My Arbonne journey began like so many others; the awesome products quickly led to an interest in finding how this business could fit into my already full life. As a mother of four, ages 3 to 11, with a husband who is a small business owner, my life was busy and scheduled. My youngest child was nearing the preschool age and I knew that would free up some time for me. My children have always been my number-one concern so being at home to raise them was never in question. I had previously read a book that got me thinking about retirement and financial security. With my husband having a successful concrete contracting business, we have realized that the American dream of being a business owner is not always what it is cracked up to be. The disadvantages of being the employer can sometimes outweigh the advantages. Nevertheless, I knew there was no way that being an employee would get us any closer to that financial freedom. I knew I had to “mind my own business,” but what?
Just about that time, I was introduced to Arbonne. The Arbonne philosophy of pure, safe and beneficial results really appealed to me. I fell in love with the products and began sharing them with family and friends. I told my sponsor, “I want to do this business.” The wheels were put in motion and I was about to stretch and grow like never before. When I started out, I thought I had to know everything about everything. I researched the products and every business tool available. However, after a few months I started to get discouraged. My initial reason for doing this business was to share the products and tell people what I had learned. This was selling products, but I had trouble growing a team. I knew building an organization was the eventual goal. I had difficulty showing people the vision of what could be because I did not see it myself. Not only did I have to believe in the opportunity before me, but also believe that I could be someone in the position to influence others. So, I began to build up these beliefs by recognizing opportunities and learning the industry of network marketing, so that I could share them with others. But more importantly, my time was spent to improve myself as the leader I felt God called me to be.
They say, “When the student is ready, the teacher will come.” I now see it a little differently, “When the teacher is ready, the student will come.” However, it all goes hand in hand. We need to switch roles constantly between student and teacher. I think this is very important in this business. I learn so much from the wonderful people in my life, so that I can turn around and teach it to someone else.
My Region is named The Spyglass after a children’s book. The book teaches children the virtue of seeing the world through the eyes of faith. As the natural eye only sees a portion of the truth, the eye of faith sees without limits. This is to my biggest Why: My husband, Lou and children. We have all worked together to attain this dream.
To Kyle, Kaitlin, Kelsey and Lucas: Of all the angels in all of heaven, how do you suppose I was lucky enough to get you?
To Mom and Dad: You both have always been there to support me and urge me to always be the best I can be. You have given me the ultimate role models of a God-inspired leader. Thank you!
To my wonderful team: To AM Colleen Gleason, thanks for always being there right behind me, lighting a fire. You will be an RVP in no time at all. Your team is very lucky to have you as a leader as I am to have you as a friend. To DMs Florence Duran, Melanie Trahey, Christine Vieira, Lesley Gleason and Melinda Scott: Always believe in yourselves and your dreams will come true. To AM Stephanie Eggert, my sister-in-law and friend: Thank you always for your support and now thank you for becoming a leader on my team. Your teaching and leadership skills have always inspired me to be more and do more. The day I am there to see you get those keys to your Mercedes-Benz, that is going to be awesome! To your mom, DM Brenda Bingaman: Your team will continue to grow and they are very fortunate to have you. To my first business partner AM-to-be, Debbie Hall: We have come a long way. Keep your eyes on your goal and it will be here in no time. To DM Heather Olson: Friends first, business partners now. Wow, you jumped in and lit a fire! To Nathan: You are a great model of what a supportive spouse can do. To my friend, Penney Olson: Thank you for your support and for always being there with a “shot of reality” when I need it.
To my upline, NVP Kristin Vander Veen, ERVP LuAnn Reitmeier-Budiselic and NVP Donna Weiser: Thank you for your encouragement and never-ending support. You all have been, and will continue to be, fabulous people to duplicate.
The testimonials on this Web site reflect the actual experience of each individual, are anecdotal only, and may be atypical. The testimonials are not based upon any clinical study.
