Reflection Experience...Going to Arbonne GTC 2015! Woo Hoo!

Hello! I hope that your Christmas was as special as mine! I love spending time with my family and truly reflecting on how special this time of year is!

As we approach the new year I have put a special out for the the 90 day evolution challenge that Arbonne has  created.  I am offering the full 3 month set for 50% off!  This offer will go for today until 5pm! Check out the site: http://90dayevolution.arbonne.com/

Last evening my up-line Executive Regional VP took myself and a few of my team members out for dinner as a gift to us.  It was such a nice time - it also displayed how much she cares for her team - but it also shows how much she cares for our success!  

An exciting news flash - I signed up for GTC 2015 in Las Vegas - Yes I am going to my first big conference in VEGAS and I want to go as an Area Manager! The only way to do that is to get to work!  (More on this subject as it becomes closer!)

I am going to make this entry short and sweet because I have a million and one things to do before midnight tonight...but I want you to be left with this thought; 

By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest.

This business is something that doesn't necessarily take a lot of wisdom to start but as you grow a business you begin to understand how people react and respond to certain situations and ideals.  In learning these habits you begin to understand how the Arbonne products can enhance, assist, and ultimately change another's life.  Change can be defined in many ways, change of lifestyle (becoming healthier), change of skin tone/texture (beauty products), change of attitude (health and wellness), change in thinking (Arbonne products being free of chemicals, dyes, parabens, mineral oil, etc.) AND change in personal development (becoming the business!)  

The three methods of wisdom include reflection - looking at oneself or those things around you, imitation - taking what has been giving to you and doing the same and having the same results (my amazing upline) and then ultimately experience - you can't gain experience unless you reflect and imitate.  I am in the midst of my experience with the Arbonne Difference.  I am here to tell you it is worth the reflection, the imitation and finally experiencing the ride!

God Bless and May your New Year bring a New YOU!

December and Arbonne Momentum!

Its been a little while since I posted to the blog - mostly because I have been busy busy busy!

I had a slow start in November but came crashing through with force.  I made District Manager and see that this business will evolve into something bigger and greater than I ever imagined possible!

I had an amazing open house in November!  Check out the Vodka soaked chocolate covered strawberries!

Although the open house was a great success it was shadowed by a great tragedy the Tuesday before.  Our little sleepy town of Kalkaska faced a terrible incident where a man murdered his wife and his father in law on a rampage that lead to him taking a hostage and finally giving up to police peacefully.  This man killed a friend of mine a woman I have known since I was about 10 years old.  Her children went to daycare with mine and I was blessed to teach her older girls gymnastics.  Most recently she became involved with running and had a passion to pursue running to become fit and change her lifestyle. Some may also say it was also a way to escape the abuse at home from her husband. She had RSVP'd to come to this event and it broke my heart that she wouldn't be there but more so that her life was cut short due to the man she married.  A husband is someone who should lift you up when you're down, hug you when you need love, offer you encouragement when needed, support you in your efforts, stand beside you through trials and accomplishments and most important be one's best friend!  Unfortunately she never knew those attributes of a husband and now she will never have that opportunity.

With this party I was able to raise over $200 to donate to her family.  It may not seem like a lot but every penny counts.  Her four children have been left behind and will face many trials in the future.  Tiffany's mother is in need of a new home to raise Tiffany's beautiful children.  A picture of Tiffany and her family is below.

Through this tragedy it has brought many of us closer and created friendships that would have never occurred.  For example, I am working with a few other women to coordinate a 5k, 10k and half marathon in Tiffany's honor.  The race will hopefully take place on May 9th the day before Mothers Day.  She was chosen mother of the year in 2012 and we felt it appropriate day to memorialize.  We hope that it will be an event we can put on yearly!  Tiffany ran her first half marathon this past October.

Now into December we are moving swiftly to Christmas and I hope you have your shopping almost complete (I don't!) but I think I will be using my business to provide some beautiful ladies with products they have never experienced!  

I will attempt to add more to my blog later this week so much to talk about and share!  My team is growing and as my team grows - I see the great things that can happen not just for me but my team members!

God is Good all the TIME.  All the time GOD is GOOD!  AMEN!  Be Blessed my friends!

Life...Family, Work, and Everything that Fits in Between Including a Half - Marathon!

As we come to the end of October you may be getting your fill of spooky ghosts and wicked witches...although my girls choose to be less scary characters, Sara is Elsa...(what 7 year old isn't?) and Lydia choose to be a 50's girl! As you can see below they are quite charming!  We had the opportunity to attend our churches Trunk n' Treat last Sunday and they were pleasantly pleased with the vast amount of candy delivered to their little trick or treat bags!

Lydia 9, Sara 7

This past weekend my husband, Chad and I participated in the half marathon that we have been training for since this past July.  We weren't necessarily in the best shape of our lives but still managed to finish the race in a fairly good time (considering we did nothing but run up hills).  The race took place on Mackinac Island - it was a beautiful place to host a race and I believe that we will return next year but will definitely stay on the Island!

 My Friend Katy, me and my wonderful husband, Chad.

 Prior to the race, smiling and excited...

 With one mile remaining...I wanted to be done and over! 2:14.20!

 Prior to race still smiling!

We spent the day on the island with some friends, Chads mom and our two little girls Lydia and Sara.  

It was a great experience and so looking forward to doing it next year!

Although I have had a pretty eventful last couple weeks my Arbonne business has been a little slow.  I guess that is part of life though you choose what is important and those things that must take a back seat.  No, I am not having Arbonne take a back seat but I did commit to this race and this time with my family prior to entering into this business.  I was feeling a little blue last week because I didn't have any parties scheduled last or this week and I truly believe that God knew I needed a break!  So, I ran, recovered and now looking to get some more momentum for the upcoming holiday season!  I am so excited about where this business is going to take me that I am developing ideas and finding items that inspire and motivate me.  

I believe that this type of venture takes time, patience and continual prayer.  If God chooses for me to be successful I believe that I will, however I can't sit back and wait for God to do the work...He gave us free will for a reason - we have to do the physical labor in order to be successful - I am all in and hands on!

Looking forward to the next month and the next time I check in :)

I almost forgot I am starting my first round of 21-Day Fix on Friday and will be posting pics and sharing recipes using the Arbonne protein shakes.  I done this program last year and loved it (when the cold weather creeps in and the days are shorter I have to find something to do on the inside and this is it)

God Bless and until next time - Aimee

Month 3 Feeling Confident but Also Realizing MLM is Way Different than Healthcare!

Here I am 3 months into my new adventure and I am feeling good but not as good as I hoped! I am still super excited because I know that this business works it is a matter of finding the perfect recipe for individual success.  I did receive my last months pay which was double what my month previous was - yeah! However, I have had more ladies turn me down and many a naysayers explain to me why THEIR opinion is the RIGHT one.  I find this funny because when I am confronted with people like this it makes me wonder is it really well given advice or is it an internal part of themselves that feel they would never be able to succeed at something like MLM and they want to make sure that others share the same feeling.

That leads me to this point.  Proverbs 13:4 comes to mind when I reflect on some of things that have been said and displayed.  Solomon wrote "The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied".  Do I believe that some who have made ill comments to me to be sluggards? No.  However, voicing negative thoughts and discouragement displays their inability to be supportive even if they don't believe in your actions.  The bible mentions that iron sharpens iron and that we should call out our brother or sister when they're in need of lifting up or drifting astray.  It is important to have those in your life who will lift you up when you're down and those to bring you to reality when you need an epiphany.  Being accountable goes a long way.  I am accountable for my own actions...if I were to tear someone down because they decided to get in shape and run a marathon am I directly responsible if they fail? Were it my negative comments that filled their mind? The mind is a powerful tool and keeping that in mind it can make or break you NO matter the task, goal or success one is seeking NO ONE CAN DETERMINE YOUR PATH BUT YOU.  The ability to differentiate between those who are creating negativity and those who truly have your best interests at heart is necessary to be personally successful.

I have chosen to do this venture because I believe in the Arbonne products, I am a user of the products and they work for me.  Why is it wrong to share the natural excitement I have over these products with those that surround me? I am happy with the results that I personally have seen with my skin and as we move into November I will be coming more involved with the health and fitness component of Arbonne.  I truly believe that I can be successful in this business and the only one who can determine my success is me!

I pray that if you're reading this blog that I am able to inspire you to choose your own path and let your mind block out negativity and to realize that accountability is realized in how you react and respond to others.  Are you someone who INSPIRES?  Are you motivated by positive feedback but question yourself when negativity shows it's face?  Are you equipped to be the best you can be at whatever you choose to pursue?

In this venture I am blessed with an incredible upline who has INSPIRED me to pursue something that many believe can't be done, I am MOTIVATED by my family and a desire to be something more than I am now and I have been EQUIPPED with the resources and tools that I need to be a successful Arbonne consultant.
For those who say it can't be done; this month I  moved into District Manager for Arbonne - yes one step above the label of consultant but a step that many say can't happen...So I will keep looking forward, being a product of the products I promote and will continue to seek those who desire the same goal as I!  

I believe that Arbonne was way ahead of it's time considering that in 1975 who thought what we put on our skin and ingest should be PURE, SAFE AND BENEFICIAL?  I believe that my testimony and my proof will assist in relaying the message that Arbonne is a magnificent company that offers products that work and opportunities for people like me can be successful as long as you keep your mind clear from negativity, rely on accountability and always seek God.  

A Learning Curve...Keeping an Eye on Your Direction and Giving it to God!

October...entering into a season I am not fond of...winter...I do like fall weather but I know with the cooler and shorter days ahead is a lead into the season I dread the most.  Are there any of you out there that feel the same?

Enough complaining.

So I am starting my third month of Arbonne and have found it to be as exciting as the first couple months...but am realizing that I need to listen more to podcasts on the products and listen to the training calls.  It is just like any other business you must educate yourself in order to do the best job that you're capable of!

I have 4 parties this far planned for October and I am praying that I will be able to book a few off of the parties that I already have scheduled.  I believe the biggest road block for any business is the person who is the business owner.  As a person who has always worked for someone else and in the healthcare field I find selling and promoting products that are not necessarily a "need" can be a little daunting.  However, with that said I am also learning more about the difference that Arbonne is about.

I think about the fact that this company was founded in 1975 on creating products that are pure, safe and beneficial...who was even thinking back then that some of these chemicals still in use by other companies were harmful?  Peter Morck the founder of Arbonne was truly ahead of his time by developing a fascinating company that stands firmly on producing products that are free of chemicals and dyes, soy and gluten free and free of mineral oil...along with multiple other "things" that have been proven harmful to humans.

I am in awe that I have the opportunity to pursue this venture and want to thank my amazing husband, Chad for supporting my endeavor and keeping any negative thoughts to himself.  He believes in me and in doing so it helps ME believe in ME.  Again, I can't say it enough, the biggest obstacle to success is YOU. Your Often Unsure.  I do find myself being unsure of my choices and decisions especially since I don't have the vast amount of experience like some ladies and gents.  However, that pushes me to research and understand more about what Arbonne will offer someone that has no clue what it even is!

Identifying a persons needs, desires and wants will assist in determining what product to promote and offer.

I am looking forward in documenting my success and sharing my experience.  One of the items I did last month was a fundraiser for the Traverse City Swim and Dive team.  This was my first experience doing something like this and learned a lot!  Although there was a good turn out for the event we had roughly 680$ in orders - that could of been better BUT it is our first year and I am looking forward to doing it again!

These are pictures prior to the event starting.  We had make-up, facials, hand-washing, protein shakes and a variety of items!

The First Fruits of My Journey with Arbonne!

Proverbs 3:9-10 Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.

This verse came to mind yesterday when I received my first paycheck from Arbonne!  Although it is small compared to my normal job's income it still shows that for not a whole lot of work I have been compensated.  I have joy because I know that this can be done!

Another reason I have joy is I know that I will be able to give back!  Along this journey we intend to pay debt off, increase tithing and assist our children with their college education.  Yes those are pretty hefty goals.  However, I had to define my WHY when I chose to do this venture...My WHY's were big and with big WHY's have to come BIG Actions!  That brings me to another point that our pastor spoke about on Sunday.  Proverbs 75 was the topic of discussion and for those of you who know the bible you may know that this is where the phrase "don't toot your horn" comes from.  In summary, Proverbs 75 is discussing the need to be patient for the Lord, allow Lord to move - don't believe that your better than what the situation is displaying.  As Pastor Craig asked, are you a member of the AAA club?  How you handle situations and those situations of out of your control includes, having a good ATTITUDE, choosing appropriate ACTIONS, and allowing ACCEPTANCE of what God has provided.

I can take this journey I am on with a very HAPPY ATTITUDE right now because I feel so positive - I must be real though, I am sure there will be times where a bad attitude may come into play...I will pray.  My ACTIONS are necessary to excel...what I chose for my actions will do more to define the outcome.  I must treat this venture as a business and remain positive in the darkest of times!  Finally, ACCEPTANCE of where I am and the work that must come!

So let me update you on a few things that has happened since my last entry.  I have signed up Zoey and Haley - they're the beginning of my team!  Although I have just started I feel that God has placed these two young beautiful women in my life for my growth and theirs!  They're smart, beautiful and on fire for this business! Below is a picture of Haley and her before and after pic of using Arbonne make-up!  She is beautiful!

I have successfully done a full presentation on my own - with multiple areas I need to work on improving.  The biggest one is the closing!  If you don't have a good closing all the work you have done up to that point - is well a waste of time!  One of the items I am working on is creating beautiful gift boxes that I will use for a game at the end of my presentation.  It's called....DEAL or NO DEAL!  Check out my boxes!

I LOVE making these and in the process of putting together some promotional Christmas items that I will offer free hand-made gift boxing for!  How fun is that? Great shopping and the wrapping completed!

If anyone is interested in knowing how to make these cute boxes I will be happy to share!

So you may be wondering - what does my family think?  They are all very supportive and even willing to help me out!  A matter of fact my husband tried out my favorite product, the "instant lift gel" and was completely impressed!  Chad also uses the RE9 mens line and my 14 year old daughter uses the "Clear Advantage Set".  Chad has used the RE9 line for almost 4 years and loves the results.  I am working on creating  before and after pics of me using the RE9 line for 30 days...those will be coming soon!

As I continue on this venture, I will keep posting and I hope that you will continue to read! God Bless!

1 Month and Feeling Positive; A Journey of Arbonne!

We are all on a JOURNEY! Journey of Life!  How we each choose everyday defines where our Journey will take us.  Where is yours taking you?

As I can imagine we all have had some road blocks, small and large obstacles, smooth terrain and bumpy roads.  No matter who YOU are we are all in the same boat...Living Life!

I started Arbonne one month ago and I am more excited today than I was 30 days ago!  Some may find this hard to believe because it usually goes the other way.  For example, someone introduces you to someone or something and it seems cool, exciting and it is the center of your attention for a span of time. As I have read and researched Arbonne I have come to realize 2 important factors that contribute to FAILURE.

1. Not embracing this venture or journey as a BUSINESS.
2. Not believing or using the products.  For me that was number one for me, I had to believe in what I was going to share with others!

Now am I seasoned, well-tuned Arbonne Consultant? No.  But I understand business and what it takes to be successful! Arbonne has an amazing network of people who come alongside of you while you learn, understand and grow with your business.  This is one component that Arbonne does well  compared to other businesses/multi-level marketing companies.  As a newbie it is so important to see and understand how others around you take their business seriously. Whether just beginning or a 10 year veteran it is relative to be actively working and assisting those who come aboard after you.  Others around you see your success and  will desire the same, dreaming about it though, gets no one anywhere - YOU MUST TAKE ACTION!   Being surrounded by those who want to be successful will foster a strong sense of belief in your own capabilities!  Continuous  motivation and encouragement is a must!

That brings me to TEAM.  How to build a team when your still learning yourself.  With Arbonne and many other multi-level companies they stress the importance of building your team.  At first I thought "how am I going to do that when I don't have a clue of what I am doing?!" Well, I believe building a team while each other is learning may be the most beneficial because brainstorming and new ideas can roll off each other and assist in building both of your teams, well you can see what happens then, it just starts flowing!  Thus far, I have two young, bright and ambitious young ladies signed on along with 3 preferred customers, not bad for a month!  I want to do better next month, I want to share this experience with others and let them see that YES this is possible! Why not hop aboard while I am experiencing this journey also!

So as with any business there are procedures, regulations, timelines, etc. Arbonne has simple procedures that will lead you to success, a website full of training videos and information to fill your time with and a vast amount of people ready and willing to help.  I view this business sort of like a franchise, the manufacturer is there, how I promote and share the product is entirely up to me!  This is my business - and I intend to be successful!

Yes there are naysayers...blah.  I was one.  I am still one at times, however, not with Arbonne.  I sum it up like this, there are lots of people that hate McDonalds, don't eat their food, despise the company, write terrible reviews and even do documentaries on how horrific the food is...but there are still individuals that buy land, invest in the company, construct a building, staff it and run a very successful business...why? Because they can even through all the negativity, they are still successful!

My calendar is almost full for the month and working into October.  As time progresses I will document my journey...I was at a meeting last night and the young woman said that I too could be driving the company car, a white mercedes in a year...I don't necessarily need a car to show my success although it would be nice, I want to see results, I want to see other peoples lives transformed, I want to have a company and team that is successful.  I know that through hard work, determination, and prayer all things are possible!

If your reading this and are interested in what Arbonne is all about...check out my website http://letmeshowyouthebenefits.myarbonne.com/ it is still underconstruction...but soon, very soon it will be completed...my deadline(just like any business deadlines are needed to excel)
is Friday September 12, 2014!

And of course like any other business who better to explain the benefits than the user, me :)  Below is a picture of before and after using the "it's a long story" mascara by Arbonne...I am NEVER using any other mascara!  It goes on without clumps and smooth...not to mention the LENGTH! LOVE <3

The beginning of my journey, my new business: Arbonne Consultant!

Hello! I am a 40-something woman looking for something, new, different, and fun!  I am a working professional who is close to finishing my MBA and seeking higher level management prospects until I went to my third ARBONNE PARTY.  I listened to the consultant, Hollie Bittenbender, I already use some of the products and knew that I would be buying some at this party.  What I didn't realize is how intriguing the business was!  I decided to host my own ARBONNE party, mostly because I would be granted 35% off...why wouldn't you?!

3 weeks later I hosted my ARBONNE party with 10 guests in attendance, it wasn't a big party, a little over $500 in sales...I made the quota of $500 to received $250 worth of products for $50....I am happy, now back to business at my professional job and finishing that MBA, right?

Hold on....Hollie the original Arbonne consultant brought her upline Katie Kniss along with her to assist at the party.  Hollie has been in the business since March of 2014 and Katie for 9 years!  WOW.  Through some discussions and getting me excited about the advantages and the benefits of being an ARBONNE consultant I eagerly jumped aboard and signed up to be an ARBONNE consultant!

Now What?!?

I am a nuclear medicine technologist who currently is responsible for a mobile PET/CT unit and the daily functions at all locations it services.  I have 4 beautiful girls who all have different interests and activities.  I have a supporting husband.  AND I have no idea how to start a home based business!?

Now What?!

I dive in!  I had my launch party this past Monday; which was a success with the help of Katie Kniss and all of her products that she owns...

1. Need to ensure I have the basics to do a party on my own...One great thing about ARBONNE...your upline will assist you with parties till your comfortable and you have the products you need to be successful...

Note: IT TAKES MONEY TO MAKE MONEY!

2. Reaching out to my "warm" market with a lot of COLD returns....

Now What?!

I am still working on that...

But the good news?

I made three, yes 3 bookings off my first party....let the wheel start rolling!

I believe in these products and when you believe in something it makes it that much easier to be successful!

Note: IF YOU LOVE SOMETHING YOU WANT TO SHARE IT WITH THOSE YOU LOVE!

As I build my business I will keep you updated with all the excitement and the let downs...Right now I am just excited about something new, something different and something fun!

What woman doesn't like a night of pampering, hanging out with friends, eating some snacks and hearing about an opportunity that could change their lives...no matter what YOU say...ARBONNE has already changed mine - even if I haven't made any money yet!