Sticking to the Basics

In January of 1992, while attending Southern Utah University, Daren’s interest was piqued. While attending class, Daren happened to sit by a girl reading a book in a foreign language. Impressed, Daren tried to catch her attention by offering her a stick of Big Red gum. Surprisingly enough, she wasn’t offended. Instead, this was the start of a whirlwind romance. After 20 years of marriage, Daren and Crystelle still laugh about how a stick of gum and a German book brought them together.

Risk and opportunity are nothing new to the Gates family. After graduation, Daren worked as a stock broker and in real estate and land development. During this time, Daren was approached several times by individuals seeking to share the doTERRA opportunity. However, each time he responded negatively, until the economic downturn forced him to look elsewhere.

While trying to determine his new path, Daren took a job in vending machine sales. Although his position gave him financial stability, it wasn’t very rewarding. Daren said, “It was during this time, when my career was off track, that I became more open to other opportunities. “ While traveling to Zion’s National Park, Daren was once again approached with the doTERRA opportunity. This time, he agreed to attend a doTERRA event.

During this event, Daren was introduced to Patrick and Allyse Sedivy and David and Tammy Miller. Despite Daren’s passive interest, they continued to be persistent. When Daren finally decided to join, he felt like he had missed out on a great opportunity by not doing so earlier. However, Crystelle wouldn’t allow him to concentrate on the what-ifs. She said, “Daren stop moaning and complaining because you didn’t get in when you should have. It’s still a great opportunity, so go in excited and don’t blow it again.’”