Shine!

Martin Luther King, Jr once said, 

"The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy." 

Henry W. Longfellow said,

"The rays of happiness, like those of light, are colorless when unbroken."

Both of these quotes give us comfort and pause having the confidence and understanding that in order for us to continue to grow and develop, we will need to overcome a number of bumps in the road along our journey through life. People will disappoint us, possibly betray us, and even try to stop our success and our peace of mind. But, with an honest heart, real concern for others, consistent hard work, a strong knowledge of who we are, and a thankful heart for all of our blessings, we can overcome any obstacle that life may throw our way.

My heart goes out to those who are going through personal challenges with their health, their marriage, or their financial and family trials. Struggles seem to polish our edges and make us wiser if we allow it too. Keeping the trials of others in our thoughts and prayers will also draw these people close to our heart. As we do this we will recognize how best we can help them and understand their needs. Being aware of these challenges gives us insight into knowing that timing may not be right for them now to look at our opportunity. These individuals may just need a friend to talk to, someone to listen, and to understand.  Be that friend first. Feel what they feel, and be there to help them in their time of need. The blessings and rewards that come to you when you do care and truly serve your fellow man, far outweighs the bonus checks that could be made.

Stephen Covey says,

"We are not human beings on a spiritual journey. We are spiritual beings on a human journey."

Ask questions that bring understanding. Use the formula we call - "FORM" - which is family, occupation, recreation and message. This formula for communication will always remain the key to getting to know the people you'd like to work with now or in the future when timing is right. Remember that network marketing is a people-to-people business. That's why meeting prospects face-to-face across from each other over a kitchen table, or in a casual in-home gathering, brings warmth and safety to the sponsoring process. Yes, it may be a business that, as we're told, needs to be treated like a business. But it's the people caring about people that separates network marketing from the corporate atmosphere. And our business building foundation must be solid with honesty, integrity and truth. We are trusted to share truths along with our products. That's why we share our personal "why" along with our stories. We share from our heart. If we do this, we will reach all of our goals and achieve our dreams. But more importantly, we will be truly fulfilled with knowing we have attempted - the best we can - to leave the world a better place.

A favorite phrase of mine is, "the sun is the sun because it shines, not because it tells you it's the sun."  Be the sun and shine. Let what you do radiate with love from your heart. Let us all grow and develop personally with this business and become better people because of it. Let us create a positive environment where we truly care for those we contact. Let us be a friend to those we involved with us. Let us always edify our upline and empower our downline. If and when this is done, we won't find ourselves caught up in things that can hurt ourselves in the long run, or hurt others we work with. Our goals will be to uplift as many people as we can. Simply "shine" should be the first thought to start your mornings. And when you shine, you become a light for others to follow and emulate. You have the chance to make a difference. And therein lies the secret to a successful, positive business. So, my networking friends...simply shine!