathon

Ryan, me, and Zak at Lake Hodges

Ryan

Ric and me

Hiking in the snow at Tahquitz Peak with Zak and Ryan

Tahquitz Peak - before

Tahquitz Peak - after

When writing blogs, I feel a responsibility to provide tips and ideas for my USANA family, some little nugget that might help you in building your own USANA business. So, here is my tip for this month:
If the mountain were smooth, we couldn’t climb it.

God Speed –

Collette

You Deserve This!

daxjross@gmail.com (Dax) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 23:22:00 +0000

Sanoviv is a special sanctuary - an integral part of the vision of Dr. Wentz. I consider it my personal heaven on earth. It's where I go when I need to refresh and renew and each time I'm there, I pick one evening to be floating on my back in the infinity pool as the stars come out. I've made lots of wishes as I've star-gazed and one of them came true today. I've wished more of the USANA family could experience the serenity and healing that my family and I have experienced at Sanoviv. It's now your turn.. you deserve this...and you're hearing it here first.

My dear friend Tris Conley sent a message to me today outlining a new program called the "Healthy Weekend Getaway" designed to give everyone the opportunity to enjoy Sanoviv. He wanted my opinion...and I was so excited about it all I asked if I could be the first to promote it. Here are the details:

The program will consist of:

3 Nights Room and Board (arrival Thursday, departure Sunday)

All Meals and juices

Hospital Tour

Orientation

Spa Orientation

1 Spa therapy per person (massage)

1 Salon therapy per person (manicure, pedicure, facial)

Lectures (Healthy Living, Nutrition and Detox, Healthy Cooking)

Yoga

Meditation (every day and sound meditation on Saturday)

Energy Medicine

Fitness

Access to Gym, Pools and Sauna

Shuttle from San Diego airport or Amtrak Station

Call for details 1-800-SANOVIV (726-6848)

***Additional Spa services can be requested a la carte***

Also in an effort to educate and advise our guests into a healthier path we will offer 3 diagnostic tests :

HRV (Heart rate variability)

Dark Field (live blood analysis)

BIA (Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis)

COST:
$2,500 per couple
$1,500 solo rate

***The program is intended for couples, families, friends. Single room with companion suite, double occupancy***

Now, an honest confession. I've never been able to get my own husband to Sanoviv! He's always felt he didn't have the time, he wouldn't be able to stay in one place that long, yoga's not his thing, he can't live without tortilla chips and guacamole...blah, blah, blah. But now, with this couple's getaway, it's a done deal! Even my very restless husband agrees these four days and three nights are just what the doctor ordered. We hope to see you there. Call ASAP (1-800-SANOVIV) to reserve your weekend.

USANA's Dan Macuga offers a glimpse inside Sanoviv

Here are a few other posts about Sanoviv:

Do You Still Believe In Magic?

daxjross@gmail.com (Dax) — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 23:05:00 +0000

One of the unique benefits of being an independent distributor with USANA is the opportunity to travel to Conventions and Regional Celebrations to not only celebrate all that USANA is but also to experience the joy, traditions and colorful atmosphere of cities around the world.

My husband Ric and I spent last week in Morelia. Built in the 16th century, Morelia is an enchanting city – a World Heritage Site – deep in the heart of Mexico. The city is surrounded by hills and a dormant volcano – and I can personally verify there is a very steep trail that goes to the top where you’ll literally stumble across some very interesting homemade shrines. Morelia has more than 200 historic architectural treasures, all fashioned from the region’s pink stone. Ric and I spent one entire day walking through the city, visiting cathedrals, fountains, the aqueduct, and feasting on regional cuisine. We have mouth-watering Mexican food here in San Diego…but I’ve never tasted better carne asada than what I had in Morelia.

Although my primary purpose for visiting Morelia was to participate in the USANA Celebration with the warm, hospitable distributors from Mexico; from the moment USANA announced this Celebration those same distributors had been writing me, urging me to visit one of the monarch butterfly sanctuaries in the area. As has happened so many times over the past sixteen years (since USANA opened my eyes to all the possibilities out there) I said, “Why not?”

As it turned out, the morning we were set to go, Ric didn’t feel well and when he learned we would be driving about two-and-a-half hours up winding, twisty roads to get where we needed to be, he opted out. Yes, I probably should have stayed behind to dote on him…but I didn’t.

Instead, I hired a nice young man with a decent car to be my guide for the day and we headed out for the Oyamel Forests at about 10,000 feet to see what I can’t possibly describe – but fortunately, I took pictures – although even pictures don’t do the experience justice which you will understand if you’ve ever tried to photograph swirling butterflies in a forest against a brilliant sunny sky.

A little background about Monarchs that I learned from my guide, Michael…who spoke broken English so I’m not sure it’s completely accurate:

Every autumn approximately 120 to 150 million (but who’s counting?) monarch butterflies migrate from the freezing temperatures in Canada and the Northern U.S. to the mountains east of Morelia. This annual migration is about 2,500 miles and the monarchs migrate in order to reproduce. The males die after mating, the females return to the U.S. and Canada to lay their eggs and then die as well. None of them ever live long enough to make a repeat trip. So, let me ask you…how do they possibly know where to go? I had a little trouble getting my head around this, but I guess it’s just one of those wonderful mysteries of nature. For me, simply more evidence that there is a Grand Design to this amazing mortal experience.

The road ends at a tiny settlement (where you must pay two pesos for one teensy sheet of toilet tissue that accompanies additional privileges) about an hour hike from where the butterflies were promised to be. I was slightly car sick and just a titch concerned because to that point I’d only seen two or three butterflies - pretty much what I can see in my garden at home. Michael assured me I would see thousands of them bunched together in the tops of the fir trees and suggested I take one of the horses the locals were willing to rent for an additional pittance in order to make it to the summit.

“No way, Jose!” You see, I’ve been in training since January 1 and I hike almost every single day. I’m trekking to the base camp of Mt. Everest with Werner Berger, my sons and a bunch of other extremely fit USANA distributors in May and this was a perfect opportunity to test out my newfound strength at altitude. I came prepared with hiking boots, thick wool socks, poles, gloves, my USANA visor, my Camelbak, etc. and after about fifteen minutes I cried “Uncle!” Wow, air is REALLY thin at 10,000 feet! I’d like to say the beauty of the butterflies took my breath away, but I’m afraid I didn’t have much breath to offer at that point. Fortunately, the young boy with the horse (with a wooden saddle – ouch!) had followed me just in case. I have a feeling I’m not the first over-confident city slicker in that neck of the woods.

As I neared the summit the path narrowed and I had to dismount to walk the remainder of the way. I should mention that my guide Michael, along with our local guide who only accompanied us because that is the only way a person living in that area who doesn’t own a horse can make any money - an elderly woman about half my height wearing two sweaters a long skirt and some loafers walked the entire way and were not far behind me and my sturdy mount. Very humbling.

Michael and Emma

At first I thought brightly colored leaves were fluttering from the trees. Butterflies everywhere! They clung to the branches of the fir trees by the thousands. And then, as we walked along this narrow trail all of a sudden there were four Mexican men leaning against a rock next to a piece of lumber thrown across our path. Michael explained this was as far as we could go. Now, don’t get me wrong – it was spectacular. Butterflies were alighting on me. But just down the path a couple hundred yards they were swirling, dancing, catching the dappled light filtering through the trees. I needed to be down there right in the midst of the magic. Remembering how just the day before Paige Hunter told me about talking her way out of a speeding ticket on her way to the Celebration, I decided to try something I’ve never done before…a bribe. I pulled Michael aside and asked him to speak to the four imposing men for me. How much would it take in order for me to wander down that slippery slope? Michael negotiated for a few minutes and then came over and whispered in my ear, “fifty pesos.” FIFTY PESOS! You’re kidding me! Oh, wait a minute. Let’s see…I think that’s about four bucks. Okay, if that’s what it’s going to take, I guess I’ll just have to ante up!

This is where the magic kicks in and yes, like the song from my high school days forty years ago…I still believe in magic. I’ll never in my life forget the half hour I spent with the butterflies. It was mesmerizing. I felt transformed by the fragile beauty that surrounded me; like a young girl in an enchanted forest who could be transported away at any moment by the inconceivability of what I was witnessing - crisp, clear, thin air; brilliant blue skies; marshmallow puffs of clouds; towering fir trees and dazzling monarch butterflies by the thousands flying in circles around me. And it was silent…sacred.

Clumps of monarch butterflies clinging to the fir trees

I’d bet fifty pesos that’s what heaven is going to be like – communing with butterflies and then riding a trusty steed to a pink shack of a restaurant to savor carne asada prepared by a sweet Mamita on a wood-burning stove served with grilled cactus and onions and fresh bright blue corn tortillas with homemade salsa. If heaven falls short…I’m asking for a return trip to Morelia.

The best carne asada in the world

Restaurant row

Shrines at the top of a dormant volcano

Still smiling after a long, steep hike

Morelia at night

These dogs are barkin'

Join Larsen Global and Werner Berger on an Everest Adventure

daxjross@gmail.com (Dax) — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 00:41:00 +0000

We are very excited to announce that we will be trekking with Werner Berger to the base camp of Mt. Everest. In the coming weeks and months we will share with you how we are using USANA to help prepare and train for the challenging 3-week trek through Nepal to base camp. We are tremendously excited that we will be sharing this adventure with some dear friends who also happen to be USANA associates. If you never dream, you never have a dream come true!

Guest Blogger: Sharlie Kaltenbach - A Day in the Life of Sharlie at Sanoviv

daxjross@gmail.com (Dax) — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 21:52:00 +0000

Dr. Wentz created Sanoviv Medical Institute to diagnose and treat chronic and degenerative disease. Although an accurate description...as far as I'm concerned, Sanoviv is much, much more than a state-of-the-art Medical Institute. Sanoviv has a soul. I've been going to Sanoviv for many years, usually with my beautiful daughter, Sharlie. It is a special time for us - a time to reconnect with mother earth, with our own physical and spiritual beings and with each other. Our past visit was no exception. Sharlie was born with a chronic, degenerative disease, Cystic Fibrosis. She believes - and I agree - her annual visits at Sanoviv have helped extend and improve the quality of her life. For me, that is priceless! Sharlie writes a personal blog: www.sharliesangels.blogspot.com and we have asked her permission to share her latest blog entry. I'll believe it will interest and inspire you. Enjoy!

Collette

http://www.larsenglobal.com

collette@collettelarsen.com

USANA's Top Earner and 10-Star Diamond Director

(800) 238-9679

My annual trek to Sanoviv is always a highlight of my year and this year was no different. How could staying in a hospital be a highlight of the year you may ask? Well, Sanoviv is a very different kind of hospital. It is a place filled with love and a unique energy that is vibrant and hopeful. It is a place where people go to receive healing instead of just "medical procedures."

The differences are noticeable immediately. First of all, when I am normally admitted into a traditional hospital, I go through the doors and go to the admitting office where I sit across the desk from a nice or not so nice person who stares at a computer and pounds the keyboard while asking question after question without looking at me. Then a bracelet with my medical record NUMBER is placed on my wrist so the nurses and doctors will be able to identify me. I am then taken to a small, sterile room where I refuse the paper thin gown they offer me and wait (sometimes hours) on a plastic bed for someone to come in and take vitals, do a whole medical history and give me a sort of game plan. I am used to this and I'm not complaining, it's not that bad but when I compare it to first getting to Sanoviv the differences are striking.

At Sanoviv I drive through the gates into one of the most beautiful settings on the planet. The landscaping is pristine and lush and as the shuttle driver pulls up in front of the building, my "coordinator" (who will be available to me my whole stay, scheduling all my treatments and handling anything that needs handling, they are incredible) rushes out to greet me with a welcoming hug. They insist I leave my bags, they will take them up to my room for me and then they take me to the amazing kitchen where Fransisco and Jorge- the cooks greet me with hugs and ask if there is something they can get me, some raw nuts, a protein shake or some fruit. They all call me by my first name, there will be no wrist bands here... Then I am taken to my deluxe room, I am not special, everybody has a deluxe room with an ocean view, a marble bathroom, an amazing King size bed with all non-toxic organic bedding and an attached guest suite in case of visitors. The closet is equipped with my comfy wardrobe for the next two weeks: non-toxic organic t-shirts, shorts and sweats and a robe to lounge in or wear to the pools.

That is only the beginning of how the experiences differ from each other and I will not go in to all of them specifically but I'll just say that when I arrive at Sanoviv, I am filled with excitement and hope and determination to take it all in and let the healing begin!

I am always frustrated that I didn't take enough pictures when I get home so this time I tried to document a whole day. Of course by the middle of the day I started slacking so I still don't have all the pictures I wish I could show you but hopefully the ones I have will give you an idea of how a normal day goes, (don't worry, I promise no COLONIC shots!):

At 7:00 am I wake up and do my breathing treatments (this is when I get my scripture study in too!) Also a step out on my balcony to welcome the new day and take some deep cleansing breaths.

Then I head to the Nurses station to check my vitals and pick up my morning meds. This is the view from the Nurses station...not bad!

I then head to the kitchen for a delicious breakfast, either a yummy avacado/lime protein shake or eggs and veggies. I neglected to take a picture of breakfast but after breakfast I wait in the living room for my doctor. While I wait, I work on the puzzle. It is one that all the patients work on together while we are waiting for our various appointments!
I think I found one!!

Then I meet with my Doctor. She is so wonderful. Our meetings are daily and can last more than an hour. Can you imagine? Talking to your doctor every day for as long as you need to get all your questions answered?! It's awesome and something I have never experienced at a traditional hospital. The catheter on my chest is a subclavian catheter and was put in on my first day. It is how I got all of my I.V. therapies and ultraviolet/ozone treatments while at Sanoviv.

Then down the hall to the lab for some blood work

After my blood work I head back upstairs to the Nurses station for blood ozone treatment...if you are squeamish about blood you may want to skip this photo : )

After a treatment like that I get pampered with a relaxing spa treatment. Today it was a non-toxic manicure and hand/arm massage with a parafin wax treatment to top it off. NO polish, just trimming the nails and cuticles, a good buffing and lots of massaging : ) My hands were baby soft after and my nails were so shiny!

We are all encouraged to get some good vitamin D while at Sanoviv by finding time to sit on our balconies and enjoy the sun. Most days it was difficult to find even 15 mins. of free time for this indulgence but this day I made it happen.

The highlight of my trip by far was getting a visit from Harrison. He came for a few days and was the hit of all of Sanoviv, everyone loved him! His favorite thing to do there was cuddle mommy and listen to music. We did this several times together while he was with me!

My days consisted of many more treatments and lots of wonderful healing green juice, wheat grass, fresh food, meditation classes, yoga, energy medicine and functional medicine, I.V.'s etc. etc. Two weeks is a very long time and although I love being at Sanoviv for the healing I receive, it can be very intense (especially the detoxing) and difficult. Being away from Harrison was the absolute hardest part and many tears were shed just because I missed him so much and ached to be with him. I could not have done this without Ryan, my mom and Ryan's parents. Ryan and my mom took turns being with me and staying home with Harrison and Terry and Linda also had Harrison for part of the time. It was a major team effort and I am more grateful than I can express. Whenever I would feel down about being away from Harrison, my mom would remind me that I was doing this for him, that he needed me to be as healthy as possible and that gave me a lot of strength.

My hope to be with Harrison and be the best mom I can be to him really does give me the strength to keep fighting this disease and Sanoviv is a big part of my fight. I am grateful for a place that treats my whole being: my body, mind and spirit. I always come away from there not only feeling stronger and better physically but also with new insights and inspiration and motivation to take it one day at a time, enjoying the healing journey I am on and truly appreciating every day and every breath. I am so blessed!

Top 10 Online USANA Tools

daxjross@gmail.com (Dax) — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 22:36:00 +0000

There is a wealth of information online and sometimes it is difficult to sort the useful from the superfluous. We have compiled a list of the top 10 online USANA resources below, and we hope it will help you in growing your business.

USANA.com - This is the main site for USANA Health Sciences, Inc., and includes comprehensive information about the USANA products and business. It also provides an excellent Health Assessment and Advisor tool.

What's Up USANA? - We love this site. It is the award-winning USANA blog from the PR department and offers news and entertainment pertaining to USANA. The writing is excellent, especially the recent series of Social Media Tips.

USANA's Blog - USANA's official corporate blog.

USANA's Facebok Page - Become a "fan" of USANA and connect with other associates

USANA's YouTube Channel - A collection of USANA's YouTube videos including the one below (Total Domination: Did You Know USANA is #1):

Media Center - USANA's Media Center is a comprehensive collection of videos from USANA's management team, scientists and independent associates. The videos range from training on the compensation plan to showcasing the USANA opportunity and products to new product information from USANA's scientists to stories of success from USANA's associates. The Media Center allows you to send videos to a friend or to embed videos on your blog or website, like this one that we are particularly fond of:

USANA's Rev3 Page - a great resource for product information, videos and news about our favorite energy drink, Rev3.

USANA's Twitter Page - make sure you search #USANA for all USANA-related tweets.

Networking Times - A great resource for generic training tools for the direct marketing industry.

And of course, our website at www.larsenglobal.com.

I hope you find these sites useful. Now, let us know if we missed anything, and post your favorite sites in the comments below.

Larsen Global Alliance

http://www.larsenglobal.com

collette@collettelarsen.com

USANA's Top Earner and 10-Star Diamond Director

(800) 238-9679

And the winners are...

daxjross@gmail.com (Dax) — Sat, 02 Jan 2010 22:13:00 +0000

We recently held a New Year's giveaway where we picked three people to win a box of USANA goodies plus $100 donated to the charity of the winner's choice. The process of picking the winners (one from a comment on our blog, one from a fan of our Facebook page, and one from Twitter) was very involved and scientific.

We printed out all of the comments from the blog post and meticulously cut them up, threw them into a box and Zachary, with the help of his son Sawyer, picked the winning comment.

Zak and Sawyer picking a winner

The winning entry

Next, we went to the Larsen Global page on Facebook and decided to use a random number generator to choose a winner from all of the people who follow us on Facebook. I asked the program to pick a number between 1 and 1,156 and, lucky for us, we drew a low number, 89. I then went to Facebook and found the 89th person that follows us.

Random number generator

Our Facebook winner

With Twitter, we decided to pick a number between 1 and 22 (this is the number of pages of Twitter followers), and then a number between 1 and 20 (this is the number of followers on a page. So, we picked page 7 and follower number 10.

Our Twitter pick

So, without further ado, the winners of a USANA gift box (worth over $300) and $100 donated to the charity of your choice are:

From Blogger, "R and T"
From Facebook, Ivan Then
From Twitter, Jacob Palmer

If you have won our New Year's giveaway, please email me at info@larsenglobal.com with your shipping address and choice of charity.

Thank you to everyone who participated and thank you for all of the nice comments on the blog, on Facebook and on Twitter. This was fun for us and we would like to do it again. We hope 2010 is a great year for all.

Happy New Year,

Larsen Global

Collette Larsen

Zachary Ross

Dax Ross

http://www.larsenglobal.com

USANA's Top Earners and 10-Star Diamond Directors

(800) 238-9679

New Year's Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Collette Larsen) — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 17:33:00 +0000

Happy Holidays. This year our family has decided to make this a year of giving instead of receiving. We feel so blessed and are so thankful to the many people who touch our lives. We are grateful for all of you, to be able to do what we do, to meet so many wonderful people, and to help share the USANA story and vision of true health and true wealth.

As a thank you, we are going to be giving away three USANA gift boxes full of great USANA products this New Year's Day. We will be choosing three people to receive a USANA gift box (valued at over $300) and we will also be donating $100 to the charity of your choice.

We will be choosing three winners - one from commenters on this post, one from our Facebook fans, and one from our Twitter followers. To increase your chances of winning, be sure to cover all three.

To enter:

1) Comment on this post. If you were sent this through email, click on the title of the post and you will be sent to the original post where you can leave a comment.

2) We will also be choosing a winner from our Facebook page. If you are not yet a fan, go here and click the "Become a Fan" button at the top of the page.

3) Finally, we will choose a winner from our Twitter followers. If you don't currently follow us on Twitter, go here and click the "Follow" button.

You don't have to do all of these, but you will increase your chance of winning if you do. Check back here New Year's Day to see if you won.

Have a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year,

Larsen Global Alliance

Collette Larsen

Zachary Ross

Dax Ross

http://www.larsenglobal.com

USANA's Top Earners and 10-Star Diamond Directors

(800) 238-9679

Small print: we will ship to the U.S. and Canada. People from other countries may enter and win $100 US donated to the charity of your choice, but we will not be able to ship the box of USANA goodies. Also, you can only win once.

Rev3 Expo at Local 5K

noreply@blogger.com (Collette Larsen) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 20:12:00 +0000

We recently set up a booth at a local 5k road race. The race, "Light the Night Against Crime," was a benefit for San Diego County Crimestoppers. The event was an evening race with a party atmosphere that drew over 3,000 people, many in costumes. We gave out samples of Rev3 Energy Drink and Surge Packs.

We had an amazing response from the runners who tried the Rev3. They loved the taste and were amazed at Rev3's low calories, low glycemic value, and the fact that there are no artificial ingredients in the energy drink.

We also conducted a raffle for a free case of Rev3, which brought in a huge response.

Techniques of the Trade - The Eyes Have It

noreply@blogger.com (Collette Larsen) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 21:04:00 +0000

By Collette Larsen

During my fifteen years with USANA, I have looked into the eyes of thousands of people. I've been changed by these encounters so much that I believe eye contact - the way we look at each other - can make all the difference between an uplifting experience and a negative encounter. Eye contact is a powerful form of communication but it can be confusing and a little tricky.

If you avoid looking directly at the person you're speaking with or if you gaze with too much intensity, what you have to say about our products or business plan is just not going to matter much. There's a fine line between appearing shy and unsure of ourselves and coming across so intense that we intimidate the very people we want to befriend.

Several years ago during leadership training at USANA's corporate headquarters, I was privileged to learn from Arch Lustberg. Mr. Lustberg is a communications expert whose client list includes business and political leaders as well as professionals in every field.

Arch had a way of getting us to laugh at ourselves while teaching us tips and techniques I'll never forget. I remember him explaining that all our lives we've been taught to "look 'em in the eye" and how, in reality, many people find that threatening. Arch maintained that very few people find it comfortable to maintain steady eye contact. He suggested rather than looking up, down, looking at our watch, over their shoulder or from side to side, we simply find a spot on our prospect's face (preferably in the general area of the nose, mouth or eyebrows), soften our gaze and look there while presenting. Eye contact, in Arch Lustberg's view, means looking at someone. It doesn't mean making our prospect uncomfortable by "staring 'em down!"

For some, effective eye contact seems automatic. We simply sense when we should look directly into someone's eyes and we also sense when we've looked too long and it's time to look away. It seems natural to intensify our gaze when we're making an important point and to soften our look when we're asking questions. It's understood when we're presenting to more than one person - a husband and wife, for example - that we divide our attention between both of them by alternating eye contact.

For others, reading people - knowing when to look at them and when to look away can be confusing. The good news is that we can practice. There were many times back in my early days in USANA when I practiced on my children and asked them to give me honest feedback. If you have trouble looking into someone's eyes, make a conscious effort to make brief eye contact with everyone you meet. With practice, effective eye contact will come more naturally and you'll feel relaxed and comfortable as you present.

One final point...we have an arsenal of secret weapons to help ease this process. Using a USANA sales tool during your presentation automatically allows you to direct your prospect's attention to the Health and Freedom newspaper, the flipchart or to your favorite booklet or brochure. This relieves the pressure on you and allows you to present with more confidence.

Collette

http://www.larsenglobal.com

collette@collettelarsen.com

USANA's Top Earner and 10-Star Diamond Director

(800) 238-9679

Techniques of the Trade - Touch

noreply@blogger.com (Collette Larsen) — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 22:20:00 +0000

TECHNIQUES OF THE TRADE – TOUCH

By Collette Larsen

You’ve secured an appointment. You’re ready with the USANA flipchart, our Health & Freedom Newspaper or the H&F PowerPoint presentation. But how do you connect so this powerful information actually gets through to this potential business partner? Are there specific things you can say or do during your hour or so with this person that will help them get to “yes?”

Hopefully you’ve learned it’s more important to lead with the person than it is to lead with the product or the business. Every presentation should be tailored to your prospect based on his or her needs and desires; however the basic information you share – the nuts and bolts of USANA – will be the same.

The next few articles I post will outline several techniques I’ve used over the past fifteen years that I believe have added a personal touch to my presentations.

Speaking of touch…use it to your advantage. It’s important to tune yourself into your prospect’s personality so you can use touch judiciously. Touch can be a powerful presentation tool but it can also be a deterrent if it is overused or used inappropriately.

I’ll never forget my embarrassment after a presentation I did in New York City. A delightful gentleman came up afterward to express his appreciation and I characteristically leaned in to give him a hug. He quickly backed away and explained that in his religion men were not allowed to touch women other than their wives. I made a mental note… “Collette, in the future – do your homework!” That homework really paid off when I traveled to Asia to help open USANA markets in Hong Kong and Korea.

Generally, a genuine, warm handshake as you meet your prospect is appropriate and helps establish a connection. I usually use both hands, a firm grip (what’s worse than a limp handshake?) and I make direct eye contact and smile as I say their name.

In addition, there might be a moment or two during your presentation when a light touch on the arm will help project your sincerity. For me, this comes naturally as I’m making a point or answering a question.

I often find myself hugging people I’ve just met, including people who have just listened to my presentation. This is authentic for me and feels comfortable because during my presentations I’ve usually shared personal – sometimes rather intimate – experiences. As I’ve mentioned, do your homework and then “read” the situation. If you’re in tune, you’ll know when to use the technique of touch.

Collette

http://www.larsenglobal.com

collette@collettelarsen.com

USANA's Top Earner and 10-Star Diamond Director

(800) 238-9679

Womenforhire.com

noreply@blogger.com (Collette Larsen) — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 23:13:00 +0000

Women For Hire is a site that empowers women who are looking for a job, or a supplemental income. Tory Johnson, the site's founder is a regular on "Good Morning America" and has been featured of "The View." She has recently focused on direct sales as a way for women to earn an extra income on their own time.

USANA was recently featured and I had the opportunity to share my story.

You can see the video below, or click here for a direct link.

Enjoy,

Collette

http://www.larsenglobal.com

collette@collettelarsen.com

USANA's Top Earner and 10-Star Diamond Director

(800) 238-9679

Share Your Gratitude

noreply@blogger.com (Collette Larsen) — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 22:03:00 +0000

My favorite industry publication "Networking Times" requested I write an article for their May - June, 2009 edition. I began subscribing to this publication shortly after I became a USANA distributor (it was called Upline at the time) and it continues to be a constant source of inspiration and ideas for me. If you missed the issue, here is the article. Enjoy!

Last week I received a hand-written note from a woman in my organization. It was beautiful in its simplicity: “Two years ago you offered me an opportunity that was so good it had to be true. Thank you very much. I appreciate you and pray for you and your family daily.”

I was humbled, as I always am when I receive a thank-you note from someone who deserves my appreciation. After all, this woman is building a team in my downline! If you’ve been involved in our profession for any length of time, you’ve undoubtedly received similar notes of gratitude. Isn’t it amazing to receive thanks from the people who are blessing our lives?

The best way to elevate our profession is by daily expressing gratitude for the gifts network marketing brings to our lives.

Just this morning, I was visiting with a realtor, discussing the topic that rears its head in most conversations these days—the economy. It would have been easy to commiserate. Instead, I expressed sincere gratitude for network marketing, a profession that has brought me financial freedom and allowed me to invest in real estate.

My realtor listened intently as I shared a few details about the opportunity my brother (thank you, Dallin!) shared with me in 1994, which now allows me to live my life doing what I love. I explained how, despite having no formal education beyond high school, being a single mother of five, facing overwhelming medical expenses and having no prior experience in networking, I was able to rise through the ranks of my company, build an organization that spans the globe and enjoy a recession-proof lifestyle filled with abundance and joy.

As networking professionals, we have much to offer potential business partners: improved health, financial freedom, time with our loved ones, opportunities for travel, personal growth, the ability to give back and change lives, and so on. However, something extraordinary happens when we simply share the gratitude we feel for network marketing. It catches most people a bit off guard, perhaps because we’re communicating with their hearts rather than their intellects.

Make gratitude a habit. It’s the law of attraction in action and it comes with a bonus: it’s almost impossible to feel gratitude and stress simultaneously!

The following simple ritual helps me to remember daily how fortunate I am: every morning, before I hit the ground running, I think of something I’m grateful for. At night, rather than lying in bed worrying about all the chaos that’s swirling around me, I make a conscious effort to express gratitude for all the good that happened that day, including the opportunity of working with like-minded people in a wonderful profession.

Feel gratitude, acknowledge it daily, express it to others and watch what happens. Each time I find myself telling a prospect how grateful I am for what has happened to my life as a result of being in network marketing, I can almost read their thoughts: “Maybe the same could happen for me?” And of course, it can.

Warmly,

Collette

http://www.larsenglobal.com

collette@collettelarsen.com

USANA's Top Earner and 10-Star Diamond Director

(800) 238-9679

Help...I'm Stuck

noreply@blogger.com (Collette Larsen) — Mon, 18 May 2009 21:06:00 +0000

HELP…I’M STUCK!

By Collette Larsen

“Hello Collette, I need some advice. I’m stuck. I’ve been at the (fill in the blank) rank for (fill in the blank) months or years and I just can’t seem to move forward in my USANA business.”

Please…could someone give me a buck for every time I’ve received this call or an e-mail similar to this? Or even better, could someone give me a buck for every time I’ve thought this about myself? Ouch! Talk about perceived helplessness.

Now before you read any further, PLEASE watch this video.

Wasn’t that great? When my brother Derek sent it to me, I couldn’t stop laughing. And then I stopped laughing and started reflecting. There’s a pretty powerful message in that short clip, isn’t there?

Are you stuck…possibly waiting for someone to rescue you? This perceived stuckedness (yes, I’m making up words as I go along) can occur in any area of life. I know. I purchased a book for myself back in 1998. The title? “Prince Charming Isn’t Coming.” It’s a great little book by Barbara Stanny that gave me the kick in the pants I needed at that time. I remember thinking, “No one is going to rescue me. I need to keep putting one foot in front of the other and take responsibility for my own happiness.” And you know what…I did!

I’m guessing there are times in all our lives when we need to simply walk up the darn escalator and get on with it. So, if you’re stuck in building your USANA business, here is a step-by-step plan of action for you.

Purchase a dozen USANA sales tools. This can be your favorite but may I humbly suggest my new CD “Kiss Your Boss Goodbye” available here. I don’t like to pitch my own stuff but this CD is good and 100% of my profit goes to charity. Yes…100%.
Thoughtfully make a list of twelve people who need to improve their health or make additional money.
Contact those twelve people (in person, letter, phone, e-mail, text) and let them know you have something they may or may not be interested in, but you just can’t get them off your mind.
Share with them. Again, this will be giving them a USANA tool, inviting them to a webcast or a live meeting, getting them on a three-way call with someone else, whatever feels right to you.
Follow-up and repeat as necessary.

There you go. You get to decide whether or not you remain stuck. My hope is you’ll get up, brush yourself off and start moving again. Enjoy the ride…or the walk, whichever the case may be!

Warmly,

Collette

http://www.larsenglobal.com

collette@collettelarsen.com

USANA's Top Earner and 10-Star Diamond Director

(800) 238-9679

P.S. Here’s a little insider secret…sometimes Prince Charming does show up, usually when you least expect him.

Live Webcast Tuseday, May 12th

noreply@blogger.com (Collette Larsen) — Tue, 12 May 2009 00:58:00 +0000

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

COLLETTE LARSEN & ZACHARY ROSS

USANA 10 STAR DIAMOND DIRECTORS

USANA'S TOP INCOME EARNERS

USANA DISTRIBUTOR OF THE YEAR 13 TIMES

USANA MILLION DOLLAR CLUB MEMBER

TUESDAY, 12 MAY - 5 pm USA PST

HEALTH & FREEDOM PRESENTATION

GOA is privileged to announce our very special guest presenters ... Collette Larsen & Zachary Ross!

Have you ever wished that you could have the top income earners present the USANA Health & Freedom presentation to your guests? Well, now is your chance! Collette and Zachary's USANA journey is an incredible testimonial to show that this business is within reach of anyone who desires to change their life for the better. To read more about Collette's personal USANA story click here.

We are very excited and honoured to have Collette & Zachary presenting to you and any guest you would like to invite to our online 'Health & Freedom Presentation' this Tuesday evening, 12th of May 2009, at 5 pm USA PST.

HOW TO ATTEND A GOA WEBINAR

www.buildglobally.com

ENTER YOUR NAME & EMAIL ADDRESS

PLEASE ENSURE YOU LOG IN EARLY THANK YOU

And the Winner Is...

noreply@blogger.com (Collette Larsen) — Fri, 08 May 2009 14:45:00 +0000

What fun we’ve had with our first Mother’s Day Giveaway. Thank you to each one of you who commented on our blog, left a message on Facebook, sent personal e-mails and Twitter’d about our promotion. We conducted the drawing very carefully and with utmost integrity, writing each of your names on a slip of paper and adding an extra slip of paper with your name on it if you forwarded our message or let us know you were spreading the word.

My daughter Sharlie drew the winning name out of the hat. Sandy Martin, a USANA distributor from North Carolina was our lucky winner. Then, because we were just having so much fun with it all, I gave Sharlie and my son-in-law Ryan the go-ahead to give away one more Sensé Deluxe Pack. Guess who the winner was? Sandy Martin. Seriously, she won it TWICE. I called her today and we discussed the Law of Attraction…Sandy was simply determined to win our Mother’s Day Giveaway!

Well, we then decided to separate the names into two piles and draw another name from those who we did not recognize as USANA distributors. We’re quite certain that once someone tries Sensé, the very least they’ll be is a Preferred Customer. The lucky winner of our second drawing was Joanna Smith, not yet a USANA distributor who is very excited to try our products.

I’m thrilled for these two special women – and know they’ll love the Sensé care package that is already on the way to them.

Happy Mother’s Day to all of you and thanks again for participating. By the way, this was so much fun…stay tuned. I feel a Father’s Day Giveaway coming up soon. A Reset Kit, maybe???

Warmly,

Collette

http://www.larsenglobal.com

collette@collettelarsen.com

USANA's Top Earner and 10-Star Diamond Director

(800) 238-9679

Twitter

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kaltenbach) — Wed, 06 May 2009 22:10:00 +0000

We at Larsen Global have recently begun using Twitter. We can be found by going to twitter.com/larsenglobal. For an explanation of what Twitter is and how it might be useful in your life see the video above. David Pogue, of the New York Times, does a great job of explaining the bare bones of Twitter along with some of its fun uses.

So far we've tweeted about our recent trip to the San Antonio Celebration, posted links to USANA news, and congratulated Bob and Daryl Allen on becoming 2 Star Diamond Directors. We just hope to never have to use it for this.

Mother's Day Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Collette Larsen) — Fri, 01 May 2009 04:21:00 +0000

I love USANA. However, if you know me or have ever heard me speak, you know my GREATEST passion is being a mom and a Grandma!

So, in honor of Mother’s Day, we are giving you – our blog readers who reside in the U.S. - the opportunity to win a Sensé Deluxe Pack. I can think of no better way to pamper yourself, your mom, your wife, your girlfriend, etc. than indulging in this fabulous skin care system.

The Deluxe Pack retails for $179.94 and includes: Gentle Daily Cleanser, Hydrating Toner, Daytime Protective Emulsion, Night Renewal Crème, Eye Nourisher, Rice Bran Polisher, Nutritious Crème Masque, and Perfecting Essence.

Sensé is a complete line of skin and personal care products without added chemical preservatives. It was developed by scientists and is recommended by dermatologists. The secret weapons include Topical Nutrition and Anti-aging Technologies.

In an eight-week clinical study, Deluxe Pack users noticed a marked decrease in the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and dryness, and increased smoothness, elasticity, and moisture.

I have used the best skin care on the market and NOTHING compares to Sensé beautiful science. It truly is luxurious and I love pampering myself with this nutrition for my skin!

Winning this Giveaway is so easy…here’s how:

Leave a comment on this post to earn one entry name slip in our drawing.
To get additional name slips in our drawing, spread the word about this giveaway using your e-mail address list, linking our blog to yours, posting on facebook, twitter, etc. Each time you let us know you’ve helped spread the word, you’ll get an additional slip with your name on it in our drawing.
Please leave your e-mail address so we can get in touch with you if you are our winner.

This contest will run until Thursday May 7th. We will draw the winner on Thursday evening and announce the winner on our blog on Friday morning. I will priority ship the package to any U.S. address you choose in time for Mother’s Day. Good LUCK!

Collette

http://www.larsenglobal.com

collette@collettelarsen.com

USANA's Top Earner and 10-Star Diamond Director

(800) 238-9679

Dreams and Goals, Part 2

noreply@blogger.com (Collette Larsen) — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 18:24:00 +0000

I hope each of you have had enough time since I sent you Part One of this Dreams and Goals exercise, to climb the ladder to your "Ultimate Why."

In this article, I’m going to share some ideas about goal setting. You’ve probably all read the about the 1953 Yale study. It showed that after 20 years, the three percent of graduating seniors who had written down their goals achieved more financially than the other 97% combined. I’ve attended countless trainings and workshops that emphasized the importance of setting short and long-term goals. The truth is, many people do settle for much less than they might have gotten out of life because they didn’t have a clear vision of where they wanted to go.

However, having said that, I must confess a personal shift in my thinking. Yes, goals are great - but only if they help balance your life. I’ve watched individuals become so focused on a particular financial or career goal that health, values and even relationships suffered. It has taken me fifty years to realize that the fullness - the true abundance of life - is less in having, more in doing, and most in being.

THE CIRCLE OF LIFE

It seems that in every seminar I’ve ever attended or every book I’ve read on goal setting circles are used to demonstrate this life balance idea. I’ve become pretty proficient in drawing circles and if I were to divide my circle up it would be into six categories:

Body - health, exercise, physical well-being
Being - spirituality, philosophy, emotional health
Brain - mental health, education, peace of mind
Bonding - family, social, relationships
Balance - time management, prioritizing
Bucks - occupation, financial management, retirement, USANA

Having each category start with a "B" helps me to remember them! For the purposes of this exercise, we’re going to barely scratch the surface. Let’s focus strictly on the "bucks" category - your financial goals with USANA.

MY FINANCIAL GOALS IN USANA

Step One: On a sheet of paper write down everything that comes to your mind when you think of what you can obtain with your USANA business. What would your life be like if you didn’t have any money concerns? Keep your "Ultimate Why" in mind, but don’t be afraid to have some fun and pamper yourself along the way.

By the way, these goals will probably grow as you do. My original USANA goal was to earn $100.00 a month so my autoship would be covered!

Step Two: Now prioritize these goals. What is really important to you? As you prioritize, ask yourself "why?" Eliminate conflicting or totally unrealistic goals. For example, you will not become a Diamond Director in three months! Let me share my own example:

Financial Goal #1 - Earn $100.00 per month.

Why? So I can afford to stay on autoship.

Financial Goal #2 - Earn $100.00 per week.

Why? So I can quit putting our groceries on the credit card and take the kids out to dinner once a month.

Financial Goal #3 - Earn $1,000.00 per month.

Why? So I can keep my home out of foreclosure and hire a yard service.

Financial Goal #4 - Earn $1,000.00 per week.

Why? So I can avoid bankruptcy, start working my way out of debt and take all the kids to our family reunion.

Financial Goal #5 - Earn $2,000.00 per week.

Why? So I can continue to work my way out of debt, contribute to the CF Foundation and get a manicure and pedicure every other week.

You get the idea. It took me several years to get my head above water but I was able to reward my family with some of life’s pleasures along the way.

Step Three: Once you’ve prioritized and listed your goals, set dates for these goals to become a reality. This can be difficult because there are so many variables. For instance, in order to make $100.00 a month you need five people on a 100 point autoship on each of two legs under one business center. If you sponsor two people your first week and they sponsor two the next week and those four sponsor two the next week, you’ll exceed your goal in three weeks.

Keep in mind that in the beginning you might need to talk to several people to get someone willing to listen to a presentation. And you’re likely to do several presentations in order to find someone who wants to partner in business with you. And it’s possible the people you sponsor won’t do exactly as you’ve done. So...be realistic. The good news is that the more friends you make and the more presentations you give, the better you get. Before long you’ll be sponsoring almost everyone you approach.

Step Four: Visualize your goals on a daily basis and state these goals in the present, as though they were real today. Your one-year goal might be, "I’m earning $1,000.00 a month, and saving for the down-payment on a home of my own. I’m healthier than I’ve ever been and I feel fantastic!" Try to spend some time each day visualizing your life as you know it will be. It has become a habit for me to think this way when I’m stopped at a stoplight. My children used to tease me about daydreaming! Now they know better. When I was just a young girl, my mother would insist that we all lie down on the living room floor and listen to a record called "The Strangest Secret" by Earl Nightingale. The process works. You really do become what you think about.

Step Five: Develop an Action Plan. Example: I will work my USANA business part-time - 8 to 10 hours per week - until I’m earning $1500.00 per month. At that time, I will quit my full-time job so that I can be home with my children and still work USANA twenty hours per week. I will contact at least one person on my warm market list every day and schedule one presentation each week.

Step Six: Make a Commitment. Write it down and use it as a guide as you begin to develop leaders in your own organization. Goals and Commitments go hand in hand. Your success will be in direct proportion to the commitments you make and keep.

I hope you’ll find some ideas here that will help you. Remember to set goals in all areas of your life. Honestly, I believe financial goals are among the least important! This method of goal setting works just as well for setting up a personal exercise program, for completing a course of study or for strengthening a relationship. It will take some time...but the personal gratification that comes from living a balanced, authentic life is priceless.

Collette

http://www.larsenglobal.com

collette@collettelarsen.com

USANA's Top Earner and 10-Star Diamond Director

(800) 238-9679

Dreams and Goals, Part 1

noreply@blogger.com (Collette Larsen) — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 23:29:00 +0000

"A definite purpose is the starting point of all achievement."

-Napoleon Hill

I realized early on in building my organization that individuals who had a "why" for building their USANA business, had a much greater chance of reaching the financial benchmarks they’d set for themselves. In fact, I believe having a "why" is more important than knowing "how". I’ve watched various leaders in USANA use completely different methods, tools and systems to build their businesses. It seems that if you have a "why" that’s big enough, you can figure out the "how."

DARE TO DREAM

Have you ever been labeled a dreamer? I have and frankly, I consider that label the highest of compliments. Dreams allow us to envision future realities. If our dreams are aligned with the values of our heart, they create the desire necessary to fuel massive action. With enough energy and passion, what some might consider impossible dreams can become inevitable realities.

Your dream, the underlying reason you are willing to spend time, energy and money building your USANA business, is what I call your "Ultimate Why." Sometimes it’s hidden deep in your psyche but if you’ll give some serious thought to this assignment - really ponder your answers, it will come to you.

YOUR "ULTIMATE WHY"

David Bach, in his best-selling book, Smart Women Finish Rich, outlines an assignment he gives his clients - Building a Values Ladder. This assignment helps him determine why his clients want to be wealthy. On the first rung of a ladder his client writes down the answer to the question, "What’s important about money to you?" He then takes each answer and continues to ask, "what’s important about ______ to you?" Mr. Bach continues climbing the rungs of the imaginary ladder until his client formulates their ultimate reason for becoming wealthy.

I read this book over a year ago and was struck by how closely Mr. Bach’s exercise resembled my interview process in helping USANA distributors determine their "why." I’d never thought of using an imaginary ladder but I do continue asking questions until I get to something I feel is at the very essence of their being. Let me give you an example:

Q: Why do you want to build a USANA business?

A: Because I want to become financially independent.

Q: And what would it mean to you if you never had to worry about finances again?

A: I wouldn’t have to commute to my job and work day in and day out to increase my boss’s net worth!

Q: So if you didn’t have to go to work every day, what would you do with your time?

A: Lots of things! I’d spend time with my children, work in my garden, enroll in a class.

Q: Really? That’s interesting. What would you like to study?

A: Gardening. I’ve always wanted to spend more time outdoors - planting, growing, landscaping. My children enjoy it too. To them, gardening means they get to play in the dirt! I feel such peace when I’m working the earth with my hands. And roses...I adore roses. Their beauty calms me. In fact, I’d love to have my own rose garden.

Q: Wow. That sounds therapeutic and well as beautiful! What if you did have the time and know-how to grow gorgeous roses? Is there some way you could attach a value to that desire? How could you use that talent to make a difference?

A: Actually, I live very close to Scripps hospital and I know they’re looking for volunteers. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if I could take bouquets of roses to the patients who needed some cheering up? Maybe I could even take my oldest daughter along.

This USANA distributor’s "Ultimate Why" is having the freedom (time and financial) to do something she loves (growing roses) with someone she loves (her children) and enriches her own life as well as the lives of others (hospital patients) by sharing her talent.

ASSIGNMENT: Create Your Own "Ultimate Why" Ladder

For this assignment please don’t list specific monetary or time goals - such as: I want to be making $1000.00 per month by April 2010. Setting specific goals and creating a time frame for reaching those goals will be covered in Part Two. For now, focus on your ultimate dreams and desires - and if possible, attach a value to that top rung of your ladder.

Are you ready? Imagine we are sitting across from each other at a round table. On the table is a sheet of paper containing a blank "Ultimate Why" ladder. We’re going to use it to help you determine why you’re building a USANA business.

Start by drawing a very simple ladder on a blank sheet of paper - just two vertical lines about eight inches long with six or seven horizontal rungs.
Relax and collect your thoughts. I want your answers to reflect your innermost desires, not what you think I - or anyone else - wants you to feel.
Start with the first basic question: Why do I want to build a USANA business?
Write your answer on the bottom rung of the ladder. Remember that we’re looking for basic dreams and desires, not specific monetary goals. To give you a personal example, on the first rung of my ladder I wrote, "Self-Sufficient Security."
On the second rung going up your ladder we need a little more perspective on that first desire. The desire you write down probably means different things to different people - or maybe even different things to you at different times in your life. This is getting a bit personal but just to give you an idea...when I asked myself why it was so important to me to be self-sufficient and to have financial security I wrote on my second rung: "I want to be able to take care of my own needs and wants without asking permission from anyone."
Continue climbing your "Ultimate Why" ladder, filling in your answers as you go. Think deeply about each answer. When I did this exercise myself, I found that rarely was the first thought that popped into my head the most important "why" that needed to be listed on the rung of the ladder. I had to dig deep!
You’ll know you’ve completed this assignment when you can’t think of anything more important than the last "why" you wrote down. And hopefully, that last rung of the ladder is more about "being" than about "having" or "doing." Your final "why" is the number one reason you are making whatever sacrifices are necessary to build your USANA business. This is your "Ultimate Why."

Congratulations! You’re well on your way to securing your own success. And even more importantly, you’re well on your way to living a life of significance.

Collette

http://www.larsenglobal.com

collette@collettelarsen.com

USANA's Top Earner and 10-Star Diamond Director

(800) 238-9679

Live Chat Tuesday, March 3rd

noreply@blogger.com (Collette Larsen) — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 21:09:00 +0000

Thank you to everyone who participated in the live chat. You can view the archived chat below.

Stay tuned as we hope to make this a monthly feature at www.larsenglobalbog.com.

USANA's Standard of Quality

noreply@blogger.com (Collette Larsen) — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 21:40:00 +0000

Enjoy the following video and see why we believe USANA produces the highest quality products available.

Collette

http://www.larsenglobal.com

collette@collettelarsen.com

USANA's Top Earner and 10-Star Diamond Director

(800) 238-9679