IBO’s are Free Labor

 One of those metal and canvas roofed gazebos that can be purchased at a department shop for $100 was in the backyard of the Platinum's home. Although his may have cost a little extra because it had mosquito netting walls, it was well worth it.

One that appeared similar to the one in the Platinum's backyard was depicted in a photo I found on the internet, which you can see here.

We had a significant wind storm one night, and his canopy went up a few houses down the street in various bits, indicating that they weren't properly anchoring or weighing down the structure. So he went out and got one of those wooden gazebo kits from Lowes or perhaps another retailer. However, I believe he purchased it from a store where I have seen similar kits. It was roughly $2000, and I thought to myself, "Holy sh*t, can't you just buy one already manufactured for that price?" I guess I don't know much about construction and construction materials because I don't work in the field.

So now it's time to put together the pile of excrement that is Platinum. Normally, you'd expect him to call a carpenter or someone who has previous experience putting boards together. The IBOs are then asked to come over and assist him instead of sending out a call to the general public. Ambot snatched my hammer out of the junk cabinet and was giddy with anticipation as he prepared to go over to serve his Platinum. As a result, a small group of IBOs eager to please their Platinum clients showed there. And, to their credit, after they had it all put together, it actually looked pretty good. Not too shabby for some free labour.

Another time, the Platinum decides he'd want to convert a corner of their bedroom into a master bathroom, and the Platinum agrees. Ambot knows someone who performs renovations, and he arranges for him to come over and give him a price estimate. Unfortunately, I don't know how much the quote was for. A bathtub, sink, and cupboard, a toilet, 2x4s and drywall to frame in a room, tile or linoleum for the floor, and then the electrical and plumbing. On the low end, supplies can cost two or three thousand dollars. Depending on whether you want one of those toilets that closes automatically or a Roman tub for two, I think the sky is the limit. On top of that, there's the matter of labour. So, for the sake of argument, let us assume that labour costs are around the same, i.e., around $5000 or higher for a bathroom. I believe the sack of shit also had a second quote from a renovator in it as well. And he's not happy about it. It's too pricey, and he despises the idea of spending money. However, he is quite interested in having a bathroom in the bedroom. As a result, he comes up with a brilliant idea. If he can put together a group of IBOs, they will be able to construct his bathroom. Unquestionably, that's a fantastic concept. Cutting into the house's existing plumbing and electrical wiring by folks who don't know what they're doing is a dangerous situation. It's likely that you checked out a book from the library to learn how to do it. Ambot made the correct decision to keep out of this one. Due to our termination of our affiliation with these individuals before the bathroom was constructed, he never saw the completed bathroom, but he later learned of it via another IBO. It appears to have been the shits. You have to ask about the appropriateness of having employees read a manual while connecting electric lines together in the first place.

As a result, these upper levels believe they can order their IBOs around and get work done around their homes for free because they trick the IBOs into believing it is a trade in which they will "spend meaningful time with me." In other words, the privilege of their time is equal to the amount of money they would receive if they worked.

You get what you paid for, as the old adage goes, and this is certainly true.

Are Independent Business Owners Actually Free Labor?

Introduction:

Companies that engage in multi-level marketing (MLM) are frequently thought of in conjunction with the concept of Independent Business Owners (IBOs). MLMs use a business model in which people sign up to become independent business owners (IBOs) in order to sell products or services on behalf of the company. In spite of the fact that multi-level marketing companies frequently push the concept of monetary autonomy and the availability of business prospects, some people believe that independent business owners (IBOs) are effectively performing unpaid labor. The purpose of this article is to investigate the nature of independent business owners' (IBOs') involvement in multi-level marketing companies (MLMs) and investigate the elements that contribute to the impression of IBOs as being unpaid workers.

Getting to Know Independent Business Owners (IBOs) Independent Business Owners are people that sign up with multi-level marketing companies as independent contractors in order to promote and sell the products or services offered by the company. They are responsible for creating their own client base, making sales, and recruiting others to join the multi-level marketing business under their team and function as independent business owners. IBOs often earn commissions on their own sales and receive incentives based on the sales performance of their downline, which comprises of persons they have recruited into their network of distributors.

The Fallacy of Entrepreneurship One of the primary criticisms leveled at multi-level marketing schemes is the inaccurate depiction of independent business owners (IBOs) as business owners. Even though they may have some discretion over their working hours and approach to making sales, the multi-level marketing business is ultimately in charge of determining the products, as well as their prices and promotional materials. IBOs frequently have to contend with stringent regulations and constraints imposed by the MLM, which reduces the amount of entrepreneurial flexibility they have.

Expenses and Investments: In order to become an Independent Business Owner (IBO), individuals are typically required to spend their own money on the acquisition of a beginning kit, training materials, and inventory. In order to be eligible for commissions and bonuses, IBOs in MLMs are typically required to keep their inventory at a certain minimum level. IBOs are expected to pay for themselves to travel to and participate in a variety of pricey conferences, seminars, and training sessions. In addition, IBOs are frequently required to pay for their own travel expenses. The fact that IBOs are expected to make these kinds of financial obligations lends credence to the widespread belief that they are not paid appropriately for their work.

IBOs, being independent contractors, do not receive the employment benefits and protections that typical workers have. This is because IBOs are not considered to be employees. They are not eligible for benefits such as guaranteed minimum wages, medical insurance, paid time off, or retirement savings schemes. IBOs are responsible for bearing the financial risks that are associated with their business activities because they do not have access to the safety nets that are generally provided in regular employment contexts. This lends credence to the claim that IBOs are engaging in activities that would normally be performed by unpaid laborers.

High rates of failure: A considerable number of independent business owners do not find major monetary success in their endeavors. MLMs are notorious for bragging about the achievements of their highest earners, yet statistics show that the vast majority of participants are unable to turn a profit at all from their involvement. The economic strategy of multi-level marketing (MLM) mainly depends on recruiting, which can result in the market becoming oversaturated and a limited consumer base. The high failure rates that many IBOs report experiencing are suggestive of the fact that their efforts do not always result in appropriate recompense for the labor that they put in.

Exploitative pay Structures The pay structure that is used by MLMs is one of the primary factors that contributes to the idea that independent business owners (IBOs) are working for free. MLMs frequently use compensation structures that are convoluted, multi-tiered, and heavily weighted toward recruiting rather than actual product sales. IBOs have the opportunity to earn bonuses and overrides depending on the sales that are made by the members of their downline, thus they are incentivized to recruit and build their downlines. Because of the way this organization is designed, a disproportionate amount of focus is placed on recruitment activities rather than the actual sale of items or services.

In spite of the fact that MLMs place a strong emphasis on the idea of autonomous entrepreneurship, the reality for the majority of IBOs is very different. The lack of control, hefty initial investments, lack of job benefits, high failure rates, and exploitative compensation systems all contribute to the idea that independent business owners (IBOs) in the MLM industry are effectively working as free labor. Individuals who are considering becoming involved in multi-level marketing (MLMs) should, similar to individuals who are considering becoming involved in any other type of business opportunity, thoroughly analyze the dangers, possible rewards, and the true nature of their job as IBOs.

An Expensive Social Club

 Earlier this year, Joecool posted something on his blog to the effect that if you aren't making money in your Amway business but are spending a lot of money on Amway products and tools, it is almost as if you have joined an expensive social club.

That sentence, I believe, may be applicable to Ambot. The more money he spent on Amway items and tools, the more popular he became among his new pals.

People are occupied with socialising and spending time with their loved ones. They may be working long hours at their employment, or they may be running a business and need to accommodate customers at unusual hours. People with school-age children are actively involved in their children's recreational activities or provide transportation to and from their children's activities. Take into account things like grocery shopping, going to the gym, walking the dog, and other recreational activities. Consider spending some peaceful time at home reading a book, working on the internet, or watching television. Cleaning, laundry, mowing the lawn, and maintaining a weed-free garden are among the less-than-pleasant tasks around the house. The majority of people have activities that keep them occupied throughout the day. We have hectic schedules, just like many others.

In case we weren't sufficiently overburdened by the fact that Ambot wanted to do the Amway thing all over again, we were always on the go. Often, there would be two or three board meetings in a week that we were had to attend, despite the fact that we were listening to the same old nonsense that we had heard the night before. This would cause us to be unable to work from 7pm until midnight. When it comes to getting us ready for sleep, nothing beats boring us to death. Not to mention any additional seminars, rallies, or other activities that our upline deemed necessary for us to participate in.

Several years ago, I was at a gathering and was listening to a Diamond speaker who was demonstrating to the audience how to pick up prospects using “lines.” Consider the following scenario: a prospect raises the objection that "the business" will not work for them because they do not have any friends. The Diamond then asks them, "How would you like to have some friends?" says the Diamond.

That particular recollection was aroused by the pricey social club allusion.

When someone lacks social connections, they may be interested in joining some form of social group in order to meet new people. Aside from that, the aim of being an Amway IBO is to locate additional prospects who will join up and become IBOs themselves, as well as to find customers who will purchase Amway items. In other words, if the only friends you have are people who are already active in Amway, there is little chance of convincing any of them to become an IBO or to purchase Amway items.

So, despite the fact that we already have hectic schedules, Ambot determined that we should be even busier. In addition to his old pals, he had made a whole new group of acquaintances who were stealthily encouraging him to abandon his former buddies. His self-importance was on display anytime someone asked him to come over, and he would respond by saying he was too busy that night (Amway meeting). This is in addition to the deluge of text messages and phone calls that he received from his upline immediately after joining the company.

I'm not here to recommend social clubs or to give advice on how to make new friends. All I want to say is that if you are seeking for a new group of individuals to hang out with, there are a variety of options to consider. If one of your motivations for joining Amway is to have a ready-made network of buddies, you've made a mistake by signing up. A membership in Amway is an expensive social club that will put you in financial and emotional hardship. When you decide to leave Amway, it will be the last time you hear from your newfound pals, who are fickle bastards to begin with. These aren't the kinds of buddies you want to hang out with. This isn't the type of company enterprise you should be involved with.

Exciting changes!

 We were informed at nearly every Amway meeting we attended that we had joined the company at the perfect moment. Now is the beginning of what is expected to be a significant increase in Amway product sales through the Internet in the coming years. Exciting changes are set to take place in the Amway organisation. This is monumental!

I'm very sure we heard the same pitch many years ago as well!

We were shown graphs that depicted how this pattern was expected to unfold over the next few years, with sales on the rise. During every Amway meeting, this chart was displayed as part of the business plan flip cards that were distributed to attendees.

Some changes may occur, but whether or not they are exciting is up for debate. I'm not really here to talk about Amway policy or the changes that are taking place within their organisation. Among other things, this site exists to curse my old upline and to tell others on what it was like to live with an Ambot.

Here are the (not-so-exciting) changes I saw in Ambot during my testing:

1. He got into heated debates with people with whom he generally got along well but who refused to attend Amway meetings because they didn't want to be there.

2. He sneered at people who were working at a regular job and were not interested in pursuing an Amway career.

His rudeness toward acquaintances who were not interested in helping his business by purchasing pricey Amway products was a source of contention.

4. He put down whatever he was doing to reply to phone calls or text messages from his upline, who wanted him to haul his ass to where they were for whatever they judged to be more essential than whatever he was doing.

5. He was continually quoting Amway lingo and repeating whatever it was that his upline had brainwashed him into saying.

6. He questioned everything I did, including how it was generating income for him in his Amway company.

His upline sponsor was some sort of god to him, and as a result, we were under the misconception that licking his asshole was required of us.

(8) He behaved in an untidiness manner throughout the house, scattering his Amway rubbish wherever he went and refusing to place the containers containing the consumed products in the garbage or recycling bin.

9. He utilised his previously debt-free credit card for Amway-related purchases, including taking the entire upline out to dinner, and he maxed out his credit card limit in the process.

10. He became increasingly irritated, combative, disrespectful, and arrogant as the conversation progressed.

eleven. He accused everyone who had a different point of view (as a result of his upline) of being negative

The changes that have occurred since Ambot was expelled from the cult have been significantly more beneficial. One of them is regaining one's pleasant demeanour. The upline's claims that being an IBO makes you a nicer person are intended to divert IBOs' focus away from the fact that they aren't earning any money. However, I'm here to argue that this is not true and that being an IBO does not make one a more pleasant individual at all. They may all put on a fake nicey nice show at gatherings and seminars, but in private, they are rude, surly, unapproachable terrible excuses for human beings who should not be allowed to exist. I find it amusing how losing money in Amway can alter a person's personality, particularly when the upline brainwashes them into believing that the reason they aren't succeeding is because they aren't working hard enough or because they are losers.

I'm here to tell you that witnessing someone being brainwashed by the Amway cult is not an enjoyable change of pace.

Thrilling Alterations: Recognizing and Embracing the Force of Transformation

Introduction: Life is a journey that is constantly evolving and growing, and it is frequently the thrilling changes that form both our pasts and our futures. The ability to adapt to changing circumstances, whether they be personal or societal, can open doors to exciting new possibilities, introduce novel points of view, and instill a spirit of exploration. The idea of exciting transitions, their influence on our lives, and the ways in which we might manage them with optimism and enthusiasm are all topics that are discussed in this essay.

Personal Development and Change: Experiencing your own personal development and change is one of the most exhilarating aspects of living a full life. It is only through experiencing change that we are able to learn new skills, put ourselves to the test, and mature as individuals. Embracing opportunities for personal development can lead to the discovery of previously unexplored interests and passions, the development of previously unknown abilities, or the adoption of a new mentality. All of these can lead to exciting new possibilities. We may broaden our horizons and realize our full potential if we force ourselves to venture outside of the confines of our comfort zones.

Changes that are both exhilarating and beneficial frequently take place in the context of job advancement and professional development. In the workplace, being open to change can lead to new opportunities for promotion, career changes, or entrepreneurial endeavors. Opportunities for innovation and creativity are created whenever there is a shift in the market, an industry, or technology. Individuals have the ability to move their professions forward and find joy in their professional activities if they are willing to embrace these changes.

Alterations in Social Structure and Cultural Practices: Our society is always going through transformative changes that have an effect on our shared experiences. Changes in social and cultural norms brought about by developments in technology, shifts in population makeup, and other factors can be both fascinating and difficult to navigate. These shifts present possibilities to encourage inclusiveness, to challenge old viewpoints, and to bring about constructive change in communities. We can become a part of the forward-thinking movements that are shaping the future if we are willing to embrace social and cultural shifts.

Relationships and Connections: Exciting shifts frequently become apparent in the ways in which we relate to and are connected to one another. Change plays an important part in the dynamics of human interactions, whether it be in the establishment of new friendships, the beginning of love relationships, or the redefinition of connections that already exist. Accepting change in one's relationships paves the way for one's own personal development, greater comprehension, and the possibility of more profound connections. We forge enduring connections with other people and share important experiences with them via the process of change.

Traveling to uncharted territories and learning about foreign cultures is a thrilling approach to welcome invigorating shifts in one's life. Our minds are opened to new ideas and experiences, our horizons are expanded, and our spirit of adventure is stoked when we travel. Embracing the changes that occur with travel can lead to personal transformation, self-discovery, and a greater respect for the world that we live in. This can happen in a variety of ways, including by going on solo excursions or participating in immersive cultural exchanges.

Adapting to Environmental Changes In light of the fact that the world is currently facing a number of environmental concerns, it is essential to accept environmental changes in order to both minimize and adapt to these problems. Accepting environmental changes can have a significant impact not just on the globe but also on future generations, and these changes can range from sustainable living practices to renewable energy sources. It is a chance to make a positive contribution to a world that is both healthier and more sustainable, thereby opening up fascinating opportunities for a brighter future.

The trip that is life is guaranteed to be full of interesting new experiences at every turn. We put ourselves in a position to experience personal development, career progression, societal advancement, and meaningful connections when we accept and embrace these differences. It is only through experiencing change that we can muster the bravery to venture out of our comfort zones, learn about new interests, and have a beneficial influence on the rest of the world. Therefore, let us embrace the winds of change with enthusiasm since they have the potential to transform the course of our lives in extraordinary ways.

Dream Night is a Financial Orgy

 Yes, you read that correctly, so go ahead and get a good chuckle about it!

Someone approaches the Platinum bucket of shit and inquires as to what Dream Night is. Here's what was said in full:

« It's time to get things started in the new year by making financial resolutions for the group. It's the most important financial event of the year.”

What kind of response is that, in the first place? In my opinion, the orgy thing will capture the interest of the largely male, adolescent audience. It was clear that they were going to be disappointed when they arrived at the celebration!

The event was hosted in a banquet room at a hotel, and tickets were $66 apiece. The amount I heard was $75 per person in the segment of the audio that I listened to, and then I heard the bag of shit demand another $75 from each person in the downline to cover their expenditures in coordinating and purchasing tickets for everyone. The mystery of why an additional $9 each went to the upline for typing a few more tickets into the WWDB website to order them and then going through all the hassle of distributing them to the IBOs was left unsolved because no one asked for clarity. Scalpers!

The pricey ticket provided the IBO with a dinner while also obliging them to listen to and watch a few of Diamond speakers and their movies. For the most part, it was all about the Diamonds' lifestyle, or at least what they sought to represent to IBOs as their lifestyle, with mansions, private jets, sports cars, exotic holidays, and other such luxuries displayed. And, according to reports, they pay for all of these items entirely with cash, never accruing debt. Amway's numbers of an average Diamond's annual income of $146,000 do not appear to be practical in that they do not imply that mansions, fancy automobiles, exotic holidays, and other such luxuries are financially feasible on that salary.

There's a lot of smoke and mirrors. Lies, lies, and more lies The Amway shuffle is what you're doing there.

The Platinum informs the cult members that his pitch to persuade people to attend Dream Night is as follows:

During this economic crisis, are you getting everything you can out of what you're currently doing, or do you believe that something needs to be changed or done more effectively?”

If someone said that to me, I believe I would respond with, "Huh?" Afterwards, the IBO, believing he had a live one, would repeat it, and I'd wonder to myself, "What in the fuck are you trying to say?"

The Platinum stated that he would be hosting a table for ten people, and then he asked around the room to see how many suckers the IBOs had managed to recruit to come. What he discovers is that everyone's guest lists are primarily comprised of family members rather than potential IBOs, which enrages the Platinum. He starts riding the eagle's back to get after the folks in his downline who don't have the necessary numbers of invited guests to show up and put in the effort to get the job done.

Ambot enters the scene and announces that he will be bringing eight guests. There were no guests present when Dream Night arrived. He was fortunate in that he did not purchase any additional tickets. The bottom truth is that everyone had impressive figures, but only a few, if any, were able to generate new opportunities.

They messed up despite the fact that they were being compensated an additional $9 per ticket by their upline for their trouble in acquiring tickets, and the whole affair turned into a disaster. There were a few vegans among our group of twenty-somethings. When purchasing tickets from the WWDB website, there was an opportunity to choose between a meat or a vegetarian meal. The asshole scalper who was collecting the money took note of everyone's meal selections at the moment they handed over their cash, but he did not necessarily add up the different meal options when he purchased a large number of Dream Night tickets at the same time. When the IBOs arrived at the hotel, the tickets were handed out to them as part of the control process.

It should be obvious by now that almost everyone ended up with the opposite supper option from what they had originally requested. People were attempting to grab a ticket and a table with their desired food selection on it while IBOs were standing in the hallway, yelling and yelling. Due to the fact that the asshole in charge of awarding the tickets kept running off to retrieve the platinum and obtain more tickets, it took a long time to resolve.

This isn't the first time these incompetent idiots have failed to put their act together.

In recent years, the concept of Dream Night, which is also frequently referred to as a "financial orgy," has become the subject of discussion and interest. It includes the concepts of obtaining enormous financial success, coming to terms with one's ambitions, and leading a life filled with plenty of resources. In this piece, we investigate the idea of Dream Night as a metaphor for monetary success by investigating its ramifications, motivations, and the broader discourses that surround it.

A Breakdown of the Concept of Dream Night The concept of Dream Night embodies the image of a sumptuous and opulent way of life in which individuals appear to be free from the limits of their financial situation. It is a figurative celebration of reaching one's wildest ambitions in terms of riches and achievement, and it depicts a night of indulging, going overboard, and having an abundance of material possessions.

The Desire for Financial Freedom and Security is One of the Core Motivations Behind Dream Night One of the primary reasons that Dream Night was created was the founder's desire to achieve financial freedom and security. It stands for the desire of amassing significant riches, which would give individuals the means to live comfortably, follow their passions, and provide for their loved ones.

b) Success in the Material World and Elevated Social Standing: Dream Night is frequently linked to the acquisition of high-end possessions, expensive adventures, and an improved social standing. It exemplifies the quest for monetary wealth as a measure of one's level of accomplishment and sense of worth.

c) Personal Satisfaction and Actualization of Self Dream Night can also be interpreted as an expression of personal satisfaction and the actualization of one's own self. It is a metaphor of the freedom to pursue one's ambitions, the release of one's creative potential, and the ability to make a great effect on the world, all of which can be fueled by the resources that achieving financial success can bring.

The following are some of the psychological effects that Dream Night has: a) Ambition and drive: the idea behind Dream Night gives people a reason to be ambitious and gives them a concrete target to work for. It has the potential to be a potent motivator, motivating people to work hard, take risks, and push themselves beyond their boundaries in order to achieve monetary success.

b) A Sense of Satisfaction and Happiness: Accomplishing Dream Night may result in a feeling of contentment and joy for the player. Nevertheless, it is of the utmost importance to acknowledge that long-term pleasure is typically the result of a harmony among a number of aspects, including personal connections, purposeful employment, and overall well-being, rather than just the accumulation of monetary wealth.

c) Potential Obstacles and Dangers: Although Dream Night is symbolic of an abundance of money resources, it is vital to take into consideration the potential difficulties that may develop. A preoccupation on material goods to the exclusion of other areas of one's life, including one's health, relationships, and capacity for self-improvement, is likely to result in a warped view of what constitutes happy.

Perspectives on Dream Night: a) Criticisms of Materialism Some people believe that placing an excessive amount of emphasis on Dream Night contributes to the perpetuation of a culture of materialism, in which one's level of financial success is seen as the key indicator of one's level of value and pleasure. They place a strong emphasis on the significance of valuing non-material aspects of life, such as one's own development, one's emotional well-being, and one's contributions to society.

b) Well-Balanced Strategies for Achieving Success Many advocates of a well-balanced strategy for achieving success emphasize how important it is to connect one's financial goals with one's personal values, the pursuit of personal fulfillment, and the making of significant contributions to society. They advocate for a more holistic approach that prioritizes overall well-being over merely material success as the primary measure of success in life.

c) Giving Back to Society and Being Socially Responsible: Some people who have attained financial success through Dream Night acknowledge the significance of being socially responsible and giving back to the community. They put their riches to work for the greater good by donating to charitable organizations, investing in the growth of their communities, and spreading awareness about the importance of social responsibility.

In conclusion, Dream Night is a metaphor for the desire of material wealth, personal satisfaction, and an expensive way of life. It is crucial to approach it with a balanced viewpoint because it has the potential to act as a powerful motivator and a sign of accomplishment; nonetheless, it cannot be ignored. The only way to experience genuine contentment and joy in life is to adopt a holistic perspective, in which you prioritize your own personal development, cultivate healthy relationships, and have a constructive influence on the wider world. In the end, Dream Night shouldn't just be seen as anown interest, but also as a chance to make a positive impact on the world around them and society as a whole.

Creating a budget

 I was taken aback when Ambot informed me that the Platinum sack of shit had requested to see our financial records.

He has absolutely no business being involved in something like that,” I said. The fact that he does not work for a bank does not exclude us from seeking a loan.

“But if we're serious about building a firm, he says we have to present him with a budget,” Ambot countered. The Platinum wanted to view our budget? I couldn't understand out why they needed to see it other than Ambot's vague explanation that the Platinum wanted to help us build a budget that we could follow and help us get back on track financially, which made no sense to me at the time. Let's check if he's a financial planner or not. I was under the impression he had a government job that was unrelated to finance? But then I forget that being a sack of shit Platinum necessitates the inability to take care of one's own affairs first and foremost.

In the past couple of years, I'd read a book written by a financial planner in which one of the exercises was to make a budget, and I'd used that information to create a budget at some point. When I got home, I started reading books by another financial expert who advised against setting budgets because over 90 percent of people don't adhere to them in the first place, which was completely true in our situation. I decided that the budget I had recorded on the computer was sufficient for me and that it did not require any updates, so I printed it out for Ambot.

The Platinum was impressed and stated that we were in significantly better shape than the majority of his downline. There was a good justification for this, especially considering that, aside from our mortgage, we had no other debt. We owned our automobiles and had money in the bank, as well as investments and savings. This is merely a normal aspect of the human experience. People in their twenties who are just starting off still have to save enough for a down payment on their first home, and they almost certainly had to take out a loan to purchase a vehicle. And, more than likely, you have credit card debt.

So the jerk wants to see our budget in order to help us stay on track financially, even though we're in better financial health than he is?

In retrospect, I can see that the Platinum wanted to see our budget in order to determine how much wiggle space we had to purchase Amway items and make investments in equipment when he noticed the disparity between our income and expenses. The true reason he was impressed was the fact that we had no debt on our credit cards and had approximately $100,000 in cash on hand. In addition to being able to charge a lot of Amway items, we had nothing preventing us from attending gatherings outside of our home state of California. “All you have to do is charge it!” Given that we have equity in our home, the Platinum must have seen dollar indicators that we could be able to obtain a line of credit against that equity if we required it. In addition, we had a sizable 401k that we could use to make donations to the religion, which he must have thought was fantastic.

He must have given me some Amway-related items to include in the amended budget I created following the Platinum meeting, because I just looked at it. Every month, $300 has been set aside towards PV expenses. As previously said, Ambot spent between $950 and $1050 each month on PV, as detailed in my earlier post. (Remember what I said about not sticking to a budget???) This is under household, and it contains items such as groceries, utilities, and so on. Three items (HA!) are listed under business expenses: a website for $50 (which would have been the WWDB Premier membership), Communikate for $34, and samples for $60, for a total of $144 in business expenses per month. Plus $300 in personal shopping for PV, for a total of $444. That's roughly what I mentioned in my Save First, Spend Later blog post about a low-ball monthly Amway investment in the first place. Add in the functions and budget a minimum of $700 per month. We spent a little more than what the sack of shit had us put on the budget, but not much more.

The budget was never mentioned or referred to again. It's a little like the name list. Simply produce one to demonstrate to the Platinum that you possess one, and there is no need to bring it up again.

However, we did not receive any specific recommendations from the Platinum on how much money to allocate to the Amway budget. After getting "heated up," Ambot spent close to $2000 each month on different Amway-related activities, including purchasing products, purchasing tools, entertaining upline, and so on. Ambot's spending habits improved after that. After he reached the credit card limit on his account, his spending was cut to approximately $500 per month.

So much for sticking to a budget. It is possible that if I were to keep a journal, I would have to include a new column for paying off credit card debt, thanks to Amway.

Ambot the Social Director

 If it wasn't bad enough that Ambot wanted to be a member of a costly social club, he also decided to take on the role of social director himself.

The cooler he purchased from the XS Gear website was filled with Amway drinks and meal bars, which he took to the Amway meetings where he shovelled in as many as he could to demonstrate to everyone around him what a dedicated Ambot he was.

That wasn't enough to make me angry, but the self-appointed social director began handing out drinks and food bars to everyone else, regardless of whether they wanted one or not. If anyone has ever purchased this crap, they will know that it is EXTREMELY EXPENSIVE. When you break down the cost per unit, it can range from $2 to $5 depending on what you have on hand. I enjoy making expensive items last for an extended period of time. Even if someone offers me a box of Ghirardelli chocolate, I can stretch it out for several weeks, if not several months.

Ambot, on the other hand, had no such inclination. The meal bars were devoured and the energy drinks (XS) were consumed in droves by him on a daily basis. Add to that another case of each that he handed out to every IBO who was seated around me, and you have a recipe for disaster. These cretins were all IBOs who were well aware of the high cost of this nonsense. If they chose to consume it, they should be able to do so independently and earn their own PV.

Despite the fact that Ambot was constantly handing out free XS and meal bars, not a single one of those cheap bastards ever shared any of their Amway products with us.

Just to be clear, I'm not this frugal when it comes to non-Amway things. If I happen to have a sack of M&M's, I'll be happy to share them. If I have a 12-pack of Dr Peppers on hand, I'll distribute them. If I've cooked a batch of cookies, I'll distribute them to everyone. If we decide to have a BBQ, I'll have plenty of food to serve everyone that comes. Please assist yourself.

While during meetings, Ambot effortlessly distributed consumables worth $50 to others in our crossline or upline. What about the budget we had to show the Platinum? What happened to it? A $50/meeting entertainment budget to offset the price of the Amway products that Ambot was handing away was nowhere to be found throughout my search for information. That same $50 could be used to treat the two of us to a lovely supper out somewhere.

Ambot's ego was touched by the Platinum piece of shit referring to him as a server. (What sort of a praise is that, exactly???) That is why Ambot's purpose for being on planet is to serve other people. Ambot devoured the entire meal. Especially when I consider how much he spent on Amway consumables in the first place. In addition, he served the excrement up to other IBO's at meetings, which was figuratively speaking.

I also do not believe that an XS and a food bar can substitute for a well-balanced supper, no matter how hard the upline may attempt to convince everyone that these are good eating options. Or even a meal that isn't quite well-balanced in terms of nutrients.

Ambot could have just as easily handed out $10 dollars to anyone who expressed an interest.

A community of people who are committed to creating their own companies by selling Amway products and recruiting others to do the same are members of Ambot, which is a phrase that is widely used to refer to Amway distributors. One of the many responsibilities that one can take on within this group of distributors in order to assist in the expansion of their business and provide support for their team is the one of Social Director. In this post, we will discuss the roles and responsibilities of the Social Director at Amway, as well as how those roles and responsibilities contribute to the company's overall performance.

The Social Director is in charge of planning and coordinating the Amway team's participation in various social activities. Distributors have the opportunity to network with one another, discuss ideas, and develop relationships during these events, which might take the form of parties, dinners, and other social gatherings. The Social Director is responsible for the planning and execution of these events, which includes locating a suitable location as well as making arrangements for catering and entertainment.

One of the most important jobs of the Social Director is to cultivate a community that is accepting of all Amway distributors and encourages participation from all of them. They have a responsibility to make sure that everyone, regardless of their history or degree of experience, is made to feel welcome and included. This goal can be accomplished by picking the location of the event with care, organizing the events, and getting as many people as possible involved.

Providing an environment that is exciting and motivating to those around you is another essential part of the Social Director's responsibilities. They are tasked with motivating the Amway team to work towards their objectives by furnishing them with the instruments and resources they require to be successful. This may involve arranging for members of the team to be recognized and celebrated for their accomplishments, as well as scheduling training sessions, motivational speakers, and celebrations.

The Social Director is responsible for keeping the team aware of future events as well as any other significant news. This requires the Social Director to be an effective communicator. They have a responsibility to make certain that everybody is on the same page, and that there is open and honest communication among the team members. This can include doing things like developing social media groups, sending out frequent newsletters, and scheduling in-person team meetings.

The improved sense of community and camaraderie that exists within the Amway team is one of the most significant advantages of having a Social Director on staff. The role of the Social Director is to facilitate the development of robust ties among the members of the team by way of the organization of social events and the promotion of an inviting atmosphere. This, in turn, has the potential to contribute to improved motivation, increased production, and overall success for the team as a whole.

In addition to being in charge of planning fun get-togethers for the Amway staff, the Social Director is also an integral part of the process of bringing on new distributors. They are able to recruit new people to join the team and provide support as they get started with their Amway businesses if they cultivate an atmosphere that is upbeat and friendly. New Amway distributors can receive direction and assistance from the Social Director, which will assist them in successfully navigating the intricate Amway world and achieving their objectives.

In conclusion, the function of the Social Director is an important one within the Amway community. This person is in charge of planning social gatherings and cultivating a feeling of community among the members of the team. They contribute significantly to the development of an atmosphere that is both motivating and inspirational, and they assist in the process of adding new members to the team. Amway's team has the potential to accomplish success and come closer to achieving their goals when they have the assistance of an experienced and committed Social Director.

Why won’t those cult followers leave us alone?

 I know that after Ambot quit attending Amway meetings, the cult leader sent the word across the organisation that we were not to be associated with anything. And, beyond a doubt, there isn't any doubt about that. Ambot was informed by more than one source that he was blacklisted.

That's perfectly OK to me!

If only those filthy Amway cultists would just go away and leave us alone.

The vast majority of them have done so. The Platinum piece of shit, Emerald, and the majority of their downline and crossline haven't been seen in a very long time, to be honest.

Unfortunately, our sponsor, the conceited jerk, is still lingering about Ambot, causing trouble. The bastard is still pissed off at me, whether he's begging for money or begging for things to borrow.

To this day, I haven't spoken to him in person. Ambot was being brainwashed by the Amway cult at the time, and that fucking asshole has never once shown regret for the horror I was put through by him. That fucking idiot has never once given any form of financial recompense for the emotional and financial damages we have incurred as a result of his failure to conduct himself in a professional manner. When Ambot attempted to return unopened CDs in order to receive a refund, the fucking jerk refused to accept the return. He stated that he did not have the funds and that he was no longer involved with Amway, thus Ambot got the short end of the stick.

Ambot attempted to return the CDs that had not been opened by going higher up the chain of command. No one wanted to give him a refund, however one individual offered ten cents for each of his purchases. They range in price from $2 to $5 a piece. Everything was going for the garbage landfill.

Then there's the former eagle who won't leave Ambot alone and refers to him as another money-grubbing, selfish bastard who's now involved with another MLM and is attempting to get Ambot interested in it as well as the first. Ambot, on the other hand, has learnt his lesson (hopefully a lifelong lesson!) and has decided not to participate.

Several members of Ambot's previous upline and crossline are still friends with him on Facebook, but I'm guessing that's because they don't bother keeping track of who they have and haven't gotten around to defriending him yet.

In spite of the fact that he lost his entire leg when the eagle fled and all of the numerous downlines in that area also left, another former Amway upline still communicates with Ambot on a semi-annual basis. He doesn't talk to him about buying anything or returning to Amway; he just calls to chat about anything. Yes, that's correct. He's up to something, but it's unclear what it is. Our relationship with this individual is completely non-existent, and I can't think of a single reason why he would want to go out and shoot crap with us. After all, the Amway line of sponsorships educate its IBOs to turn their backs on former IBOs - after all, they're losers and quitters - which makes me a little suspicious of the objectives of this particular sponsor. He's a good deal younger than Ambot, and the two of them have nothing in common, so there's no reason for this individual to call just to say hello.

In any case, I have absolutely nothing to do with them. That fucking arrogant prick still wants to hang out with Ambot, despite the fact that he knows I despise him much more now than I did before the Amway stint. I don't pay attention to him. His presence in our home is prohibited, but Ambot will allow him to come over and speak with him in the driveway or on the street.

I mean, wouldn't the vast majority of people have a clue?

Didn't you make the mistake of picking the wrong person to fuck with, you arrogant jerk?

Why Won't Those People Who Follow That Cult Just Leave Us Alone?

Introduction:

Because of their power to mold and direct the thoughts of those who follow them, cults have long been a source of fascination and unease in modern culture. Even while the majority of people are able to identify and shun the deceptive practices that are utilized by cults, there are still some people who are led astray by the seductive promises made by the charismatic leaders of these groups. Those who are able to break free from the control of a cult face an uphill struggle that does not always end there. The tenacious character of people who follow cults can lead to continuing harassment of former members and attempts to coerce them into rejoining the group. In this essay, we will investigate the reasons behind why cult members won't leave us alone, as well as the problems that are experienced by people who wish to break away from the influence of cults.

Indoctrination and Psychological Manipulation: Cults are highly skilled at taking advantage of members' psychological frailties and indoctrinating those who join their ranks. They employ sophisticated methods such as love bombing, isolation, mind control, and fear tactics in order to obtain control over the thoughts and behaviors of the people who are a part of their organization. The process of overcoming this psychological deception is a challenging one that calls for patience, the help of others, and one's own personal fortitude.

Strong Feelings of Belonging and Identity Cults frequently instill in their adherents a robust sense of belonging to the group as well as a sense of their own unique identity. When a person leaves a cult, they are cutting all ties with their community, which is a vital component of the cult's overall social structure. After leaving a cult, former members are likely to experience an emptiness in their lives, and in some instances, they may try to reconnect with former members in an effort to restore that sense of belonging that they had lost.

Cult leaders frequently inspire dread and paranoia in their followers by threatening them with grave consequences if they leave the group or speak out against it. In addition, they may threaten their followers with death if they do either of these things. Even after leaving the cult, former members may continue to experience this anxiety because they are concerned about retaliation or reprisal from the cult or its adherents. Cult members and their supporters may seek former members in an effort to maintain control over them or to frighten them into remaining silent.

Cognitive Dissonance A person is said to be suffering from cognitive dissonance if they have contradicting views or are experiencing conflicting emotions. Cognitive dissonance is something that frequently affects people who are supporters of cults because they are forced to confront the incongruity that exists between the idealized picture offered by the cult and the reality that they experience. The fundamental beliefs of those who remain in the cult are put to the test when they are faced by former members of the group who have since left the organization and exposed its shortcomings. They may be unwilling to face the truth and instead become even more devoted to the tenets of the cult, stepping up their attempts to convince former members to return to the fold.

Both in terms of Recruitment and Retention Cults put a lot of pressure on their members by putting a strong emphasis on recruiting and retention. The expansion of the cult's influence and membership are both dependent on the followers' efforts to bring in new adherents. It is possible that quitting the cult will be interpreted as a personal failure or as a threat to the group's reputation. Followers of a cult may feel pushed to bring back defectors, not only to reclaim lost members but also to prove the legitimacy of their beliefs and preserve the illusion of a united front. This pressure may come from a desire to regain lost members as well as to maintain the illusion of a united front.

Emotional Dependency Cults frequently take advantage of its followers' emotional vulnerabilities and the dependence demands that they have. Many people who join cults do so because they lack a sense of direction or purpose in their lives or because they want emotional support. Leaders of cults tend to portray themselves as figures of authority, acting as a source of direction, affirmation, and emotional stability for their followers. Leaving a cult requires cutting these attachments, which can be tough for both the former member of the cult as well as the cult members who were emotionally invested in their relationship.

In other instances, members of the cult sincerely feel that the actions they are taking are for the benefit of those who have left the group; nonetheless, these good intentions are often misplaced. It's possible that they continue to believe the teachings of the cult are the one and only way to achieve personal fulfillment or salvation. It's possible that members who join a cult see their acts as a type of rescue or intervention, even while they refuse to acknowledge that those who have left the cult are happier and better off outside of its bounds.

Getting away from the control that a cult has over you is a path that requires a lot of bravery and perseverance. However, the fight isn't always over once the individual has actually left the cult on their own volition. Former members are frequently confronted by cult followers who make repeated attempts to recruit them back into the group. It is possible to gain insight into the motivations of cult followers by gaining an understanding of the psychological, emotional, and social processes that drive the conduct of cult members. It is essential for defectors to seek help from friends, family, and professional groups specialized in cult recovery in order to negotiate the hurdles given by cult followers and to reconstruct their lives free from undue influence. This support can come in many forms.

Who can answer this question?

 Who was the first to be dishonest - Amway or the upline?

Who Is Able to Respond to This Question? Unravel the Mystery Behind the Search for Knowledge

The pursuit of knowledge and the exercise of human curiosity have always been inextricably linked, and questions have always played a central role in both of these endeavors. When we are young children, we naturally become curious in the world around us and begin to ask questions about it. As we become older, the questions that we have become more complicated and cover a wider range of topics. These vary from questions about science and philosophy to questions about personal conundrums and existential concerns. On the other hand, there are questions that are either so profound or so specialized that they appear to be beyond our capacity to comprehend, prompting us to wonder, "Who can answer this question?"

The Complicacy of Human Knowledge The body of human knowledge can be likened to a huge and intricate tapestry that has been stitched together by the efforts of many individuals working in a variety of academic disciplines. We are able to investigate various features of the world thanks to the distinctive toolkits and points of view that are provided by the various fields of study. There may be multiple people or groups who are knowledgeable enough to offer insightful responses to any particular subject. These individuals or groups could be individuals.

Seeking out domain experts is one of the simplest solutions to the conundrum of who can provide an answer to a certain query because domain experts are the most knowledgeable people in their fields. These people have devoted their entire life to the study and mastery of a specific field, thereby obtaining expert-level knowledge and abilities in that particular area. It doesn't matter if you have a question about quantum mechanics, ancient history, neurology, or any other topic; going to an expert in that particular field will improve the likelihood that you will receive answers that are correct and well-informed.

Institutions of Higher Learning and Scientific Research Academic and scientific research institutions play a crucial part in the expansion of human knowledge and comprehension. They provide a fertile environment for intellectual pursuits and are home to experts and academics who have devoted their whole careers to expanding the frontiers of what is known. These universities typically have professors, researchers, and scientists that are well-equipped to tackle difficult topics and deliver answers that are founded on thorough research and analysis.

Collaborative efforts and interdisciplinary approaches: Certain topics go beyond the confines of individual fields of study and call for an approach that integrates multiple fields of study. In situations like these, the collaboration of specialists from a variety of professions can be an invaluable asset in the search for answers. Interdisciplinary teams are able to solve difficult problems that would be difficult for a single individual or discipline to address since the members of these teams bring their own distinct views and areas of expertise to the table. The results of these collaborations contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the issue at hand.

Thinkers and Philosophers: There are a few questions that dive into the realms of philosophy, ethics, and the fundamental nature of human existence. Over the course of several centuries, philosophers, intellectuals, and theologians have struggled to find answers to deep issues. As a result, we now have intellectual frameworks and views that can assist us in navigating the difficulties of everyday life. Even though their responses aren't always conclusive, the remarkable insights and views they offer can help shed light on some of the most perplexing problems.

The process of soliciting answers from a large group of people through an online platform known as crowdsourcing has become increasingly common in this age of the internet. People from all over the world are able to communicate with one another and share their knowledge and perspectives on a wide range of topics through various online groups and platforms. These platforms can offer varied viewpoints and ideas, which can extend the scope of potential responses. Caution should be exercised while checking the credibility of material gained through crowdsourcing; nonetheless, this should not prevent one from doing so.

The Constraints of Human Knowledge It is essential to recognize the constraints that are placed on human knowledge, despite the great number of specialists and resources that are currently available. There are some questions that may never have answers or may be beyond the scope of our current comprehension due to the intricacy, absence of proof, or fundamental philosophical nature of the topic. In circumstances like this, it is absolutely necessary to be open to the possibility of error and to recognize that our search for information is more of a process than it is a final destination.

The response to the query "Who can answer this question?" can take on many forms and is contingent on the kind of investigation being conducted. When looking for answers, some important resources to consult are philosophers, domain specialists, academic institutions, and interdisciplinary collaborations. Online communities are another valuable resource. However, it is essential to acknowledge the bounds of human knowledge and to embrace the humility that comes with acknowledging the existence of issues that do not have definitive answers. There is always more to study, investigate, and comprehend within the vast tapestry that is the body of human knowledge.

Shipping Costs

 When Ambot originally signed up as an IBO, the things he purchased were delivered free of charge for the first three months. Following that, shipping charges were incurred.

The purchase of a minimal amount by non-IBO customers qualifies them for free shipping on their next order. I don't remember exactly how much it was, but I believe it was $75. I'm confident that if I get the number wrong, someone will point it out. I just dimly recall there being a minimum quantity because a friend of ours, who was sympathetic to Ambot's plight, chose to purchase laundry soap. She decided to cancel the order when it came time to check out. Assuming there was a report somewhere, Ambot realised he had a missed sale and called the customer to inquire as to why. The customer responded that the shipping charge was too high because she had not met the minimum amount required to have it shipped for free.

That washing soap was somewhat pricey, at roughly $40 per bottle. Not wanting to risk losing a sale, Ambot offered to purchase it and include it in his next transaction (on which he would pay the shipping fees), and our buddy agreed to the offer. She did not purchase it again, though, claiming that it was too pricey.

And she was absolutely correct. Wal-Mart has a good, well-known name brand concentrated laundry soap that is environmentally friendly for $10 that you may purchase. Since Ambot departed Amway and I am now able to purchase laundry soap of my choosing, our clothes are much cleaner than they were when we were using the Amway SA8 or whatever their laundry soap was referred to be.

Because Amway cites Amazon as a comparison for Internet buying in its board plan presentation, I'll use it as a comparison for delivery as well.

Free shipping is available on orders of $25 or more from Amazon.

Wow, that's a lot lower than Amway's bare minimum requirement. It's not difficult to buy two or three books that you want to read and come up with the $25.

On the other hand, it is just as simple to meet the $25 threshold in Amway items to spend. However, if you want to take advantage of the free shipping, you must continue shopping and spend three times that amount.

So, thank you, Amway, for making the comparison between yourselves and Amazon. I'll prefer to shop there over your firm any day.

The fees that are incurred in the process of transporting products from one location to another are referred to as "shipping costs." It has a crucial role in determining whether or not a company is profitable, as it is an integral part of the logistics and supply chain management processes. The cost of shipping is determined by a number of factors including the form of transportation, distance traveled, size, weight, and the amount of time it takes to deliver the package.

Different Methods of Traveling:

The shipping prices are heavily impacted by several factors, one of which is the mode of transportation that is selected. Air travel, maritime travel, railroad travel, and driving are the most typical ways to get anywhere. Air travel is the most expensive and time-consuming means of transportation available. However, it is also the fastest. Transport by sea is the most cost-effective method but also the one that takes the most time; rail and road travel are intermediate.

Distance:

The distance that must be traveled from the point of origin to the final destination of the shipment is one of the primary factors that determines the cost of shipping. In general, the cost of shipping will increase proportionately with the distance traveled. This is due to the fact that transporting goods over greater distances involves more fuel, more time, and more resources.

Weight and Size:

The cost of shipping is heavily influenced not only by the quantity but also by the dimensions of the shipment. In general, the prices of shipping will increase proportionately with the package's weight and size. This is due to the fact that shipments that are both heavy and vast demand a greater amount of fuel, more room, and more resources.

Timing of the Delivery:

Another factor that plays a role in determining the total cost of shipping is the arrival time. Standard shipping services are typically less expensive than expedited shipping services, which ensure arrival in a shorter amount of time. This is due to the fact that quicker shipment requiring additional resources and a more organized and effective logistics system.

There will be additional fees for:

There may be additional fees incurred in addition to the standard shipping costs. These may include insurance premiums, customs and tax fees, as well as handling fees. These fees change based on the characteristics of the shipment and the laws of the country in which the shipment is to be delivere

Some Suggestions to Cut Down on Shipping Costs:

The following are some tactics that, when implemented by businesses, might help minimize their shipping costs:

Negotiate pricing with carriers If a company wants to receive better deals and cut down on the amount they spend on shipping, they should negotiate rates with the carriers they use.

Optimize the packaging: Using materials and dimensions that are best for packaging can help minimize the weight and size of the package, which in turn helps lower the cost of shipping.

Consolidate your shipments: If you combine many shipments into one, you can cut down on the number of trips that are needed, which in turn will lower your shipping expenses.

Utilize technology: Putting into place shipping software and automation can assist businesses in streamlining their shipping procedures, which in turn will help them cut costs.

The best way for businesses to avoid paying rush fees and expedited shipping rates is to plan their shipments in advance and do it as far in advance as possible.

In conclusion, the costs of shipping are an essential component of both logistics and supply chain management, both of which have an effect on the profitability of enterprises. Businesses can enhance their bottom line by better optimizing their operations and implementing strategies to lower shipping costs. This can be accomplished by first gaining an understanding of the elements that drive shipping costs and then executing those tactics.

No TV watching allowed!

 One of our Emerald distributors utilised a whiteboard and divided the room into four quadrants based on how much television our IBOs were permitted to watch. All new IBOs - or, rather, IBOs with pin levels below 2500 - were housed in the square, where watching television was not permitted.

I don't watch a lot of television, but I do enjoy a couple of reality series. If I'm at home, I'll watch the 6 p.m. news, and if I'm not, I'll watch the 11 p.m. news practically every night.

I usually watch 10 to 15 hours of television every week, so I'm not a big television watcher. Isn't it funny how numbers can be ironic? I'm confident that any IBO would tell me that I could take those same 10 to 15 hours per week that I spend watching television and turn them into earnings of $100,000 or more per year.

Yeah, I've been down that route a couple of times before as well.

Nothing any of my upline members said to me was going to make my TV watching habits change. When I was watching Survivor, Ambot would occasionally wander into the room and sneer at me, saying something to the effect of "How is watching that show going to bring me money?" It's a good moment to point out that Ambot watches significantly more television than I do. He enjoys seeing what he refers to as "adult animation." I call them by their names when I see them. Cartoons. What part of watching Southpark or The Simpsons is bringing in money for his Amway business is unclear.

For the life of me, I can't seem to get back to that sector. I'm not sure what pin levels the Emerald used in each quadrant, to be honest. I was simply shown one example of his expert mathematical equation. As an Emerald, he was permitted to spend the most of his free time watching television, regardless of where he was. Perhaps the most important question was never answered: how much free time he has in a week.

The wider picture is that the real reason the upline does not want IBOs to watch television is that they want to be able to control the information sources that their downline IBOs are exposed to. Any news or current affairs information, as well as stock market guidance, that IBOs get should come directly from their sponsor.

It's entirely up to you, upline bastards, to say whatever you want about watching television. I watch less television than the majority of you, and I have no plans to change that. In any case, when I'm at home watching TV, I'm not wasting money by spending $10 to attend an Amway meeting to hear the latest blatantly false information.

Hounded

 I'd like to believe that the last meeting Ambot attended was the last time he spent a dollar on the Amway organisation.

Unfortunately, this was not the case. He had not yet sought professional assistance in his decision to leave the cult.

In order to help an upline couple meet their next goal of becoming Platinum, someone upline who claimed to be a double eagle, and who may have been once but now only had one active leg, called Ambot and hound them into purchasing 150 PV worth of merchandise from them.

In spite of the fact that he had quit attending meetings, Ambot remained under the grip of the organisation and promptly pulled out his credit card and spent $500 on Amway products as soon as the phone call ended.

The bugger phoned Ambot again a few days later, this time to harry him into attending the next event.

Ambot explained that he couldn't afford it. In order for those bastards (my word, not his) to have enough PV to advance to the next level, I spent all of my money purchasing those things.

Oddly enough, despite the fact that we have severed all links with anything Amway, this lunatic still calls from time to time to inquire about Ambot's well-being.

Ambot is charming enough to him that he will engage in a lengthy conversation with her. In reality, the gentleman came to our home a few months ago to pick up a book that he had loaned us (and which we had never read previously). Because it wasn't on the Amway reading list, he had to keep it under wraps for the time being.

A Fascinating Narrative Full of Mysteries, Dangers, and Opportunities for Redemption

The novel "Hounded" is engrossing because it takes the reader on a fascinating trip that is full of mystery, suspense, and the search for forgiveness. This riveting story, penned by a well-known author, is a compelling combination of psychological thriller, criminal fiction, and a dash of the otherworldly. The novel "Hounded" is likely to keep readers on the edge of their seats from the very beginning to the very end thanks to its well-developed characters, sophisticated narrative twists, and blend of genres.

"Hounded" is a drama that takes place in a sleepy coastal village and centers on the life of John Collins, a former police officer who is tormented by a catastrophe from his past. John's life begins to spiral out of control after he is involved in a mystery occurrence that causes him to lose his wife. As a result, he decides to retire from the police force. After being tormented by feelings of remorse and loss, he eventually turns inside, drinking away his sorrows and isolating himself from the rest of the world

However, John's self-imposed seclusion is broken up when he gets a mysterious letter from an unknown sender. The letter is full of enigmatic messages. John's life was completely turned upside down, but the letter that he received gave him a glimmer of hope by claiming to have information concerning the truth behind the death of his wife. He starts on a risky trip, fueled by the promise of closure and redemption, to uncover the mysteries that have haunted him for years. He hopes that by doing so, he will finally be able to put the past behind him.

As John goes more into the research, he comes to the realization that the truth is much more ominous than he could have possibly envisioned at any point in time. The more he moves forward, the more he uncovers a complex network of lies, treachery, and covert objectives that go well beyond the killing of his wife. Along the journey, he comes across a cast of mysterious characters, each with their own reasons and mysteries, as he tries to disentangle the murky threads that connect them together. Along the way, he tries to figure out who is responsible for what.

subjects Investigated: "Hounded" dives into a variety of interesting subjects that strike a chord with readers, including the following:

Redemption is the central theme of this book, which follows the protagonist as he confronts his previous transgressions and strives to make up for those transgressions. The metamorphosis of John from a broken and guilt-ridden man into someone who finds the strength to confront his demons and seek justice is something that readers are able to see via John's journey.

The story revolves on the central themes of loss and sadness throughout its entirety. The difficulty that John had in coping with his wife's passing and the emotional turmoil that followed is illustrative of the multifaceted and devastation that such events can cause. The tale is given more depth by the investigation of mourning, which also enables the audience to feel empathy for the protagonist's suffering.

Themes of Betrayal and Trust Permeate the Entire narrative Themes of betrayal and trust permeate the entire narrative and play an important role. John finds out that even the people he considers to be his closest friends and family may have secrets or ulterior purposes. The investigation of trust and betrayal adds layers of tension and suspense to the narrative, leaving readers guessing about the true motives of the individuals and adding to the overall sense of unpredictability.

Mysteries and Thrills: The television show "Hounded" deftly spins a tangled web of mysteries and thrills over its whole. The author does a good job of creating a sense of dread and mystery in the story, which keeps the reader guessing and makes them hungry to find out the truth alongside the protagonist. The progressive disclosure of the secrets raises the stakes, which helps to ensure that readers will be compelled to turn the pages of this book.

The novel questions the concept of truth and investigates the ways in which vision may mold our comprehension of both events and individuals. Its title refers to the power that perception possesses. It explores the concept that our interpretations and judgments may not always line up with reality, hence blurring the lines between right and wrong.

The novel "Hounded" is compelling because it deftly combines aspects of mystery, suspense, and psychological depth throughout its pages. The narrative will hold the reader's attention until the very last page with its well-developed characters, sophisticated plot twists, and examination of topics such as redemption, loss, and trust. The reader will find themselves engrossed in an exciting tale that tests their preconceived notions and keeps them guessing until the very end of the book as the protagonist sets off on a journey to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of his wife.

Held Hostage

 I had quit going to cult meetings a long time before then. This was revealed to me after the fact by Ambot.

On one occasion, during an Amway meeting, the Platinum informed everyone in the room that no one would be allowed to leave until he had a check for the next function.

Ambot was sufficiently enraged to take on the pretentious pile of trash Platinum in a fight. That is a significant no-no for an independent business owner.

NEVER, EVER QUESTION YOUR UPLINE!

He snapped at the sack of crap, telling him that he would write him a check and then withdraw all of the money from his account, causing the cheque to fail. The Platinum began yelling at him, saying, "You're writing a check that will bounce, and you consider yourself a business owner?" As Ambot confronted him, he pointed out that it was against the law to deny people the right to leave on their own accord. People are being told that they cannot leave until they pay him money. He was essentially holding everyone at the gathering hostage until they paid him the ransom money he had demanded.

Perhaps Ambot would not have responded in this manner if the Amway meeting had gone in a different direction, but this was the night the cult leader led his followers in a prayerfest, praying that I would find another guy and leave Ambot.

Ambot never signed the check, and he rushed out of the meeting by pushing past the bouncer's downline flunkie who was standing guard at the doorway. The cult members imitated their leader's actions by yelling jeers in his direction. After being allowed to leave, it appears that they stayed and completed their checks before being allowed to leave.

Dealing with a psychotic cult leader who attempted to impose his particular beliefs on his followers, as well as being held prisoner, became too much for Ambot to bear.

That was the last gathering he attended before he passed away.

A Horrifying Account of Captivity and Survival While Being Held Hostage

Introduction:

The image that comes to mind when you hear the phrase "held hostage" is one of people being imprisoned against their will and held against their will against their will, frequently while being exposed to threats, assault, and psychological manipulation. This traumatic experience of captivity and survival has been portrayed in a variety of real-life situations as well as fictional works, which has put light on the physical and psychological toll that it has on the victims. In this piece, we will delve into the complexities of being held hostage, analyzing the catastrophic impact that it has on individuals as well as the tactics that are taken to endure and survive in such unimaginable conditions.

An Understanding of Hostage scenarios Hostage scenarios can emerge from a variety of contexts, including but not limited to criminal crimes, acts of terrorism, political upheaval, and even household disagreements. In these hypothetical situations, hostages are innocent people who are made into victims after being taken captive by force by individuals or groups looking for leverage, ransom, or other specific demands. The length of time that a person is held against their will as a hostage can vary from hours to days, weeks, or even months, which amplifies the dread, tension, and uncertainty that they are experiencing.

Impact on Hostages' Psychological State The hostages' mental state will be severely and permanently altered as a result of the ordeal. Hostages frequently experience a wide range of feelings, including fear, worry, helplessness, and a persistent feeling that they are about to be hurt or killed. They run the risk of developing the psychological phenomena known as the Stockholm Syndrome, which occurs when hostages build an emotional attachment with their captors as a means of survival. This intricate psychological reaction is brought on by a confluence of factors, including dread, isolation, and the kidnappers' ability to manipulate the hostage.

Abuse, Both Physical and Emotional: Hostages are frequently put through ordeals that are made even more traumatic by their captors' use of both physical and emotional violence against them. Beatings, torture, being deprived of food or drink, and being locked up in deplorable conditions are all examples of forms of physical abuse. The hostage is subjected to ongoing humiliation, psychological manipulation, and threats, all of which serve to further break down their spirit and will to resist. This type of treatment is known as emotional abuse.

Hostages frequently make use of a wide variety of coping mechanisms and survival techniques in order to make it through the ordeal of being held captive. These may include discovering their own inner power, establishing a connection with their captors in order to guarantee that their fundamental requirements are met, and keeping the hope that they may one day be rescued or set free. Some hostages develop a good sense of observation, which helps them hunt for opportunities to communicate discreetly with authorities or with other captives.

Negotiation and Rescue Operations: The resolution of hostage situations generally rely on negotiation, or in more extreme cases, on rescue operations carried out by law enforcement or specialist military units. These operations may be carried out by law enforcement or by specialized military forces. Skilled negotiators strive to develop dialogue with the people holding them captive, with the goal of better comprehending the captors' demands, motivations, and possible paths to a peaceful conclusion. During a rescue operation, rigorous preparation, the gathering of intelligence, and coordinated activities are required to securely extract hostages while also neutralizing their captors.

Post-Hostage Recovery: Being able to say that you have survived a hostage scenario is just the first step on a long and difficult path to recovery. Post-traumatic stress disorder (also known as PTSD), sadness, anxiety, and survivor's guilt are all frequent psychological effects that call for attention and treatment from trained professionals. Hostages frequently struggle to readjust to society, reconstruct their lives, and come to terms with the traumatic experiences they encountered after being held captive.

The hardship of being held hostage is a horrific ordeal that leaves those who go through it with a lasting influence on their lives. The mental and physical abuse that is inflicted during captivity, in addition to the unpredictability of the situation and the constant state of anxiety, makes it an almost insurmountable obstacle to overcome. On the other hand, many of the hostages exhibit an incredible amount of resilience by depending on coping mechanisms and survival skills to help them get through their captivity and ultimately live. It is imperative that society recognize and assist the recovery of hostages, giving them with the essential resources and compassionate treatment they require in order to recover from the traumatic experiences they have been through.

Happy Thanksgiving!

 In light of the fact that it is Thanksgiving, I figured I could write one post that was not devoted to swearing out my former upline.

To follow up on my previous thread about how IBOs are litterbugs who leave their Amway garbage all over hotel and school auditoriums, Tex brought up a valid point that litterbugs can be found everywhere, and he mentioned sporting events, so I decided to create a thread that was completely unrelated to why my former upline are a bunch of assholes.

Oops. I couldn't help but curse them out once or twice!

I believe that when someone does not like someone or something, they are far more likely to point out the flaws. I certainly didn't enjoy being hauled away to Amway meetings, and I was always able to find something to criticise about the organisation. When I was forced to mingle with Ambots, the phrase "don't be negative" certainly didn't apply to me.

So, let me attempt to think about litterbugs at sporting events for a moment.. Due to the fact that I am not a big sports enthusiast, I only attend a sporting event once every ten years or so. It only appears to be happening more frequently! I remember my parents taking me to a Mets game at Shea Stadium in New York City many years ago. However, I don't recall any sports fans trash, but then again, I wasn't looking for it. One of the things I remember is a fly ball heading our way that we all jumped to our feet to try to catch, but it ended up higher in the bleachers than where we were sitting at the time. There was only one other thing on my mind: I wanted a pretzel, but my father insisted on buying me a hot dog instead. So, because I didn't want it, I went hungry. What kind of patriotism is it to refuse to eat a hot dog at a baseball game in your hometown?

In my pre-Ambot days, the mother of the person I'm seeing has tickets to a Rams game at Anaheim Stadium, and she generously provides them to him so that he may take me with him to the game. I'm not a football enthusiast, and the only thing I recall about the game was that the Rams were facing a team from Arizona - is there an NFL franchise based in Phoenix? I don't recall seeing any litter this time, but I wasn't looking for it either. There are two things I recall. We joined a massive mob of admirers walking to a barrier that had been partially demolished wherever he had parked in the parking lot. The people in front of us climbed over the fence and into the parking lot. So here I am, dressed in a blue jean little skirt, you know, one of those cute little numbers that serve no function other than to wow the guy you're with, and I have to scale a fence to get to my destination. Yeah, there were a couple of other young females ahead of me who were all dressed in a similar manner for their boyfriends, who I believe all enjoyed the sight of the three of us climbing the fence together. The other thing I recall is that the Rams were defeated. I don't recall any trash, but jumping a fence in a tiny skirt brings up a lifetime of memories. I don't remember any litter.

What do you think about the Rose Bowl Parade in Pasadena? We don't even think Anna Banana would be insane enough to get out on the street 24 hours in advance and camp out on her deck chair. Waking up at 2 or 3 a.m. to drive down to the downtown area and find a parking spot and a prime walkway is an entirely different storey. I'm sure there must have been rubbish all over the place from the 24 hour party, but I don't recall seeing any of it myself. Not quite as much as the year I recall a pick-up truck travelling up and down Colorado Boulevard with a guy in the back pounding on his drum set in the middle of the road. Perhaps it was another year when Ambot didn't want to be a part of the traffic congestion on the road we planned to use, so he chose to search out a "shortcut" that probably added another hour to our journey time. You can put your trust in me. Immediately following the procession, all routes out of Pasadena are backed up for at least an hour.

As a result, Anna Banana possesses subjective memory. Any time something is associated with a negative memory, I will remember every last detail of that encounter. If it's anything enjoyable, I'll recall the good parts.

Among the many things for which I can be glad today is the fact that I no longer lose money in Amway.

Grand Opening a Bust!

 In order for everyone to know that we were Amway distributors and that they could order products from us, our upline instructed us to host a "grand opening" as soon as possible after starting our Amway firm. This was also a good moment to sign up new Independent Business Owners (IBOs) who were interested in beginning their own company.

We decided on a date and decided to host a BBQ in our backyard on that day. Amway does not sell the conventional barbecue fare such as hamburgers, buns, condiments, salad, cake, ice cream, and so on. Instead, Amway sells a variety of other products. Given Ambot's high expectations for a large turnout, we headed to Costco to load up on supplies for the BBQ.

The total cost of groceries for the BBQ Grand Opening is approximately $150.

A large number of individuals, including all of our neighbours within a one-block radius, received invites from us, which we printed on our computer and distributed. Ambot went door to door, interacted with the neighbours, and handed out invitations to those who answered the door. A couple of folks who lived further away and happened to be passing past our house when we were outside gardening were also targeted by the sniper.

A reception was held in the afternoon from 1pm to 5pm for those who attended the grand opening. Our first visitor arrived about 1:00 p.m. He had other plans, so he only intended to stop in for a burger and a look at some of the Amway products, as well as to learn a little bit about the company's operations.

Actually, with the exception of one acquaintance who signed up and then quit a couple of weeks later, this gentleman was the closest we ever came to establishing a downline in our company. This gentleman attended a board meeting and expressed interest in, as well as admiration for, the IBOs and their fakey nicey nice performance. Then a mutual friend informed him that Amway was a hoax, and he withdrew his support. Ambot was enraged at our acquaintance for having the audacity to suggest that Amway is a scam.

It's amusing how he now concurs with that statement!

After that, the backyard was deafeningly quiet for a few hours. Ambot went into the home and sat in front of the television. Things began to pick up around 4 p.m. Some of our elderly neighbours who were in need of food were delighted to be invited to our home. One of them even took notice of some of the things on a table and proudly, disgustingly exclaimed, "This is Amway!". A neighbour and his two young sons joined us for dinner as well. The gentleman had never heard of Amway before, so Ambot provided him with an in-depth explanation of the company. He was certain he'd discovered a promising prospect. Wrong.

The bottom line is that the grand opening was ineffective in terms of marketing the Amway business. A complete and utter failure. Fortunately, most of the food we purchased could either be frozen or had a long enough shelf life to allow us to use it later.

A few members of the upline stopped by that evening, and when they learned that the grand opening had failed to bring in any prospects or customers, they tried all they could to persuade us to host a second grand opening as soon as they could. Nope. It never took place. We could have hosted a million grand openings and neither the attendance nor the results would have changed a bit. When we were active with Amway several years previously, we experienced exactly the same scenario. We invited everyone we knew as well as a large number of individuals we didn't know, and only a handful of people showed up for the free meal, which did not result in any sales or the recruitment of new IBOs.

Unfortunately, Ambot didn't learn his lesson the first time around and kept on going. How did that quote turn out for you? Those who do not learn from the past are bound to repeat it in the future.

Getting Permission

 Ensure that his followers understood that they must "submit to upline" and ask permission before doing anything, including attending family functions, getting married, having children, purchasing a house, purchasing a car, moving or renovating their home or quitting their job were all important to the Platinum cult leader. So, for each life decision that most responsible adults can figure out on their own, they must "ask permission" from the cult before making that decision.

Ambot and I came to a choice about our house that was causing us a lot of headaches. It was never completed. One day, I'm finally enraged enough to approach him and inquire as to why everything is taking such an inordinate amount of time. Apparently, Ambot inquired about permission from the Platinum piece of shit and was counselled against going through with it.

What!?

Platinum, you miserable son of a bitch and pompous sack of shit, you've been fucked! This is where you go over the line. This is completely out of your jurisdiction. On the mortgage, I don't see your name listed. I don't see your signature anywhere on the deed. Particularly concerning our home, I don't see you donating any cash on a regular basis to the monthly bills associated with it.

I informed Ambot that I was not going to have any further dealings with that meddling fucker and that I would not be dragged out to any more cult meetings as a result.

To cut a long tale short, Ambot quit the cult not long after this incident occurred, saying that our friendship was more important to him than the cult's mission, and the refurbishment was completed. It's a lot quieter. The air quality has improved. I'm no longer having trouble breathing because of the medication. There will be no more tension. In addition, we are saving money.

This is just one of those frightening examples where I needed something done to my living environment to make it healthier for me, but the cult leader decided that I should be sick and unhappy instead, and influenced Ambot in the belief that this would cause me to have some sort of control issue over myself and my surroundings. Ambot came to his senses and sought professional help to assist him in quitting the cult, and those troublemaking bastards were banished from his life as a result of his efforts to save our marriage.

Guide to Mastering the Art of Requesting Permission

In the course of our daily lives, we frequently discover that we are in need of permission in order to gain access to resources, explore opportunities, or make significant choices. Mastering the skill of acquiring permission, whether it's called obtaining consent, seeking authorization, or winning approval, is essential for successfully navigating both personal and professional arenas. This is true whether you're talking about gaining approval, requesting authorisation, or seeking consent. In this in-depth guide, we will discuss the intricacies of requesting permission, the etiquette that is required, as well as techniques to maximize your chances of receiving a positive response.

Recognizing the Significance of Permission Respectful conduct, ethical conduct, and responsible decision-making all require a fundamental understanding of the significance of permission. It does so by acknowledging the rights and boundaries of others while simultaneously enabling collaboration, consent, and relationships that are harmonious. Asking for permission reveals maturity, sensitivity, and a willingness to adhere to established conventions, regardless of whether it concerns personal relationships, intellectual property, professional pursuits, or legal considerations.

Identifying the Different Types of Permission 

a) Explicit Permission: In order to obtain this type of permission, you must have direct communication with the relevant authority or individual and receive their explicit assent. It frequently entails written agreements, contracts, or formal requests, all of which are designed to ensure mutual understanding and legal protection.

b) Implied Permission: Implied permission is drawn from established social practices, reasonable expectations, or tacit agreements. 

c) Express Permission: Express permission is given directly by the individual. Even though it is not directly expressed, it is possible to infer consent based on the surrounding circumstances, cultural norms, and previous contacts.

Developing Competence in Effective Communication 

a) Clarity and Conciseness: When requesting permission, it is important to state your request in a manner that is both clear and concise. Outline the objective, the benefits, and the potential impact in a way that is easily understood by the receiver so that they may make a decision that is based on accurate information.

b) Active Listening: Pay attention to the worries, questions, or conditions that are presented by the person whose permission you are requesting, and be receptive to what they have to say. Listening attentively displays that you respect the other person, helps you better grasp what they are saying, and gives you the ability to respond appropriately to any questions or concerns they may have.

b) Empathy and persuasion: Put yourself in the position of the person whose permission you are requesting and try to understand their perspective. Gain an understanding of their point of view, concerns, and what drives them. Personalizing your request so that it emphasizes how it corresponds with their interests, values, or ambitions will significantly increase the likelihood that they will say yes to your proposition.

Developing Trust and Credibility 

a) Establishing Rapport: Make it a top priority to cultivate relationships that are founded on trust, respect, and dependability. Establishing a foundation of trust will make it much simpler to ask for permission when it is necessary, therefore it is important to consistently display integrity, fulfill commitments, and create open communication.

b) Demonstrating Competence: Displaying expertise, competence, and a track record of achievement in the relevant area boosts the confidence that other people have in your capabilities. When people believe you are competent and capable of responsibly handling the opportunity or resource that you have asked, they are more likely to give you permission to do what you want to do.

Recognizing and Accepting Limits and Rejection:

a) Coming to Terms with Being Rejected Respectfully: Not all permissions will be given even if they are requested. In the event that your request is denied, it is important to keep your cool, show appreciation for the reviewer's time, and inquire about receiving input that can be used to make future requests more successful. It is important to refrain from being defensive or harboring resentment toward others because doing so could potentially harm relationships and future possibilities.

b) Recognizing Boundaries: It is important to be aware of the limitations, restrictions, and boundaries that others have. Be aware that certain requests may be turned down for valid reasons, such as a lack of resources or a requirement to comply with a law or regulation, or even due to your own individual circumstances. Building trust and increasing one's likelihood of being granted permission for future activities are two benefits that come from showing proper regard for established limits.

The Digital Terrain and the Issue of Permission:

a) Proper online etiquette dictates that one should always ask for permission before publishing or sharing content online. It is essential to pay attention to and honor the privacy settings, terms of service, and intellectual property rights. Always get someone's permission before revealing their personal information or using content that is protected by intellectual property rights, and provide credit where it's due.

b) Obtaining Digital Permissions When requesting permission in the digital realm, you should think about using formal procedures such as sending an email, filling out an online consent form, or using a digital signature. Clearly state your desire and ensure

conformity with the relevant legislation, such as the laws protecting personal information.

The ability to successfully obtain permission is a crucial talent that can improve both personal and professional relationships, as well as create teamwork and encourage ethical behavior. We can traverse the intricacies of consent with grace and integrity if we understand the nuances of permission, cultivate effective communication skills, and respect boundaries. This will allow us to manage the complexities of consent. Keep in mind that asking for permission is not an indication of weakness but rather a demonstration of respect for others and a dedication to ethical behavior on your part.