Category: Business

Beyond Resolutions: From Purpose to Planning for 2026

Published on by Nikken

The dictionary defines a resolution as “a firm decision to do or not to do something.” As we reach the end of each year, the question of resolutions inevitably comes up, unless you are someone who has decided not to entertain the prospect of resolving and failing. According to research, about 88% of people who make New Year’s resolutions fail, despite 52% of them feeling confident they will follow through.”1

Part of the reason for this high failure rate is because the resolutions are made without a concrete goal or purpose. If a resolution is made due to previous errors, out of guilt or regret, it may well be doomed to fail. On the other hand, some resolutions are so ambitious that they are not realistic.

To heighten the possibility of success in meeting resolutions, researchers recommend having a clear purpose for change and then planning realistically how to implement it. In other words, why do you want to make the resolution, what is it precisely, and how can you make it happen? For example, many people resolve to lose weight; however, that is not a well-defined resolution. Instead, you could resolve to lose weight by going on a mile-walk five days a week and incorporating at least three salads into every 10 meals. Those are precise goals that spell out how to make the resolution happen.

Let’s take that same example and move to the planning or strategy stage. If you are going to walk a mile five days a week, decide which five days they will be. Also plan ahead what time those walks will take place and on which days of the week. A wall calendar is a great tool to use! Are you going solo or is a walk-buddy or family member included? Do you have a dog who would love to go with you? Plan it and do it!

Going back to the example of eating at least three salads out of every 10 meals, plan to have plenty of vegetables on hand. When will you go grocery shopping? What are your favorite veggies? The more you like them, the better your chances are of staying on the regimen. For example, if greens aren’t your favorite but you need to eat more of them for their chlorophyll and mineral content, be sure to have complementary veggies on hand so you can combine and adjust flavors. As your body adapts to nutrient-dense foods, you will start craving the right foods instead of those with empty calories. That’s a plan, not just a resolution.

A study found that writing down goals and sharing your progress with a friend led to a 76% goal achievement versus only 43% when unwritten.2 This shows how important it is to be clear and focused. What you see written down makes resolutions more concrete, and likewise, writing down your goals and plans give you a “cheat sheet” to refer to. Telling your results to a friend or family member is a no-brainer—we all like approval and there’s nothing more enjoyable than sharing good news. And if your confidante has similar resolutions, you can reinforce each other’s efforts and celebrate together.

In summary, make your resolutions, define them clearly, set clear-cut goals, plan the details of how to implement your goals, daily and weekly, write it all down! You have almost a month to plan and finesse your resolutions for the new year! Happy December!

1 https://anthropedia.org/articles/new-years-resolutions

2 https://holdingyourfeettothefire.com/goals-for-2026/

The Gift of Wellness Technology is the Best Gift of All

Published on by Nikken

What do you think of when you see the term “wellness technology”? Do apps come to mind? Meditation guidance, sleep sounds, white noise, heartbeat monitors, mood rings, step counters—gadgets galore—it seems like there’s a new one on the market every day!

Our founder started Nikken by producing Kenko Insoles. A single product that combines the wisdom of nature with magnetic technology led to the creation of many more. This year, Nikken celebrates 50 years of sharing advanced products with the world. Some notable innovations include the Kenko Sleep System, Kenko MagDuo®, KenkoTherm® wraps, the Kenko PowerChip®, Kenko PowerMini®, the Kenko Precision Set, Kenko PowerBand®, Kenko® Jewelry, the KenkoGround® and more.

As diverse as Nikken products are, they share one thing in common, just like the original insoles: They are inspired by mother nature and utilize state-of-the-art technology to produce balance, calm and relaxation, both physically and mentally. Kenko product lines fall under the categories of magnetic, ceramic reflective and grounding technologies. Each of these technologies enhance health and wellness. Every one of these Nikken products works to enhance empowered living—how often you use them is up to you, but consistency brings the best results.

Think about it: magnetic, grounding and ceramic reflective technologies are all forms of wellness technology! During a time of global turmoil, peace of mind is the one gift that everyone will welcome this season. Peace of mind will bring heightened focus, clarity, creativity and balance into a lifestyle filled with purpose and mindfulness. That is the foundation of empowered living.

A gift of wellness technology, which you can individualize to each person on your gift list, will show just how much you care. Because wellness technology can help transform daily habits, they ultimately may help your recipients live happier and healthier lives—what better way is there to show your care and consideration?

There are still a few days left to take advantage of our Black Friday specials. The more you buy, the more you save, and you may also get free ground shipping. Contact your local Nikken Consultant or call Nikken Customer Service to find out how!

Being Part of a Community Supports Well-Being and Business Growth

Published on by Nikken

The Oxford Dictionary defines “community” as “a group of people living in the same place or having a particular characteristic in common.” The secondary definition is “a feeling of fellowship with others, as a result of sharing common attitudes, interests and goals.” If John Donne was correct and “no man is an island,” then it makes sense that being part of a community supports overall well-being and the group’s business growth.

From the time you’re born, your relationships help you learn to navigate the world. You learn how to interact with others, express yourself, conduct everyday health habits, and be a part of different communities from those around you. Positive social habits can help you build support systems and stay healthier mentally and physically.1

Being an active member of a community creates a sense of belonging, which results in a positive state of mind, important to overall well-being. As the population ages, being part of a community helps deter feelings of isolation and loneliness. Being connected to others also helps prevent a nagging sense of anxiety and stress.

Communities are about giving and taking; the more you do that, the more you share with others and the more likely you are to build meaningful relationships, which can develop quickly among like-minded people who share common interests, shared goals, or experiences. By networking with other community members, you can make new friends, help others, or even find strategic partnerships, opportunities, and clients.2 Being part of a community is essential to well-being but also the key to business growth, regardless of whether you are a business owner or an employee in a school, store, corporation or service provider.

Living with uncertainty has become the norm. This has made it more important than ever to have a strong support network in place.3 One of the main lessons learned with the pandemic is that having a community, even when it is online rather than in person, can help fight feelings of hopelessness and provide a sense of security. Community benefits go two ways: you support others as they support you. Giving engenders a sense of usefulness and receiving produces gratitude.

From now until November 30th, Nikken is offering Black Friday Month specials. Contact your local Nikken Consultant or Nikken Customer Service to find out how to access free ground shipping and up to 20% in discounts.

1 https://www.nih.gov/health-information/your-healthiest-self-wellness-toolkits/social-wellness-toolkit

2, 3 https://gcestrategicconsulting.com/blog/reasons-to-join-community

Gut Health Matters: Supporting Your Gut Barrier for Overall Wellness

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An Educational Look at Gut Permeability and Why It’s Worth Your Attention

Imagine pouring a glass of water from your tap and seeing it cloudy with debris. Would you drink it? Most of us wouldn’t. Instead, many rely on advanced water filtration systems to purify and enhance the quality of what we consume.

Now, think of your gut barrier as a filtration system for your body. It plays a key role in supporting digestion and overall wellness by selectively allowing nutrients to pass into your bloodstream while helping regulate exposure to other particles. Some researchers suggest that when this system is under stress, it may become more permeable—an area of growing scientific interest. While the term “leaky gut” is sometimes used to describe this phenomenon, it is not a recognized medical condition. Instead, ongoing research is exploring how gut permeability may be influenced by lifestyle factors and how maintaining gut health may contribute to overall well-being.

Just as you wouldn’t compromise on clean water, supporting your gut barrier could be a proactive step toward feeling your best.

What Influences Gut Barrier Health?

Think of your gut barrier as a tightly woven mesh, composed of specialized cells that regulate what enters the bloodstream. When functioning optimally, this barrier allows properly digested nutrients to be absorbed while maintaining balance in the digestive system. However, certain lifestyle factors may challenge this balance, according to some studies:

•Diets high in processed foods or unhealthy fats

•Ongoing stress or poor sleep quality

•Frequent use of antibiotics or certain medications

•High intake of alcohol or sugar

Some research suggests that these factors may affect proteins (such as Claudin-3 and Zonulin-1) that help maintain the gut lining’s integrity, potentially leading to increased permeability. While more studies are needed, maintaining a balanced diet and adopting healthy lifestyle habits may support gut function and digestive wellness.

Signs Your Gut Might Need Support

Gut health plays a vital role in overall well-being, but subtle signs of imbalance can sometimes go unnoticed. Consider the following:

Do you experience occasional bloating or digestive discomfort? Do you sometimes feel fatigued or experience brain fog? Are you finding it challenging to maintain energy levels and a balanced metabolism?

If you answered yes to any of these, your gut may benefit from extra care. While maintaining gut health through diet, lifestyle, and possibly supplements may help, it is always best to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Final Thoughts: Caring for Your Gut Like You Care for Your Water

Would you knowingly drink unfiltered, contaminated water? Probably not. Similarly, prioritizing gut health may contribute to overall wellness, as it plays a vital role in nutrient absorption and digestion.

While research continues to explore gut permeability and its broader implications, one thing remains clear—a balanced diet, stress management, and mindful lifestyle choices can all contribute to gut health.

Explore ways to support your gut health today—because just as you wouldn’t compromise on clean drinking water, nurturing your gut barrier is a step toward feeling your best.

Suggested Further Reading: · Groschwitz KR, Hogan SP (July 2009). “Intestinal barrier function: molecular regulation and disease pathogenesis”. The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. 124 (1): 3–20, quiz 21–2.

· Bischoff SC, Barbara G, Buurman W, Ockhuizen T, Schulzke JD, Serino M, Tilg H, Watson A, Wells JM (Nov 18, 2014). “Intestinal permeability–a new target for disease prevention and therapy”. BMC Gastroenterology (Review). 14: 189. · Canakis, Andrew; Haroon, Mustafa; Weber, H. Christian (2020). “Irritable bowel syndrome and gut microbiota”. Current Opinion in Endocrinology, Diabetes & Obesity. 27: 28–35.

· Tsung-Ru Wu et al., 2019. Gut commensal Parabacteroides goldsteinii plays a predominant role in the anti-obesity effects of polysaccharides isolated from Hirsutella sinensis. Gut, 68(2):248-262

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. The information provided does not constitute medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat any condition. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

About the Author:

Dr. Rob is a nutrition and fitness expert with a PhD from The Ohio State University. He has led innovation in dietary supplements and functional foods for top wellness brands and now serves as Chief Science Officer for TCI BIOTECH US & Americas. An author of four books and over 100 research papers, he works globally with athletes and health professionals to optimize performance and well-being.

Women’s Equality Then & Now

Published on by Nikken

In 1971, the Joint Resolution of Congress designated August 26 of each year as Women’s Equality Day in the United States. August 26 is the anniversary date of the certification of the Nineteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which granted women the right to vote in 1920. The campaign for woman suffrage was long and hard—Black and women of other minorities still were not allowed to vote until much farther into the 20th century, due to discriminatory state voting laws. 

Now Women’s Equality Day is recognized as a day of national celebration. It commemorates the women’s suffrage movement and the work to secure and expand equal rights today. Women who are citizens of the U.S. vote in every state, regardless of cultural and religious groups they belong to.

Equality is not just about the right to vote. Currently, many organizations continue to fight for equality. There is still wage disparity. It is the most crucial inequality in the workplace and applies to virtually every industry. Even women athletes win smaller prizes for competing in the same sports as men.

The inequality in pay leads to another inequity: The Gender Equity Policy Institute has found that women, particularly women of color and single mothers, are more likely to spend more than a third of their income on housing. This is more than what economists and financial advisors consider reasonable to make other ends meet.1 Because women are more burdened by housing, they are more exposed to homelessness.

Gender-based violence continues to be prevalent. Worldwide, 35 percent of women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence from a partner or non-partner.2 Gender-based violence also occurs during war and in political situations.

There is still an education gap. In many countries, women are not allowed to pursue advanced education or even limited education. This is changing and in North America, there are even some large cities where more women are obtaining advanced education than men.

There is a general lack of access to affordable and adequate healthcare for all, but especially for women and those is underserved communities. Before 1993, women were rarely included in clinical trials, so even now, the medical field is not clear on how well many drugs and devices work on women due to gender bias. Women therefore experience adverse reactions to medications at twice the rate of men.3

Women have come a long way in obtaining equality but still have a long way to go. The Global Wellness Community is inclusive and welcomes one and all. Let’s spread the word and help sisterhood around the world.

1 https://www.latimes.com/california/newsletter/2022-08-19/california-politics-housing-crisis-womens-issue-ca-politics

2 https://www.codehergirls.org/post/women-are-still-fighting-for-these-basic-rights-in-2021

3 https://www.aamc.org/news/why-we-know-so-little-about-women-s-health

On the Dogged Path to Success

Published on by Nikken

International Dog Day is August 26, and this is the perfect time to consider why most of us love dogs and what we can learn from them! Whether you’re an entrepreneur, homemaker, perennial student or budding philanthropist, you can become the best version of yourself by emulating your canine friend!

Dogs live in the present. They may recall the past but they focus on what is right here, right now. This way of life allows you to wholeheartedly devote energy to the activities at hand. When you live in the present, you are not blaming yourself or others for mistakes made in the past and fearing for what may come in the future. Instead, you are fully participating and making things happen, now.

Dogs thrive on routine. Eat, walk, sleep. Eat, play, sleep. In human terms, stick to a schedule. This requires discipline but it keeps you on task, whether you’re managing a household or building a business. There will always be needed breaks to the routine/schedule, but then a dog’s natural instinct is to return to the routine. At work, maintain a solid but flexible schedule and stay with it consistently.

Dogs are pack animals. In the wild, each member of the pack stays watchful and knows its  role. There may be competition but the alpha lays down the ground rules and usually has proven to be the most capable to lead. An alpha dog is brave and strategic and will do everything to take care of the pack. When parenting unruly teenagers or managing a sluggish sales team, be an alpha dog: be fair, supportive and clear with your directions—always lead by example and take of your family/organization.

Dogs are honest. What you see is really what you get. There is no pretense or facade. In human terms, honesty means being true to yourself and being authentic. Bosses who are transparent and honest inevitably create the most productive and loyal teams. Parents who don’t hide the truth from their kids create future adults who become their friends.

Dogs are curious. All that sniffing and digging is going to help them figure out what’s up! An important part of a dog walk is the smelling. It’s a sensory delight that elevates a dog’s mood. Have you noticed how children are so curious because there are so many things that are new to them? Grownups who keep this curiosity and are open to possibilities seem to become innovators, so don’t be a “know-it-all,” be a lifelong student who is willing to learn.

Nikken is celebrating 35 years in North America this October 18 and 19 in beautiful Long Beach, California. If you’re curious and want to experience what total health and wellness is about the Nikken way, early bird tickets are available through the end of August via our online shopping cart. Or, contact your local Nikken distributor.

Smart Finances

Published on by Nikken

When you practice Smart Finances, you understand how money management works. It’s not just about earning money, but also about creating ample savings and growing your assets. In other words, if you understand how to earn money, do you know how to hold on to it and make it grow?

Smart Finances requires that you plan not only for immediate financial needs or wants, but also for the long-term. And, Smart Finances may require you to be open to alternative ways to generate additional income.

Businessman and author Paul J. Meyer first described SMART goals in his 2003 book, Attitude Is Everything: If You Want to Succeed Above and Beyond. SMART criteria are five characteristics that help make goals effective and meaningful.

• Specific: Defines what you want to accomplish, who is involved, where, when, and why.

• Measurable: Includes indicators and metrics that can track progress.

• Achievable: Ensures the goal is realistic and attainable, and that you have the necessary skills, resources, and time to accomplish it.

• Relevant: Determines if the goal aligns with broader goals and is important.

• Time-bound: Sets a deadline for accomplishing the goal.

Once you have identified your goals using the SMART criteria, the next step is to create a plan of action. Here is an example of a SMART financial goal: “I am increasing my income by $3,000 within the next six months. I can do this by obtaining a raise at my job, by getting a higher paying position, or by working more at my home-based side hustle.”

This smart financial goal is specific and is measurable by dollar amount—$3,000 within six months translates to $500 each month, which is realistic and not a “dream goal.” It is relevant, aligning with the goal of earning more money. And it is time-bound—although there are six months to achieve the goal, it is stated in a positive and present way, not as a vague or future possibility.

Post-pandemic, many people decided they liked working from home and were willing to make sacrifices to continue doing so. This may have required quitting a job, finding a permanently remote position, working in a hybrid role or committing to entrepreneurship. No matter where or how you work, it’s always prudent to live with smart finances. When you choose to join Nikken, we are here to support you every step of the way—whether it’s your side hustle or new business endeavor.

Natural vs. Synthetic: You Decide

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In our daily lives, we interact with an extensive array of materials, each with its unique characteristics and applications. Whether it’s the clothes we wear, the buildings we live in, or the devices we use, the materials around us can be broadly categorized into two primary groups: natural vs synthetic.1

Examples of natural materials, which are derived from the environment, include wood, stone, silk, leather and cotton. These materials are found in nature and not man-made.

Synthetic materials are derived largely from human intelligence and creativity, mainly after the industrial revolution through the wide use of increasingly sophisticated technology. Plastics, composites, and artificial polymers are just a few examples of these engineered marvels.2

Are natural materials better than synthetic ones?

Here are some of the advantages of natural materials:

•           They are generally considered more environmentally-friendly than their synthetic counterparts, because they tend to be renewable and biodegradable, which reduces their footprint.

•           They are often more compatible with the human body. For example, natural fibers in clothing, organic materials in devices, and natural ingredients in skin care are less likely to cause allergic reactions—this is known as being biocompatible.

•           They vary in quality, texture and appearance due to natural variances found in nature. This makes them somewhat unique and exclusive, adding aesthetic value.

Here are some of the advantages of synthetic materials:

•           They are created in laboratories and factories, which are environments that are more easily controlled than nature.

•           They can be manufactured to be consistent and uniform in size, shape, appearance, etc. This consistency helps meet the precise requirements of different industries. Examples include plastics, nylon, polyester and many polymers.

•           They may be more durable than natural materials. With man-made specifications in mind, they can be manufactured to be more long-lasting and easier to mass-produce, rendering them more cost-effective than sourcing natural alternatives.

Both natural and synthetic materials have their own pros and cons. Your choice depends on the specific usage and your requirements for cost, durability, functionality, sustainability and eco-friendliness.

Nikken is inspired by nature, and our researchers and product developers try to incorporate as many sustainable, natural and organic materials as possible. We also embrace science and formulate using state-of-the-art technologies and facilities.

1, 2 https://europlas.com.vn/en-US/blog-1/natural-vs-synthetic-materials-what-are-the-differences

Differing Opinions May Lead to Better Team Decisions

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The importance of respecting differing opinions should not be underestimated. We are all unique with different perspectives which contribute to the strength of any team. It might sound counterintuitive, but having differing opinions on your team can actually create a more cohesive work environment.1 When each team member is treated fairly with every opinion seen as valid and valued, everyone can work together towards the same goal.

Imagine a team where everyone thinks alike, where there is no room for diverse opinions. While it may seem like a harmonious environment, it can actually limit the team’s potential for growth and innovation. When everyone has the same opinion, it can create a tunnel vision effect, where potential risks and alternative solutions are overlooked.

By having diverse opinions, teams can identify blind spots and consider alternative approaches that may have otherwise been missed. It is through the clash of differing opinions that new ideas are born, and existing ideas are challenged and refined.2

Of course, differing opinions can grow heated when not properly managed. There are basic steps that can help foster differing views as opportunities for growth and innovation, rather than as obstacles.

•          Create an environment of open communication. The entire team should be given carte blanche to express individual thoughts and ideas. In other words, team meetings should be safe spaces to share rather than to compete.

•          Be aware of introvert vs. extrovert personalities on the team. Make sure the extroverts don’t take up all the time in team meetings. The introverts may require a bit of prodding, but they often have great ideas that go unheard.

•          The most effective team leaders practice active listening. Make this something the entire team participates in. The mere act of listening respectfully to others can help create a mutually appreciative environment, regardless of the differences in perspectives.

•          Ask for constructive feedback. This becomes organic when the team functions cohesively with different perspectives seen as beneficial to the overall goals.

•          Share recognition of team members as a whole. Regardless of which “idea” serves as the springboard for new decisions, the whole team deserves credit for reaching a consensus.

Team unity and collaboration are the goals for healthy debates and varying perspectives. The same holds true for family discussions and strategic planning in any type of groups. Open- mindedness and encouraging individuals to speak up while respecting everyone else in the group is a great way to role model inclusivity for kids and peers.

1 https://cmdrecruitment.com/embracing-different-opinions-in-your-team/#:~:text=Differing%20opinions%20builds%20respect&text=Respect%20shows%20that%20we%20recognise,making%20the%20team%20more%20effective.

2 https://www.urbanchallenger.com/blog/how-to-resolve-with-differing-opinions-in-a-team

How Much Do You Risk in Launching a Business?

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Entrepreneurs face known risks when they take on a new business venture. There’s the obvious financial risk. There’s also the volatile economy to consider when launching a business. Market trends can be erratic and what’s good one day can pose a risk on another. What about competitors? Are you looking at unique products or services or trying to cash in on a trend?

So many businesses had to move entirely to the digital market since the pandemic but brick and mortar outlets are gradually making a comeback. Many businesses will permanently be hybrid going forward, so that is something newly minted entrepreneurs need to factor in to their risk analyses.

A network marketing business relies on a different set of parameters and can offer entrepreneurs a shot at business ownership without as much risk as with traditional ventures. There’s no overhead, as anyone can work from wherever they live. A reputable company you sign up with should provide the systems and the technology needed. There’s no need for outside investors, and you choose the company that offers products or services that match your interests.

Aside from a one-time start-up fee, sometimes called a registration cost, there usually is not much cash required to launch a network marketing business. You can earn from retail sales right away without carrying inventory. You also can earn from commissions when you become an “upline” to those you register as your “downline” who generate retail sales. In a nutshell, the more product you and your group retail, the more you earn.

Network marketing is not for everyone; however, if you like working for yourself as an entrepreneurial business owner, forging your own hours, talking to people, making new friends, giving meet-and-greet parties, and you have the luxury of time to build up a team of like-minded people, this is a pretty low-risk way to become a business owner.

Interested? Contact your local Nikken distributor or call our Customer/Distributor Services. It could be the start of something amazing.