Follow Your Own Star
FOLLOW YOUR OWN STAR
To dream is to have the courage to follow your own star. It is to rise above the doubt of uncertainty, brave the fear of challenges, welcome unexpected change and shine like a beacon against all odds. This sentiment describes my journey with Arbonne perfectly because I had to learn to listen to my heart, face my fears, grow personally and shine, even though I never enjoyed being in the spotlight.
I grew up in a family of seven raised by a single mom. My father died in an accident when he was just 30 years old, leaving us with Social Security as our only income. I did not want this to happen to me. I have often asked myself, “If something happened to my husband, would we be able to live in the same house? Would my sons’ dreams of going to college be possible?” What I longed to have is the potential for financial freedom. I wanted to be home with my children and live my life around them, not around a job. Six years ago, this was all just a dream. Today, with Arbonne, it is my reality.
I love that Arbonne allows me to take care of my own needs and also share that same gift with everyone I meet. And, I have realized that my dream of being a teacher has become a reality, even though I was unable to go to college. I get to educate others and, at the same time, inspire them to do what I do. I love that I am able to fulfill my personal dream of being able to give back to others in an abundant way.
I have it heard it said that only three percent of the population has a true sales personality. Well, I can tell you that I am not one of them. So in the beginning, I struggled with the business and constantly asked myself, “Why am I doing this? I am not a salesperson.” But what I love about Arbonne is that you do not have to be a salesperson to make the most of your business! All you are doing is showing people how to re-direct the money they are already spending on skin care, to a pure, safe, beneficial product line. If they choose to take it one step further, they can earn free or discounted products, qualify for trip and gift incentives, and potentially make money! And, as women, we already have an innate ability to share what we are passionate about with our friends and family. I love that Arbonne allows me to do this, while having the potential to earn a living.
No matter what your educational or professional background may be, everyone has the same opportunity to succeed in Arbonne. I know, because I do not have a college degree, or experience in public speaking, yet I was able to grasp the concept and develop the necessary skills to run my Arbonne business. It was hard, but that is what makes it all so worth it. I have had to face my fears and it took some time, but little by little, I got better at doing it. Once I started on the path to personal growth, I began to benefit in other areas as well! It has all been well worth the journey and now my family and I have earned the potential for financial freedom, which gives us more time and money to be together and do what we could only dream about before Arbonne came into our lives. Our plan B (my Arbonne business) is quickly becoming our plan A!
Do not compare yourself with others; everyone is on their own journey and the competition should only be with yourself! Look at where you are today compared to where you were a year ago and work on what you need to work on. I have been stretched and challenged to become a better person — not better than anyone else, just better than I used to be!
This business is simple, but it is not easy! It takes discipline, motivation, vision and a no-matter-what attitude. Back this up with goals and a plan of action, and you will harness the power within yourself to transform your life and the life of everyone you touch. Success does not respond to wishes. It happens as a result of having definite plans, backed by definite desires, through constant persistence. As the saying goes, “If it is meant to be, then it is up to me!”
As you build your Arbonne business, remember that you are your own boss. You must build a team and empower them to be leaders, believe in them and help them to believe in themselves. Create a vision! Ninety percent of your success stems from your thoughts, so believe and think positive thoughts. Arbonne has a system for success already in place, plug into it. Always look forward and move ahead one step at a time; it is not an elevator ride to the top.
I have enjoyed my journey so much! As I look back, I am amazed at how this has all unfolded before my eyes. I truly believe that God had a plan. His timing, His love and His dream for me and my team are incredible! I feel so very blessed to have the leaders who are on my team. You all inspire me and have given me so much joy.
I would also like to thank my friends and family for your love, support and faith in me, my business and my dream. I treasure you all!
To dream is to understand the power of faith, trust in the capacity of a believing heart and know that life’s sweet miracles are always within reach. So, open your mind and start dreaming about the possibilities that Arbonne can provide for you and your family. You can make it happen!
By:Debbie Ropella