My Unconventional Journey to MLM Success Part 2: From Debt to Success

In the last article, I shared my journey from leaving home at the age of 9 to living as a monk, becoming a Taekwondo instructor, and cultivating a lifestyle rooted in yoga philosophy and spiritual values. Now, let me take you through how I discovered multi-level marketing (MLM) and how it became a transformative chapter in my life.

As I got older, I realized I needed money, and this realization became a defining moment. At one point, I was responsible for causing a close friend and spiritual mentor to lose $10,000—a significant sum for me at the time. I was determined to repay him, but I had no idea how.

Up until then, my view of money was naive. I thought it was “the root of all evil” and never tried too hard to earn it. However, I came to understand that, like many things in life—money, technology, etc.—they are neutral energies. It’s how you use them that matters.

The burning question remained: how could I make enough money to repay my friend? I hadn’t even graduated elementary school, let alone university. I learned to be resourceful, trying various endeavors. Some were more successful than others, but none were sustainable or profitable enough. I needed a regular income.
 

A Turning Point: Discovering MLM Through Faith

At this crossroads, I turned to prayer—not asking God for money, but sharing my concern as one would with a close friend: “What should I do, Lord?” Shortly after, I met VJ. That was 28 years ago. He introduced me to a business model that I quickly warmed to—it was MLM.

I’d heard of MLM companies before and, immaturely, dismissed them as scams or sales schemes. But VJ was different. He explained the power of the multiplier effect and how MLM isn’t about selling products but sharing and coaching. This resonated deeply with me.

In my first year, I earned $20,000—a significant amount for me then. I repaid my friend and realized I was in business. I was pumped!

Many people think I’m a great businessman, but honestly, I’m not. This business was gifted to me. All I had to do was be myself and genuinely share with others how this model could help them achieve financial independence.
 

A Life-Changing Partnership

VJ and I became close, and eventually, he offered me a partnership. I was stunned. Why me? I had no capital, little experience, and no formal education. But VJ valued principles—honesty, trustworthiness, and integrity—qualities he couldn’t buy or hire.

I’ll never forget my first MLM conference with VJ. He introduced the guest speaker with great enthusiasm, and to my shock, that guest speaker was me. I panicked but quickly prayed for guidance. The word “talking” came to mind, and I used it as an acronym:

• T for Timing—everything requires the right timing.
• A for Appreciation—especially for the person you’re speaking to.
• L for Listening—truly hearing the other person.
• K for Knowledge—sharing something meaningful.
• I for Integrity—being genuine and trustworthy.
• N for Need—identifying what others need.
• G for Giving—offering value or help.

I spoke for two hours, entirely spontaneously, and received a standing ovation. Even VJ admitted he was shocked. That experience taught me the value of exceptional circumstances—and an exceptional coach—in drawing out the best in someone.

Since then, I’ve never looked back.

My path has been built on principles: truthfulness, compassion, cleanliness, and austerity. I don’t know what the future holds, but I walk with the Lord. Whether I face success or failure, I remain grounded in my eternal relationship with Him.