Category: Self-development

Mother Earth vs. Plastics

Published on by Nikken

Earth Day is April 22. It has grown to become the largest global civic event, activating billions of people from 192 countries with one purpose: to protect Mother Earth so that future generations may have a brighter future. The theme for 2024 is “Planet vs. Plastics” with the commitment to end plastics for the sake of human and planetary health. The goal is to reduce plastic production 60% by 2040.1

Plastics don’t just create tons of waste for landfills and oceans. The health ramifications of ingesting micro- and nano-plastics are jarring. Even though just how detrimental they may be has not been fully understood, evidence is growing that plastics, microplastics and their associated additive chemicals may pose serious health risks to humans and other species, but especially to babies during key developmental stages, such as crawling, teething and tasting of inanimate objects.2

Plastics have invaded our cities, towns, villages, and farmland. We use different types of plastic in every facet of industry and manufacturing: from making utensils to building cars to creating computers. Practically everything we use in the modern world has some component made of plastic. This ranges from fishing nets and furniture to microbeads found in soaps and toiletries, as well as items like tires, single-use water bottles, medical equipment, vitamin capsules, medicines, and beyond.

Perhaps most alarmingly of all, plastics and microplastics have been found bioaccumulating inside many living species, including inside us. The quantity of microplastics detectable in ambient air also depends on where you are in the world. Airborne microplastic concentrations range from 0.01 particles per cubic meter in parts of the Pacific Ocean to several thousand particles per cubic meter in cities like London and Beijing.3

Decreasing the use of plastic water bottles is such a simple way to help Mother Earth, and at least this knowledge is growing globally. Aside from the benefits of drinking PiMag® water for its alkalinity and nature-inspired filtration system, using a PiMag Sport Bottle when on-the-go and a PiMag Waterfall® at home, is an effortless way to ditch plastic water bottles. And, did you know wearing clothes made of natural fabrics, such as cotton or wool, also can help make a difference, because synthetic materials release microplastic fibers into the air?

At Nikken, we’re committed to supporting Mother Earth, so our products are inspired by nature and her timeless solutions. It’s really up to each individual to make small changes so that Mother Earth can be sustained for future generations to live well.

How do you connect to nature—are you listening to Mother Earth and her lessons?

1 https://www.earthday.org/earth-day-2024/

2,3 https://www.earthday.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/BVP-Report.pdf

How Much Do You Risk in Launching a Business?

Published on by Nikken

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.

Celebrate International Women’s Day 2024

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Amelia Earhart. Malala Yousafzai. Florence Nightingale. Madame Curie. Mother Teresa. These are famous women, pioneers in their own right. But what about so many women most of us have never heard of, because women pioneers have been overlooked throughout the years? Jackie Cochran, first woman to break the sound barrier, trained by Chuck Yeager. Nadezhda Popova who flew 852 missions for the Russians against the Nazis in World War II (Hero of the Soviet Union). Junko Tabie, Japanese mountaineer, author and teacher, first woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest and first woman to ascend the Seven Summits, climbing the highest peak on every continent. Rosalind Franklin, the chemist known for discovering the double helix structure of DNA.

The point is, women are under-acclaimed. That is in part, what International Women’s Day is all about. This year, the theme is “Inspire Inclusion.” When we inspire others to understand and value women’s inclusion, we forge a better world. And when women themselves are inspired to be included, there’s a sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment. To inspire inclusion means to celebrate diversity and empowerment on International Women’s Day 2024 and beyond.1

International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global celebration of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. Each year, March 8th serves as a powerful reminder of the progress made towards gender equality and highlights the work that still needs to be done.2

This year’s campaign theme underscores the crucial role of inclusion in achieving gender equality. It calls for action to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create environments where all women are valued and respected. Inspire Inclusion encourages everyone to recognize the unique perspectives and contributions of women from all walks of life, including those from marginalized communities.3

One of the key pillars of Inspire Inclusion is the promotion of diversity in leadership and decision-making positions. Women, especially those belonging to underrepresented groups, continue to face barriers when seeking leadership roles. By championing inclusion, organizations and communities can harness the full potential of diverse perspectives, leading to better decision-making and innovation.4

Regardless of where you live, gender equality is a fundamental human right. Advancing gender equality is critical to all areas of a healthy society, from reducing poverty to promoting the health, education, protection and the well-being of girls and boys.5

Nikken celebrates International Women’s Day every day! Won’t you join us and help to inspire inclusion?

1, 2, 3, 4 https://www.internationalwomensday.com/Missions/20202/What-does-it-mean-to-truly-inspire-inclusion

5 https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/gender-equality/

Entrepreneurs Being More

Published on by Nikken

Individuals who know Nikken are often familiar with Humans Being More (HBM), a foundational aspect of the company that focuses on self-development and ultimately, the betterment of the local and global communities. Many people attend Humans Being More workshops many times throughout their careers. Now Nikken is taking the philosophy even further with Entrepreneurs Being More (EBM).

Entrepreneurs Being More is focused on igniting business success rather than personal development, but the two are still related. Personal growth and business growth are both journeys taken over the long term, and intersect.

The main tenets of EBM are the power of collaboration, teamwork, leveraging strengths, fostering a culture of innovation and focusing on productivity. The cornerstone of business success is communication, and EBM provides tools to master this essential skill.

Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or starting to conduct your business, there’s always something new to learn in order to communicate better. Business success may hinge on your sales pitch and how adept you are in  artful persuasion. Do you come across with confidence? Are you clear and succinct? EBM addresses all of these crucial elements of business-building and more.

EBM sessions are interactive and held in a supportive environment, so participants can thrive and grow. You will sharpen your ability to articulate your ideas and to connect with others: keys to business success.

Where EBM intersects with HBM is in creating the best version of yourself. Business success is not only about profits, it is also about impacting others positively, and helping them to succeed as you yourself succeed. By developing the people skills associated with HBM and learning how to build meaningful relationships, you then can lead your business with integrity and compassion.

Chancellor of Nikken University and Director of Sales & Training Jeff Isom will be conducting EBM workshops. For details, contact Nikken Customer Service or your personal Nikken Consultant.

Do you Fix Weaknesses or Focus on Strengths?

Published on by Nikken

When you are a business owner, you have the advantage of being your own boss. You also have the pressure of making the right decisions, strategizing for business growth and often times, leading a team. It’s easy to be doing everything all the time, which means nothing gets well done.

One of the best things about network marketing is that you constantly work with a team. There are upline (those who sponsor newcomers) and downline (those you sponsor). Having a team means you inherently have a variety of perspectives and skillsets based on the backgrounds of your members. Why this is so important is because most of us tend to try to fix our weaknesses instead of capitalizing on our personal strengths. With a team, members can focus on personal strengths and complement each other—one’s weakness may well be another’s strength.

Fixing weaknesses used to be taught as opportunities for development. Research now shows that this approach is not most conducive to business-building success. Instead, contemporary research shows that focusing on personal strengths is self-empowering and therefore more likely to produce desired results. Author and motivational speaker Marcus Buckingham explains, “A strength is an activity that makes you feel strong. It is an activity where the doing of it invigorates you. Before you do it, you find yourself instinctively looking forward to it. While you are doing it you don’t struggle to concentrate, but instead you become so immersed that time speeds up and you lose yourself in the present moment. And after you are finished doing it, you feel authentic, connected to the best parts of who you really are.”1

Whether you are starting a business in 2024 or expanding, assess your approach and see if you are capitalizing on your personal strengths. Consider choosing potential partners based on their complementary strengths to cover your weaknesses, and help your team members do the same.

1 https://www.tmbc.com/

New Year Message from CEO Luis Kasuga

Published on by Nikken

Dear Nikken Global Wellness Community,

2023 has been a journey of triumphs and challenges. Despite everything, we stayed together. These experiences added wisdom and knowledge to strengthen our legacy. The direction is clear: the happiness of human beings and their environment is in our hands. We have the tools to reshape our communities, mend bridges, and nurture gardens of hope. Let us join hands, spark our collective imaginations, and create a future where happiness blooms for all.

Your journey becomes ours. As you chart your course, we’ll be your compass, your map, your cheering squad. We’ll offer tools, guidance, and a community of kindred spirits, all united in the pursuit of dreams that benefit yourselves and the world around you.

Here are some things you can do to make the most of the holiday season:

Spend time with loved ones. Make time for the people who are most important to you.

Give back to your community. There are many ways to volunteer your time or donate to a worthy cause.

Practice gratitude. Take some time to reflect on all the things you are grateful for.

Focus on your well-being. Make sure to take care of yourself physically and mentally.

Together, let’s make 2024 a year where dreams rise like a symphony, harmonizing individual purpose with the well-being of all. Your happiness is our mission, and your journey is our shared adventure.

Imagine waking up each morning, exhilarated by a vision so potent it fuels your every step. Ask yourself: what ignites that spark within you? What whispers possibilities for a life both fulfilling and purposeful? Then, delve deeper. Consider not just your own fulfillment but the ripples your dreams would send outward. Are they ripples of inspiration, joy and harmony with the world? If so, then dive in with conviction, knowing we’ll be there, hand in hand, as you navigate the currents.

So, dear Nikkenites, don’t wait. Ask those crucial questions, ignite your vision, and step into the new year with unwavering resolve. We’ll be here every step of the way, ready to witness your triumph and celebrate your every victory.

Best wishes for these holidays. May your faith and beliefs guide you to many moments of joy, peace, and the deepest connections with your loved ones. I hope you have a wonderful holiday season!

Your friend,

Luis Kasuga

President & CEO

Time is of the Essence

Published on by Nikken

Since the pandemic of 2020, so many people from around the world have opted to quit the 9-5 grind. Those who are able to work remotely have stayed on the job more than those required to work on site. Being your own boss has never been more appealing, and one of the popular options is to become an online retailer, which fits neatly into the network marketing niche. But what draws someone into trying out business ownership that involves dedication to direct selling, online sales and recruitment?

Time is the biggest commodity a business owner has and time is also what the 9-5 employee doesn’t have. No one understands the importance of freedom of time more than the person who doesn’t have it. Once time becomes available, managing it well is crucial for business success. In fact, managing time properly may well be the key to creating business profits for any business owner.

Successful business owners prioritize their tasks and have clear cut goals with deadlines. A daily, weekly and monthly checklist helps to keep you on track, but being overly driven to check off those items can be detrimental to managing time well. In other words, managing time requires flexibility as well as discipline, not just dogged determination. It’s helpful to prioritize tasks by importance and amount of time required to accomplish them. In general, if you can complete the most urgent items first, you will have a less stressful mindset. However, as situations arise when operating a business, be open to recognizing important actions that require immediate attention.

Rule of thumb? If something important comes up and only takes a few minutes to do, by all means get it out of the way rather than allowing it to sit on the checklist. Remember, the to-do list is not set in stone but be disciplined enough to get it done, even if there are a few detours along the way!

Giving and Receiving Requires Balance

Published on by Nikken

Many of us were taught from an early age to be of service—parents teach children to help with tasks around the home, to walk the dog, babysit the younger ones, and so on. There might be an allowance earned, and in those cases, the child learns to receive a token for services rendered.

Each individual reacts differently to the many forms of giving and receiving. Young children have to be taught to give as receiving comes naturally to them when they are at the stage of being dependent for just about everything. As they grow older, the tables turn and they typically are reinforced with the importance of giving in the forms of helping, serving or gifting.

Giving is upheld as positive behavior, part of altruism and generosity; however, authentic giving does not expect anything in return. It comes from a place of abundance and joy, of having more than enough to share. Receiving takes a back seat and this may result in the learned behavior of too much giving. When there is a feeling of debt, the imbalance of not receiving enough occurs. That is why it is equally important to learn to receive with grace, gratitude and true acceptance—that is, to receive without guilt and the feeling of having to repay the giver.

One way to rectify an imbalance between giving and receiving is the concept of paying it forward. You can’t always reciprocate equally with someone who is able to give you more than you have, but there is bound to be a time when you can be the giver to someone who has less. You are simply contributing to the cycle of kindness and the spirit of sharing.

There is another aspect of gracious receiving that is often overlooked. Not being able to receive robs the giver of the pleasure you yourself receive when you are the one doing the giving! And, it makes the giver feel misunderstood and unappreciated. Gracious receiving is a way of allowing others to show how much they care and to experience your own self-worth.

Just as “it takes two to tango,” it takes two to give and receive. Creating a balance between the two requires conscious intention, but it’s well worth effort. If you don’t feel joyful when giving, it’s a sign you’re depleted and imbalanced. You can consciously give yourself self-care to replenish your own tank and do some receiving, which can take the form of asking and accepting help!

Think of giving and receiving in this way: it can be as simple as words of encouragement, such as “I know you can do it.” “I believe in you.” “Let me give you a hand with that.” The recipient graciously accepts with “thank you!” We can make balanced giving and receiving a part of our total wellness lifestyle!

‘Tis the season of gifting, and if you want to present the ones you care about with gifts inspired by nature, Nikken invites you to take a look at the 2023 Gift Guide. The special offers extend through the end of the year.

How Do You Show Gratitude?

Published on by Nikken

Cultural differences account for the many ways in how people show gratitude. Professor Jonathan Tudge of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro is considered an expert on the subject. He and his colleagues have published a series of studies showing how children develop a sense of gratitude in seven culturally diverse countries.

The children were aged seven to 14 and answered in three categories of gratitude: verbal  which is spoken, concrete which offers a token gift, and connective which is relational. Children in China and South Korean tended to favor connective gratitude. Those in the U.S. leaned toward concrete gratitude, and Guatemalan kids were partial to verbal gratitude.1 According to Professor Tudge, connective gratitude which cultivates the development of a relationship, goes beyond words or gifts of thanks. He calls it the most authentic form of gratitude.

Cultural values, parenting practices and education may each play a role. Autonomous (individualist) cultures such as that of North America, teach children to be more independent and self-directed. Heteronomous (collectivist) cultures such as that of Asia teach duty and obedience to elders as well as honoring others. This could account for why Americans tend toward verbal and concrete gratitude while Asians focus on connectivity and developing relationships rather than valuing individuality and separateness. Giving and receiving help is an expected part of daily life for members of collectivist cultures rather than an uplifting surprise for those from individualist cultures.2

Who you choose to show gratitude to also may depend on cultural influences. For example, Southeast Indians were more likely to show appreciation to people outside of their families—the type of people they might feel obligated to repay. This sense of indebtedness is found much less in autonomous cultures. On the opposite end of the spectrum, the Inuit do not require an expression of gratitude after receiving meat from a hunt.

According to Professor Tudge, gratitude is ultimately a skill that strengthens relationships and arises when we pay more attention to the gifts our connections bring us. He says that means thinking about gratitude less like a good feeling to boost happiness and more like paying it forward with kindness, making it a way of life and being a good human being.3

During this season of Thanksgiving, consider who you want to connect with more deeply. And if you want to show concrete gratitude, Nikken invites you to take a look at the 2023 Gift Guide with special offers that extend through the end of the year.

1,2, 3 https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_cultural_differences_shape_your_gratitude

Do You Know Who You Are?

Published on by Nikken

Who you are or your sense of identity, refers to your perception of the collection of characteristics that define you.1 Your abilities, beliefs, morals, likes and dislikes and everything that motivates or demotivates you, all contribute to your sense of who you are.

People who are clear about these many aspects of themselves generally have a strong sense of who they are, while those struggling to identify these characteristics may have a less defined sense of self.

Your identity affects your relationships, your work and your overall emotional health. When there isn’t a clear sense of self, you may find it difficult to make decisions, interact in group settings and in a nutshell, know what you want.

Sometimes groups help answer the question, “Who am I?” Membership in groups provides a sense of belonging, a social role which helps in identity. The “me” in who you are transforms into the “we” of belonging to a group. Not everyone enjoys group activities, but as the saying goes, “No man is an island.” At some point in time, you have to interact, develop relationships and bonds.

According to psychologists, groups usually outperform individuals; however, the other side of the coin is that groups tend to be underachievers. For example, a single person working on a paper will get less done in an hour than four students tackling the paper as a joint project. On the other hand, people exert less effort when working in a group than when working alone.2 Psychologists also found that people trying to generate creative new ideas in group brainstorming sessions usually put in less effort and are less productive than those creating new ideas individually.3

Whether you are a loner or more of the gregarious type, impacts your sense of who you are. Even people who choose to live separate and apart from others, may join groups to meet their psychological and social needs.4

As your sense of self evolves, ask what brings you happiness, what is your purpose in life and how do you live accordingly? Do your choices and decisions reflect your own true interests or someone else’s?

No matter how gregarious you are, alone time helps you get to know yourself better. So, be a team player, but also be independent. And if you’re interested in finding out more about who you are together with like-minded individuals, check out Humans Being More training online with Jeff Isom!

1 https://www.healthline.com/health/sense-of-self

2, 3, 4 https://nobaproject.com/modules/the-psychology-of-groups