The Healing Echo: Resilience Through Community and How Network Marketing Resparked a Journey of Inner Renewal

n a world flooded with digital interactions, we need a force that brings back authentic togetherness. Back in the day, religious institutions brought people together in real life, offering support and guidance. In Vietnam, where strong community ties are part of our culture, the idea of meeting up and staying connected in person still really hits home.

Western and westernized societies have become increasingly secular, with people prioritizing independence over connection. Consider this: in 1850, only 1 in 100 Americans lived alone – today, that number has skyrocketed to 1 in 7. In the 1970s, about 1 in 3 people spent time with their neighbors, but that trend has completely reversed.

Let’s dig a little deeper. Today, 50% of humanity lives in cities, where people are, on average, 25% wealthier than those in rural areas. Yet, despite financial gains, urban living tends to prioritize individual desires—”I want to do what I want”—over communal connection. And while this pattern is similar across industrialized nations, including the Netherlands where I grew up, the data suggests that greater autonomy does not necessarily lead to greater happiness.

The real issue is that social connection doesn’t happen automatically—it has to be intentionally woven into our lives. Otherwise, we risk losing it. So I wondered, what can we do about it?

In another blog post, I’ll explore scientific research on balancing autonomy with meaningful social connection somewhat deeper. Currently, I’d like to share my thoughts on a particular form of community building. Many of us default to doing what we want in the moment rather than fostering relationships. Autonomy, at its core, is about self-governance – choosing our own paths. But when everyone prioritizes their own direction above all else, disconnection becomes the norm. And as the data shows, that’s not good for our long-term happiness.

I’m no exception – in fact, I might even be on the more extreme end of the spectrum. I’ve experienced this firsthand. Growing up in the Netherlands with older Asian parents who carried the weight of Vietnam War trauma deeply shaped my mindset and coping mechanisms. On one hand, I have a strong drive to protect my autonomy; on the other, I’m naturally drawn to deep, meaningful connections. This duality seems to be rooted in both my biological makeup and the experience of navigating two cultures which has profoundly influenced how I relate to the world.

This tension is even more pronounced in Western, highly-educated, and relatively affluent societies. While I don’t consider myself traditionally wealthy, I recognize the privilege of financial flexibility and my ability to live simply. Yet, as I observed in highly developed, Westernized Asian countries like Japan and South Korea, disconnection takes a heavy toll.

During my recent visits, I was struck by the near absence of children on the streets of Tokyo every time – an eerie reflection of shifting societal dynamics. During my recent visits, I was struck every time by the near absence of children on the streets of Tokyo—an eerie reflection of shifting societal dynamics. Together with my best friend, I connected with Japanese men and women who remain single and listened to their struggles in forming deep, meaningful relationships beyond mere pragmatic benefits. In a culture that values individual success and self-reliance, many find themselves isolated, with suicide rates remaining alarmingly high, particularly among those without strong resilience or a reliable support system.

I asked myself: With religious institutions fragmenting and the norms and values they once upheld fading, what are alternative ways? Instead of passively accepting disconnection, we need an intentional approach—one that guides us toward personal transformation, mental resilience. Even though there are multiple layers to be tackled, one of the ways is creating deeper community bonds. I wanted to reconnect with my country of origin and explore how I relate to it. But fate had other plans, forcing me to confront deeper layers within myself—layers I never expected to be triggered so profoundly.

Embracing Community in Vietnamese Culture: Where Family Bonds and Social Connections Foster Belonging and Resilience

Vietnamese culture is celebrated for its emphasis on community and collective success. From vibrant family gatherings to supportive neighborhoods that rally during challenging times, this spirit of unity is central to our identity and mental health.

Growing up in a Western country like The Netherlands—which was once a predominantly Christian society—I observed that as traditional norms and values faded into the background, vulnerability often led to isolation and increased loneliness during hardships. The Netherlands has become increasingly secular, relying on overburdened mental health facilities that are frequently understaffed and operating beyond capacity. As a result, workplaces have become the primary venues where people seek friendship, belonging, and personal development in areas such as wealth, health, and spirit. Unfortunately, many companies do not prioritize personal development or extend support to colleagues outside of work, leaving individuals deprived of inspiration and feeling disconnected and misunderstood—especially those who fall off the social ladder or become unemployed, which further heightens their risk of isolation.

While network marketing often suffers from a negative reputation, legitimate, long-standing companies in the industry embody a strong communal ethos. Culture is celebrated for its emphasis on community and collective success. From vibrant family gatherings to the supportive neighborhoods that rally during challenging times, this spirit of unity is central to Vietnamese identity. In this network marketing form I stumbled upon, this communal ethos is reflected in every conversation and interaction, making it good place for (re)building both personal resilience and professional growth. Here, every member’s contribution matters, and every shared experience reinforces the bonds that drive us forward.

From Despair to Determination: How a Chance Encounter with Phuoc Hung Pham Reclaimed My Health

I came to Vietnam looking to connect with my roots and dive into the local community scene. But life threw me a curveball: a scooter accident left me with a messed-up face, and a botched skin treatment only made things worse. The physical pain was tough, but what really got to me was how it shook my sense of self, bringing up feelings of deep loss.

In those first few weeks, I was a wreck—crying at the drop of a hat, feeling lost. Then, anger kicked in. I whacked my pillow until it was flat as a pancake, then left it by the window to bask in the sun. That release turned into determination. I sought help, focused on healing, and dragged myself back to the gym to speed up my recovery.

While searching for a gym, I stumbled upon a morning ritual group that was part of a network marketing setup. Born in the Netherlands but with Vietnamese roots, I had come to Hanoi—my late mom’s hometown—hoping to find family. Not knowing anyone, I felt pretty alone in this bustling city. This group piqued my interest, and I started to see it as more than just a money-making opportunity. It was about personal growth and building a sense of community—values that run deep in Vietnamese culture, even as cities like Hanoi rapidly modernize.

Being part of this group reminded me of a personal development community I once co-led with friends. It’s all about creating spaces where everyone’s voice matters, celebrating wins, and turning setbacks into growth opportunities—all while building a connected, thriving life.

Network marketing might not be everyone’s cup of tea business-wise, but it can offer financial perks for those who dive in. More importantly, it fosters collaboration and support, creating an environment where people can grow both personally and professionally. For many, it’s not even about the money—sometimes, just connecting with a few folks can get you the products you love for free. With the right mindset, this model can lead to meaningful relationships.

A turning point for me was meeting Phuoc Hung Pham, a former Olympic athlete turned personal trainer. His compassionate approach and focus on holistic well-being really resonated with me. Inspired by his guidance, I added morning routines, healthy shakes, mindfulness, and regular workouts into my daily life, helping me bounce back faster.

Seeing Phuoc’s resilience and his team’s dedication to helping others made me want to support their mission. Their approach to personal development and compassionate strength mirrored my own journey to boost mental agility and resilience. This experience reinforced the importance of connecting with ourselves and others as a path to healing and growth.

This journey taught me that even when life throws unexpected challenges your way, embracing community and personal growth can lead to profound transformation and a renewed sense of purpose.

Cultivating Connection: Rebuilding Discipline and Well-Being Through Network Marketing

Phuoc’s genuine likability and approachable nature made me feel like I’d would want to support his network marketing business—Even though I recognize its financial potential, my primary interest lies in the benefits it provides beyond money. His business is built on the Herbalife brand, which is a longstanding multi-level marketing company with a proven track record in promoting health and wellness. In Vietnam, registration as a distributor is free, with no minimum order requirement—either initially or on a recurring basis. I checked the company’s history and track record. Similarly, in the Netherlands, the process involves only a small registration fee along with an introductory package. This makes it easily accessible and highlights its benefits beyond money as a clear selling point.

The morning get-togethers, focused on cleansing rituals, nutritious shakes, and exercise, foster a strong sense of belonging and a shared vision for improving both mental and physical health. These sessions sharpen social skills, reinforce healthy habits, and remind me of the health and wealth masterminds I once organized with my former personal development group, PDC, back in Amsterdam.

His mentorship, it reminded me of the importance of:

• Inclusivity: Creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and valued.
• Resilience and Adaptability: Much like athletes bouncing back from setbacks, Phuoc gave me valuable reminders of how to turn adversity into strength, helping me rebuild confidence and adopt a proactive mindset.
• Holistic Health and Well-Being: His guidance went beyond business strategies, emphasizing the need to care for both mental and physical health. This approach encouraged me to incorporate mindfulness, morning cleansing and exercise into my daily routine, accelerating my recovery.
• The Power of Being Heard: In network marketing, sharing ideas and experiences is essential. Phuoc’s readiness to listen and share his own vulnerabilities created a supportive space where I felt genuinely understood.

At its core, network marketing offers rewards that extend far beyond financial gain. It nurtures:

• Empowerment and Self-Efficacy: Every small victory reinforces your belief in your own abilities, fostering a sense of personal power.
• A Sense of Belonging: Similar to close-knit religious communities, a network marketing team creates a space where you feel truly seen and valued—especially important in a culture like Vietnam’s that cherishes community.
• Enhanced Communication and Emotional Resilience: Regular interactions with peers and mentors build social skills and resilience, turning individual challenges into collective progress.

Moreover, there’s a meaningful parallel between network marketing and the supportive practices found in many religious traditions:

• Shared Values and Purpose: Just as religious communities unite around common beliefs, network marketing brings together people with a shared vision for personal growth and success, be it wealth or health or a combination of it.
• Rituals of Consistency: Daily routines—whether following up with prospects or participating in team meetings—mirror the structured rituals that strengthen community bonds.
• Mentorship and Support: Seasoned network marketers guide newcomers much like experienced members of a congregation, fostering an environment where everyone can thrive.

Together, these elements not only transform financial opportunities into a platform for personal and communal growth but also provide a nurturing space where we can rebuild, reconnect, and truly flourish.

Conclusion

From my perspective, the West has become a collection of secular states focused on personal, individualistic gains and gratification, where traditional values like supporting one another during hardships have faded into the background. In contrast, joining a community can foster a sense of belonging and encourage personal growth and the right mindset.

I was raised with Buddhist values, though I don’t consider myself religious. Some might label me spiritual or agnostic, but I firmly believe that we all need some form of spiritual support to develop a deeper connection with ourselves and increase our self-awareness across various areas of life. I’ve traveled the world, visiting countless churches, mosques, and synagogues, while living in six different countries in my life. In my career, I’ve worked for both large multinational companies and smaller firms. Each community I’ve encountered—be it within a company or a religious institution—has had its own unique vision, mission, and slogan, from “Be Better, Be Bosch” to Nike’s “Just Do It.” Life, in my view, is one grand experiment. It’s finite, meaning our time is limited, and though the process of learning through experience can be daunting, it’s a necessary, inevitable step that we all must face sooner or later.

I understand that network marketing is often met with skepticism—some even rebel against established religious systems. I, too, enjoy challenging the norm, yet I have discovered the value of balance: using a structured system to cultivate awareness and help others grow. I have coached people and consulted with psychologists during times of hardship, and I believe that nothing compares to a community that prioritizes supporting one another in becoming the best versions of ourselves.

When executed by a reputable party, network marketing can serve as a catalyst for personal transformation—especially when it aligns with cultural values, psychology, and community spirit. In Vietnam, where every individual’s contribution is cherished, the principles of network marketing resonate. My personal encounter with Phuoc Hung Pham, an inspiring retired Olympic athlete, stands as a testament to the power of mentorship, resilience, and the profound impact genuine human connection can have on our health and well-being.

Whether you’re recovering from a setback or simply looking to enhance your professional life, remember that success lies not just in numbers but in the shared journey of growth, support, and empowerment. Embrace every step, learn from every challenge, and know that when you’re heard, you’re never alone.

I decided to help my friend Phuoc Hung Pham with his morning discipline program here in Hanoi. His network marketing business, which blends Vietnamese philosophy with his experience as a disciplined professional athlete and is built on the Herbalife brand, offers benefits that extend beyond financial gains. If you’re interested in joining his morning discipline program or are curious about expanding your network through his business, feel free to connect via [email protected].

One of the reasons I assist Phuoc in building his network both locally and internationally is that I value the meaningful friendships and holistic well-being that come from a community based on genuine human connection. Network marketing is one way to create an additional stream of income. Each method of building passive or semi-passive income—whether through real estate or digital means—comes with its own set of challenges. I think network marketing can be fun, but if you are serious, you’ll have to build a thick skin and become better at handling rejection. In other blogs, I will explore mindset, resilience, the art of not giving a f*ck, and other ways of building income streams.