Lifestyle
MLM Cult Tactics You Should Know
It might seem a little hyperbolic to say that MLMs (multi-level marketing schemes) are cults. It’s not. MLM cult tactics are very real and very dangerous.
Much of our collective understanding of what makes a cult is based on what we’ve seen in the news. Mass suicides, violent stand-offs with law enforcement, and jumping on Oprah’s couch can all be traced back to those wacky, scary cults.
MLMs just sell make-up, diet shakes, or leggings. How are they anything like those scary, wacky cults?
MLMs, while they may not shave their heads and commit mass suicide, rely on tactics that are nearly identical to those very same cults. Here are some MLM cult tactics you really should know.
They Prey On Vulnerable People
You are at your highest risk of being recruited into a cult or MLM if you’re in a vulnerable state. These states can be financial pressure, a dead-end job, loneliness, and others. It’s when you’re feeling low and desperate for help that attracts these organizations like blood in the water.
A cult or an MLM will approach you with a solution to your problem, and they’ll do it with a smile.
While a cult targets spirituality, MLMs target finance and work. They will lure vulnerable people in with a seemingly safe, welcoming, and exciting environment. This is what you’ve been looking for, they’ll say.
They Promise Secrets To Success
Every MLM and cult member is told: “all you have to do is A, B, and C and you’ll be successful.” For cults, it’s enlightenment or freedom. For MLMs, it’s financial independence or self-reliance. These organizations make these grand promises if you follow everything you’re told.
If you aren’t seeing success, well, I guess you just have “a lack of faith,” “negative mindset,” or “you didn’t work hard enough.”
Charismatic “Guru” Leaders Are Infallible
The leader can do no wrong. They are geniuses and they are sharing their wisdom with you. Their words are repeated, memorized, and cherished. Any challenge to them would be unthinkable. They are to be protected and lionized.
The most notable example would be NXIVM’s Keith Raniere. A former Amway executive, Raniere turned his self-help MLM into a literal cult and then a cult within a cult. But that’s an entirely different, far more disturbing story.
They Tell You To ‘Reject The Haters’
One MLM cult tactic that is disturbingly transparent would be their insistence of purging anyone who doesn’t buy into the message.
Cults tell you that the group is your family and friends and that your actual family and friends are hurting you. MLMs call them “negative people” or “haters” that are “standing in the way of your success.
This is how these organizations control the information you take in. If they can limit as much of the “outside world” as they can, the easier their indoctrination can take hold.
Shady Structures Keep Members Hooked
There need to be incentives to keep people in line. MLMs often promise confusing and repetitive promotional structures. This keeps followers believing and always moving up the never-ending “ladder of success.”
Amway, for example, has “pin levels” like Silver, Gold, Ruby, Pearl, Sapphire, Emerald, Diamond, Executive Diamond, and so on. ItWorks uses Double Diamond, Triple Diamond, Presidential Diamond. NXIVM had different colored sashes. Having a tangible reward works wonders as an incentive.
Whenever the pyramid shape begins to reveal itself (and it will), MLMs use the straw man argument that “all corporations have a pyramid shape too.”
Sure, Jan. Except those employees are promoted based on performance, not how many units they sell.
Fear Tactics Are Standard
MLMs and cults will use passive-aggressive techniques to shame, slander, and discredit members who speak up or try to leave. They will threaten to take everything away from you. They exploit Dr. Karl Albrecht’s 5 Basic Fears and often with success.
You’re either with them or against them. And they mean it.
It Takes Over Your Life
MLM members are intensely pressured to speak about their company and experience in order to convert others to join. They will incessantly promote or mention their MLM in every conversation. They’ll use MLM products and discuss them with you ad nauseam.
You will live and breathe the MLM, much like you would in a cult. Your entire world is the MLM and you must share it with the world.
LuLaRoe demanded control of their members’ social media, weight, marriages, and more. If anything positive happened in your life, it was #BecauseOfLuLaRoe.
They Demand Absolute Devotion
There’s no room in an MLM for dissent. They will tell you that absolute devotion is the key to success. Even when confronted with facts, a true believer will reject them. They may even dig deeper.
The FLDS, the infamous polygamist cult led by Warren Jeffs, instructed its followers to “keep sweet.” This meant to “demonstrate loyalty and absolute obedience to someone, even if it means unspeakable harm.”
The MLM Cult Tactics Are Very Real
MLMs need to use cult tactics in order to sustain themselves. This is ironic considering that MLMs are inherently unsustainable. In order to blind members from the scam, MLMs have to radicalize them. Cult tactics are tried and true.
Humans are predictable sheep. Predators take advantage of that. MLMs and cults are predatory organizations that harm the most vulnerable among us.
Take note of these MLM cult tactics and protect yourself from these incredibly harmful organizations.
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BedStory
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Specifications
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Mattress Sizes
The BedStory Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress comes in four sizes: twin, full, queen, and king. Plus, it comes in 12 or 14-inch sizes, too.
Mattress Layers
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Their memory foam infuses gel and bamboo, making it feel cool on your body as you sleep soundly. It’s also made out of knitted fabric to let the mattress breathe. Additionally, you don’t have to worry about odors since it has moisture-wicking and odor-reducing properties. Plus, it also dissipates heat.
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Mattress Expansion
Since this is a bed in a box, it will take time for your brand-new mattress to expand to its original state. The BedStory mattress expands within 48 to 72 hours.
Delivery, Warranty, and Return
Expect your brand-new BedStory Mattress to arrive within 2 to 5 business days! The wait will all be worth it once it arrives at your doorstep.
Your BedStory Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress will have a 10-year warranty.
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Certifications
You’ll be safe and sound when sleeping on a BedStory mattress since it’s CetriPUR-US and OEKO-TEX Certified. This ensures that you’re sleeping on a mattress without any harmful chemicals.
Recommended Bedframes
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The Ideal Sleepers
Like many products, the mattress isn’t a one-size-fits-all. Not everyone will enjoy their slumber with this mattress. However, it’s good to know who’ll love sleeping in this bed all day long.
- Light and sensitive sleepers
- Babies
- Elders
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Maintaining The BedStory Mattress
Most beds last seven to ten years. After all, it’s expensive to change mattresses regularly. During your sleep tenure with BedStory, you can care for it to make your mattress last long. Here are tips from BedStory to help you maintain the mattress.
- Don’t eat on the bed
- Use a vacuum to remove dirt or debris
- Spot clean stains using detergent
- Put a mattress protector
- Rotate the mattress to avoid further wear and tear. Rotate it every 3 to 6 months
- Air out the mattress
- Don’t jump on the bed
What Do Sleepers Think?
BedStory sleepers love the mattress firmness. It’s medium-firm, so if you’re looking for something soft, you’re better off buying a mattress topper to make it soft. Plus, some sleepers find it easy to sleep faster. Additionally, you don’t have to worry about aches and pains upon waking up or during the middle of the night.
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Final Thoughts
Choosing the BEST mattress is essential to getting a good night’s sleep. The BedStory Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress could be the next mattress to grace your bedframe. Many sleepers rave over the mattress since they sleep easier, faster, and better. Plus, some experience less or no pain upon waking up, which is a game-changer for many sleepers. Finally, it’s value for money considering the specs. You don’t need to change your mattress regularly. Plus, you can return the mattress if it’s not a good fit!
Nothing makes your trip exciting than visiting the best adventure travel destinations. Adrenaline junkies are always on the lookout for places that offer thrilling experiences, beautiful landscapes and satisfying challenges. If you haven’t decided on the next travel adventure, here are 00 destinations you must look into.
1. New Zealand
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If you’ve been dreaming about hopping on a place and trekking and climbing the mountains of the Himalayas, then book a trip to Nepal. This adventure activity is only for the experienced as Mount Everest isn’t for the faint of hearts. If you’re a novice climber, you can go as high as the Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit. However, the more serious climbers will go as far as the peaks of Mount Everest and Annapurna.
3. Chile
South America boasts some of the best adventure travel destinations, including Chile’s Torres del Pain National Park. You can start ice hiking the Grey Glacier from the Refugio Grey, beginning with a 15-minute zodiac boat ride to glacier’s western arm. Once you walk the glaciers, you can revel in its size and beauty. Enjoy peering into the deep blue crevasses or explore the magnificent ice caves. The more advanced ice hikers can even do a vertical ice climb!
4. Costa Rica
If you’re looking into the next surf and beach travel destination, hop on a plane to Costa Rica. Bring your surfboards to Pura Vida and enjoy the rich culture and simply contagious vibes. The stunning coastlines are laden with surf camps for the novice and experienced surfers. You’ll also enjoy a few restaurants and chic cafes to go about your work day. You can surf Costa Rica all year round on its two coasts and enjoy warm waters and a tropical climate.
5. Australia
Australia offers both mountains and beaches for both the adventure seekers on these terrains. And it’s no surprise why The Great Barrier Reef gets more than 14 million recreational visitors yearly. Travelers enjoy fishing, sailing, boating, swimming, and snorkeling. But those who seek adrenaline rush go scuba diving in The Great Barrier Reef because it’s one of the best scuba diving destinationa in the world. It features an abundance of marine life divers won’t find in any other diving destinations.
6. South Africa
Experience the diverse wildlife in South Africa and indulge in activities like bungee jumping and shark cage diving. Marvel in the grandeur of these creatures and experience their presence up close inside a cage underwater. Visit South Africa’s popular shark cage diving hotspots like Port Elizabeth, Durban, Cape Town, Mossel Bay, and Gansbaai.
Where to next?
Traveling to adventure destinations requires careful planning and consideration to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Research your destination thoroughly, including local customs, weather conditions, and any travel advisories. Plan your itinerary and activities in advance, but also be flexible to accommodate unexpected changes. Assess your physical fitness level, prepare accordingly, and enjoy!
Fashion trends come and go, but a timeless brand emerges that redefines style and excellence. SWET Tailor is established to create clothes for the modern guy. The company’s signature offerings include streamlined looks, comfortable designs, and muted tones with pops of color. Scroll down to explore the best men’s apparel from SWET Tailor that seamlessly merges comfort with elegance and individuality with global appeal.
1. SWET Jogger
Elevate your casual wardrobe with the SWET Jogger, perfect for your recreational lifestyle. SWET Jogger offers distinct quality and comfort. It is made from 100% Suprese™, a 96/4 cotton/spandex blend fabric by SWET Tailor.
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Price: $99
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Fairway Jogger features a “dress pants meets jogger” style. You don’t have to choose between a golf look or street style with this functional pant that looks great on and off the course. Made from an exceptionally lightweight fabric blend, it offers incredible comfort and style. Fairway Jogger has lined front and zipper back pockets with a hidden front zipper pocket.
Price: $119
3. All-In Polo
This classic polo is one of SWET Tailor’s Bestsellers. You can wear this ultra-comfortable top from meetings to dinners. Tuck it in or not, SWET Tailor-made the All-in Polo in the perfect length to be styled either way. It has an adjustable 3-button placket and a self-fabric reinforced collar for extra comfort. Plus, there are 11 colors you can choose from. With this comfort, we bet you’ll purchase more than one!
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Jackets are a men’s fashion staple. Update your collection with The Duo Jacket by SWET Tailor. It may look like a classic denim jacket, but it’s not. This jacket is made from an exceptional fabric blend and combines traditional design and comfort. The Duo Jacket is available in Black, Navy, and Denim Grey.
Price: $149
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From the jackets, let’s move to the trendy and functional hoodies. Stand out from the crowd with this crewneck sweatshirt in SWET Tailor’s 100% Suprese™ material. The hoodie has a custom-engineered 4-way stretch to recoil and rebound. It is lightweight enough to be styled under your favorite jacket.
Price: $99
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This White Duo Joggers is a perfect addition to your closet as you anticipate wearing your whites in spring or summer. Thanks to their modern jogger style, you can wear them anytime, anywhere. It features an elastic waistband and cuff for an easy fit, belt loops for versatility, and an inner waist drawstring for a polished look.
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Price: $99
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The Stretch Fleece Zip Hoodie is a perfect choice if you’re a zip hoodie guy. It’s one of the best fleece hoodies on the market today. The Stretch Fleece Zip Hoodie has two front pockets for comfort and rib contrast trims for a modern look. Elevate your wardrobe essentials today by adding this hoodie to your closet.
Price: $99
9. Softest T-Shirt
This incredibly soft t-shirt guarantees a silky, lightweight feel. The Softest T-shirt is so comfortable you’ll never want to take it off. The rounded hem and short length help achieve a better fit that flatters any size. With 18 unique colors, you’ll start buying now and collect as many colors as you want!
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For an easy, convenient, and life-changing wardrobe upgrade, go for The “Classics” Bundle. With SWET Tailor’s men’s clothing bundles, we tick off the hassle out of your morning routine. Each set is packed with comfortable and versatile pieces designed to match perfectly with others.
The “Classics” Bundle includes:
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Price: $240
About SWET Tailor
SWET Tailor is an American company established to redefine casual wear for a modern lifestyle. They believe that style and comfort must come together. With that goal in mind, SWET Tailor created a comfortable and office-ready collection of athleisure wear. The company offers versatile, stylish options that seamlessly transition from casual to formal.
SWET Tailor vs Lululemon and Other High-End Brands
In the early days of the 20th century, there was only leisure. Then, as decades passed, came athletics. The popularity of sports such as golf, tennis, and jogging paved the way for a new clothing style—eventually, a clothing style known as athleisure was born. However, when athleisure was first introduced, the term was quite literal. It refers to athletic clothing to be worn at leisure.
Fast-forward to 2023, sportswear as fashion clothing is linked with cultures worldwide, paving the way for more brands offering these apparel collections.
SWET Tailor stands out in a competitive landscape alongside high-end brands like Lululemon. They are known for exceptionally high quality, good value clothing. Based on the reviews. Their clothing’s color survived several washes without fading.
While Lululemon and other premium brands have established themselves in the market, SWET Tailor differentiates itself in several key aspects, such as:
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- Craftmanship and detail
- Commitment to versatility that seamlessly adapts to various lifestyles
- Global appeal
While Lululemon and similar brands have their market presence, SWET Tailor’s commitment to quality positions it as a captivating choice for those seeking a distinctive wardrobe.
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Sunny
January 7, 2023 at 10:01 am
Good article! Sad to say, but cult-like brainwashing has been used by the extremely wealthy owners of most older MLM companies and most top-earning MLM distributors for 50++ years. It is not a new practice. Newer companies are using their methods. Most people are unsophisticated in MLM tactics and most have no idea what they are really getting themselves into when joining. New distributors see potential needed income and blindly follow what they learn in the trainings they attend. These unsuspecting people get sucked into an MLM funnel. (May be more like a black hole.) Extremely wealthy MLM company owners and top-earning MLM distributors know exactly how to keep THEIR funnels full (of people) so THEIR huge royalty checks continue. People unsophisticated in MLM tactics will continue to be recruited indefinitely, until the extremely wealthy MLM company owners and the top-earning MLM distributors are held accountable by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) for using cult-like recruiting and training tactics. In my opinion, not much will change in the MLM industry until that happens…