Can you make a million working from home?

With our economy in a crisis, most Canadians are trying to find innovative ways to keep their financial futures stable. One trend that's making a big comeback? Home-based businesses.

Taking control of your own success is the most reliable route to job security these days and no one is more aware of this than Lethbridge, Alberta-based mother and daughter entrepreneurs, Marilyn and Sarah Stewart. The pair – who are the only Canadians profiled in Maureen G. Mulvaney's new book Women's Millionaire Club (Gratitude Publishing) – have created an über-successful home-based distribution business. They work in partnership with ForeverGreen, a network marketing organization that touts the sale of health and wellness products from organic skin care to natural supplements.

In an interview with CanadianLiving.com contributor Lara Ceroni, they share the secrets of how they built their lucrative empire, one dollar at a time.

Lara Ceroni: Marilyn, you left a marriage of 25 years and had to support three daughters on your own. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced being single again, both personally and financially?

Marilyn Stewart: I had so many fears early on, from feelings of loneliness, to poverty to the judgment from my family and community. The financial challenges were huge! I was personally earning enough to pay the bills, but nothing was secure. My two oldest daughters were both in post-secondary education and Sarah (with whom I work with now) had big dreams of going to design school in California. My financial situation seemed impossible, but I have always believed in the power of intention: if you are willing to do whatever it takes to make things happen then eventually they will.

Lara Ceroni: How did the idea of becoming home-based entrepreneurs come about?

Marilyn: It wasn't until my divorce that I decided to jump into network marketing as a business venture. I realized the income opportunities were limitless and working from home fit into my lifestyle perfectly. This system allows you to earn on the efforts of others. Through volume of product sales, we are paid through the mother company ForeverGreen. There is no ceiling on the income that can be achieved. Anyone can join and begin building their business.

Sarah: When my mom started with ForeverGreen, I supported her decision and before I knew it, I had also fallen in love with the company's philosophy and business perspective. Compared to traditional business, this venture allowed me the freedom to make choices that fit my lifestyle. I have full control of my financial future.

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