Hello, ntwrkrs! It’s great to be here with you in this book, and I’m excited to share some of my top tips with you on how I’ve achieved success in our amazing profession. My career in Network Marketing spans over eight-and-a-half years, and my path has not only been rewarding but it has also shaped me into a serial entrepreneur and a mentor to many. This chapter is titled “Not Everyone’s Going to Make It,” but don’t you worry—I’ve got the five survival skills every Network Marketer needs to create a thriving business, and I’m going to walk you through them on these pages.

Before we jump in, I’ll tell you a bit about me: I started my entrepreneurial journey as a boutique owner but became interested in Network Marketing once I saw the time freedom it allowed. Compared to my brick-and-mortar business, this new profession promised low overhead, flexibility, and the opportunity to take my business as far as I wanted, without being tied down to one location or traditional business hours. Just like that, I jumped in, waved the world of physical retail behind, and built a seven-figure business that, to date, has paid me over seven million dollars. So, I hope my story gives you a bit of insight into what I’m going to teach you in this chapter!

When I teach these skills to my team and community, they get the results they desire. They become focused, they stay on track, and they keep their heads in the game like never before. They realize that Network Marketing is not one constant volume of business but an ebb-and-flow type dance that requires commitment, determination, and perseverance. And if they can stay on track this way to get everything they want out of this business, so can you—with the help of these five survival skills.

Stick with me in this chapter and you’ll learn how to build your own momentum, be your own cheerleader, ride the rollercoaster of Network Marketing, embrace the change that inevitably comes with this profession, and ensure that you never give up. After all, quitting shouldn’t even be in your vocabulary! My goal is to help you see the potential within yourself to build a thriving business and to stay on track, just as I have done and continue to do with my teams and community.

So, are you ready to transform your business and build the life you’ve dreamed of? If so, then let’s get to it!

Create Your Own Momentum

When I started my career in Network Marketing, I quickly realized a fundamental truth: momentum—the force that propels us toward our goals—cannot be borrowed or gifted; rather, it must be generated from within. This realization came to me not through easy wins but through understanding the essence of perseverance. It dawned on me that waiting for external triggers like a company promotion or a training session to spark action was nothing but misplaced hope. True momentum is self-created and self-sustained!

Whether you’re leading a team of many or you’re just focusing on yourself, this principle applies. In fact, if you’re a team of one, then creating your own momentum will attract a team to you quickly! And even if you have a team already, you must learn to lead yourself first—and that means you can’t be waiting around for something external to motivate you into action.

Creating your own momentum means cultivating an inner drive that pushes you toward your goals, regardless of external circumstances. It’s about making a promise to yourself—a promise that holds more weight than any other commitment. This personal pledge is what keeps you showing up every day, taking steps that inch you closer to your dreams. It’s important to realize that to achieve the extraordinary, you have to be extraordinary in your daily actions.

I learned this firsthand on New Year’s Eve in the year 2015. It was on the last day of December, the last day of 2015, that I found myself looking at sales numbers that fell short of my goals. My team and I had only managed to sell twenty-six kits that month, and this simply wasn’t going to get me to the goal I’d set to hit by June of the next year: my one-year anniversary of being in Network Marketing.

However, out of those twenty-six kits, eighteen consisted of my personal sales. It was sobering to realize that all the festivities of the holiday season had lulled my team into complacency, and essentially, everyone besides me had taken the month off from work. Although it was all of our first years in Network Marketing, I realized that if I wanted to hit my goals, I was going to have to build a team made of people who were willing to work as hard as I was.

And so, that’s just what I did. I went out and found people who were self-motivated to hit goals, and who wouldn’t slow down because external motivations waned during the holiday season. This might sound a bit harsh, but it’s 100% true. Not everyone on the team you have right now is going to get you to your goals. Will some of them? Sure! But not all. And that’s why you never, ever slow down your own action waiting for someone else to decide they’re going to work.

My best advice is to lead from the front, motivate yourself, and choose team members who will do the same. When I finally did this in January 2016, our sales were huge. In February, we surpassed that. And by the end of April, two months before my one-year anniversary in Network Marketing, we crushed the goal I’d set for June. Fourteen months later, I broke every company record, and I had built the fastest-growing team in company history.

So, start with yourself: build the momentum inside of you, independent of what you’re experiencing around you, and it will be ready for the team that’s coming. Because when you do, the right people will enter your life. Here are some action steps to ensure your motivation comes from inside you:

1. No matter what your team is doing, never fall out of recruitment mode. If everyone around you is taking the summer months lightly in their business or falling away during the holidays, don’t fall to their level of engagement! Instead, double or triple your efforts. When you do, you’ll attract team members who want to do the same. 

2. No matter how big your team gets, never slip into management mode. Even though it’s tempting to take a break from active recruiting, it’s never the time to sit back and supervise! Always be enrolling, even if your team is crushing recruitment goals.

Creating your own momentum is an empowering process. It’s about taking control of your journey, setting the pace, and maintaining it against all odds. For me, it was not just about reaching a goal but about transforming myself into someone capable of overcoming any challenge. In my experience, transformation became the catalyst for not only my success but also the success of my team! As you walk farther down the path of your Network Marketing career, remember that the power to create momentum lies within you. It starts with a promise to yourself—a promise that you are worth the effort, every single day.

Become Your Own Cheerleader

In my relentless pursuit of success within Network Marketing, I’ve encountered countless challenges and moments of self-doubt. Yet, one of the most transformative lessons I’ve learned is the vital importance of being your own biggest, loudest cheerleader. This concept might seem simple and straightforward, but its implications are far-reaching. In an industry where external validation can be hard to come by, the ability to self-motivate and celebrate one’s achievements becomes indispensable.

Being your own cheerleader means cultivating a mindset of self-support and recognition—understanding that while accolades from others are gratifying, they should not be relied upon as the fuel that drives lasting success. This mindset is crucial because, let’s face it, Network Marketing is tough! It demands resilience, persistence, and an unwavering belief in oneself. I’ve learned that success in this business is not just about achieving goals, but about overcoming the mental and emotional hurdles that accompany the journey.

Your upline may not be the most supportive—believe me, I’ve been in that situation before, and that’s okay! Understand that not everyone is going to be supportive or cheer you on, so you must be that person for yourself. Early on, I learned how to support and cheer for myself, and it changed the way I approached my business.

Instead of dampening my spirits, being my own cheerleader ignited a fire within me. It propelled me to work harder and prove to myself that I could exceed my personal expectations. I became my loudest advocate, celebrating every win, no matter how small. This self-support was not just about self-congratulation; it was a statement of self-belief and resilience. So, how can you become your own cheerleader? Well, you can start by taking these steps:

1. Celebrate your wins. Start by acknowledging every success, big or small. Did you reach a new milestone? Celebrate it. Did you outperform your personal best? Give yourself a pat on the back! It’s important to recognize your efforts and achievements because this recognition will fuel your motivation and ambition.

2. Create visible reminders of your success. Whether it’s a printed picture celebrating a trip you earned or a post on social media sharing your latest achievement, make your successes visible! These reminders are not just for others; rather, they are for you, so you will remember your capabilities and accomplishments.

3. Use lack of support as fuel. Instead of being disheartened by a lack of support, let the lack of support motivate you to push harder. Prove to yourself (and, by extension, to others) that you have what it takes to succeed. This mindset transforms potential negativity into a powerful driver of personal growth and achievement.

Network Marketing is as much about personal development as it is about business success. Learning to be your own cheerleader is a key part of this journey. It teaches you to rely on your inner strength and to find motivation within yourself, even when external support is lacking. This self-reliance not only drives your business forward, but it will also foster a deeper sense of self-worth and confidence. Remember, your journey is unique, and your achievements are worth celebrating—by you, for you. Let your voice be the loudest in the room, cheering you on to greater heights!

Ride The Rollercoaster

What comes to mind when you read the word rollercoaster? If you’re thinking of a slow climb to exhilarating highs, then a terrifying race to daunting lows, then back up again, well—the metaphor fits! This journey of ups and downs describes the path of Network Marketers as well, where embracing the inherent ups and downs becomes not just a strategy but a necessity for survival and success. If my years of experience have taught me anything, it’s that the true measure of our resilience and potential for growth lies not in how we revel in our victories but in how we navigate our valleys.

So, riding the rollercoaster in Network Marketing means acknowledging and preparing for the inevitable fluctuations in business. It’s about understanding that no journey is a straight line to the top! Every leader in this industry, myself included, has faced their share of peaks and valleys. However, it’s in the valleys, which represent the toughest times, where the most critical work is done. This work isn’t just about pushing through; it’s about becoming the person who can not only reach but also sustain those peaks.

For me and many others, the year 2020 was a sobering example of this rollercoaster. My former company experienced unprecedented growth, and we reached a sales peak that seemed insurmountable. Yet, as with all highs, a decline followed that was not just a challenge, but a test for leadership. Make sure you’re doing the necessary personal work during your ascent to handle the inevitable decline with grace.

My journey through this period reinforced an important lesson: the importance of continuously working on oneself, especially during the lows. It’s this personal growth that equips you to handle the highs and the lows and maintain your success. So, if you’re ready to navigate the rollercoaster with confidence, here are three action steps:

1. Lead from the front, especially in the lows. Your team looks to you for guidance. In the valleys, your leadership is more critical than ever. Continue reaching out, following up, and demonstrating through your actions that the path forward is through persistent, consistent effort.
   
   

2. Prepare for the inevitable declines. Understand that business cycles are a part of the journey. By anticipating the valleys, you can prepare yourself and your team for them, ensuring that when they arrive, you’re not caught off guard but ready to use them as opportunities for growth.
   

3. Embrace personal development in the valleys. Use the challenging times for deep personal growth. Ask yourself: who do I need to become to overcome this? Engage in activities that build your resilience, expand your skills, and strengthen your vision for the future.

The rollercoaster of Network Marketing is not just a test of endurance, it’s a testament to our ability to grow, adapt, and lead. It teaches us that success is not only about enjoying the highs, but also about using the lows as a foundation for growth and learning. By embracing the entirety of this journey, we prepare ourselves for temporary achievements and fleeting celebrations as well as sustained success and leadership in the industry. 

Remember, it’s the work you do in the valleys that propels you to the next peak! Let this understanding guide you and your team through the ebbs and flows, and together, you’ll emerge stronger, more resilient, and more successful!

Embrace The Change

In the dynamic world of Network Marketing, one of the most crucial skills for success is the ability to embrace change. Change can be scary for many people—it brings with it uncertainty and the need to adapt. However, those who welcome change with open arms are the ones who continue to grow and flourish in their careers. On the other hand, those who resist change and quickly resort to negativity often find themselves left behind, struggling to keep up with the evolving landscape of the profession.

Change in our business can come in various forms, such as updates to your company’s product line, modifications to the compensation plan, shifts in corporate leadership, or even changes in what your customer base desires! It’s important not to get bogged down by these changes but to view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.

I recently experienced a significant change in my career. After eight-and-a-half years with my previous company, I made the bold decision to move to a new company. This transition was not easy; it was a leap of faith that required me to step out of my comfort zone and embrace the unknown. The change was challenging, filled with uncertainties and adjustments; however, it was also invigorating and empowering! It reaffirmed my belief in my potential and my commitment to personal and professional growth. It reminded me that embracing change is about trusting the journey and believing in one’s ability to adapt and thrive in new environments.

When facing change, it’s important to remember that you are not defined by the company you work for. You are an individual with a unique brand and value. It’s easy to get caught up in company loyalty, but it’s essential to maintain a sense of independence and be open to exploring new opportunities that align with your goals and values. Embracing change means being ready to adapt and evolve, even if it means finding a new table to sit at!

To successfully navigate change, here are a few action steps to consider:

1. Accept change and assess your attitude. Recognize that change is a part of the journey and come to terms with it. This might take some time. While you’re getting used to the idea, work on the understanding that your attitude towards change can significantly impact your experience—so choose to view it as an opportunity for growth and development rather than a setback.

2. Prepare for transition. Anticipate changes that are coming down the pipeline and think about ways you can adapt to them. Whether it’s learning new skills, expanding your network, or adjusting your business strategies, being proactive can help you navigate change more effectively.

3. Stay true to your brand. Remember that you are your own brand, regardless of the company you represent. Continue to build and nurture your personal brand, as it will remain constant even when other aspects of your business change.

4. Seek support. Change can be challenging, so don’t hesitate to seek support from mentors, peers, or even professional coaches. Having a support system can provide guidance, encouragement, and different perspectives as you navigate change.

In short, change is an integral part of the Network Marketing industry! By embracing change, you open yourself up to new possibilities and opportunities for growth. It’s about betting on yourself, trusting your abilities, and moving forward with confidence. Change can indeed be a breath of fresh air, bringing with it a renewed sense of purpose and direction. So, as you face changes in your business and personal life, remember to approach them fearlessly and with an open heart. Your ability to adapt and embrace change will be a key factor in your continued success and fulfillment in this ever-evolving profession.

Don’t You Dare Quit

Friends, even in my less-than-a-decade Network Marketing career, I’ve encountered countless junctures where the path forked, presenting me with a choice: perseverance or surrender. Yet, here I stand, urging you with every fiber of my being: don’t you dare quit! This isn’t merely my slogan; rather, it’s a personal and professional lifeline that has anchored me through storms and propelled me to places I once thought were unreachable. Abandoning the journey—quitting—is a tempting option we all face, but it’s one I’ve learned to push away through unwavering determination and unbreakable resolve.

I took the word quitting out of my vocabulary, and I want you to do that, too—in all shapes and forms. Commit to never, ever, again say things like, “I’m going to quit,” or, “I guess I could quit,” or, “I could always just quit, right?” Because if you entertain those thoughts, they linger in the back of your mind like a permanent plan “B,” taking your focus off of your goals.

And before we go further, I’m not talking about stopping the pursuit of something that no longer serves you; this is about refusing to give up on your dreams, your potential, and the essence of who you are and who you’re meant to be. I’m also not telling you to avoid a strategic pivot—because while quitting on yourself is a surrender, pivoting is an informed choice to embrace change. Do you see the differences?

While we’re clarifying the definition further, I want to focus on a form of quitting I call micro-quitting: the tiny quits you commit to yourself or your business that add up to a major quit in the end. This one is sneaky, something that creeps up on you over a period of time and blindsides you in the end.

In fact, maybe you’ve experienced it before: It’s Saturday afternoon and you need to make a follow-up call to someone really interested in your business, but there’s also that new Netflix series you’ve been wanting to binge-watch. So maybe you push the call and spend your day on the couch. Or perhaps it’s a training your upline told you about that was scheduled for a Sunday night. Sunday? Nah. So you just didn’t show up. 

Maybe over the next thirty days, you micro-quit every other day by not showing up or not prioritizing your business. Well—in thirty days or less, you’ll likely look back and wonder, “Where did my team go? What happened to my business? What happened to my paycheck?”

Don’t let this happen to you. Take quitting off the table as an option. Even though you’ll see those around you quit for any number of reasons—they don’t like the industry, the product, or maybe they don’t like you—whatever the reason, let them go. Wish them well. Understand that this profession is not for everyone and commit to being a great leader who doesn’t badmouth others just because it wasn’t a good fit. It doesn’t matter that they quit, it only matters that you don’t quit. So, here are some action steps you can take to make sure you stay in the game:

1. Make a list of attributes for your ‘dream distributor.’ What are they like? What qualities do they have? How would they show up on social media? How often would they show up to team trainings? How would they recruit? List out all the details. 

2. Step up to the mirror. This is one of the hardest steps for people to take, but you must assess yourself honestly and decide whether or not you embody and display the qualities of the person you just described in the previous step. Where are you showing up, and where are you lacking?

3. Become that ideal distributor. Now, it’s time to do the things necessary to become the person you described. When you start doing the things you wish your dream person would do, you’ll attract multiple people who match the description. It’s truly amazing!

This survival skill of never quitting isn’t just about not stopping, it’s about pursuing the highest standard you can imagine for yourself and your team. Yes, the introspection and critique of oneself can be difficult, but it will be worth it in the end, when you’ve persevered and manifested a team of high achievers! You’ll grow and change and be stretched during this process, and you’ll have to sift through a ton of people to find your team. But if you do it, and if you stick with it, you’re going to see life-changing results.

Now that I’ve shared with you five pivotal strategies that have not only fueled my growth but have also become the cornerstone of my teachings to my team, let’s recap. We explored creating your own momentum, being your own cheerleader, riding the rollercoaster through its highs and lows, embracing change, and refusing to quit—even if everyone around you is leaving the profession.

This industry is difficult. Not everyone’s going to make it. So, the question I have for you now is: are you going to make it? Will you do the work to make sure you’re prepared for both the triumphs and the pitfalls? Beyond the strategies and insights, I offer you a piece of advice that transcends the practicalities of business, and that is to take God with you wherever you go.

If you don’t have God by your side through all of this, you’re never going to make it. And if you do by chance get to the top without God, you’re not going to stay there! Make sure that you are working for it as hard as you are praying for it. Ask God to give you strength, the right people, and to the ability to do the work necessary to achieve your goals.

And while God has instilled greatness in every single one of us, it’s going to be up to you to find that greatness within yourself. If you take the steps I outlined above, you’ll get there. It might sting a little to do the internal work required, but it is only because you care about the truth. It matters to you, and it demands your attention. And it might just be the very thing that can change the legacy of your business.

I want you to think big. I don’t just want you to become a leader in this profession, I want you to become a top leader in your company and in the world. There is so much potential out there for you! And there are so many people wanting to join us. Never in the history of Network Marketing has there been a better time for us to be loud about who we are, what the opportunities are, and how we can help anyone and everyone make an income from home—from their phone!

My biggest hope is that this chapter has helped you in some way. I’m all about building people up and helping them become their best selves, and I’m not afraid to give hard-hitting tips that will compel you to do the things you need to do personally to achieve the huge goals you say you want to reach. I’m cheering you on from afar, and don’t ever forget that! Good luck and God bless, ntwrkrs!