Several years ago I purchased a copy of the Mary Kay Ash book “Miracles Happen” at a yard sale in Maryland for just twenty five cents. Although I am a guy, and am no way involved in Mary Kay, I do enjoy studying successful entrepreneurs. So I bought the book and added it to my “must read” list.
After a couple months, I finally started reading the book. I read it in just two days. In fact, this book was hard to put down. I really enjoyed how Mary Kay shared her story from her humble beginnings.
What I enjoyed most about the book was her stories. She told stories of her troubled marriage, her business struggles, her direct sales experience and so much more! For some reason I felt like I could relate to some of her stories.
Best of all, her stories were easy to read and very entertaining. She is such a “personable woman” even though she was a billionaire. Looking at my copy of “Miracles Happen” I probably have at least 200 different sentences underlined. In the near future, I’m going to transcribe all the valuable lessons into my file system.
Mary Kay Ash Quotes from Miracles Happen
Some of my favorite quotes from her book include:
# 1 “The world is full of people who are very quick to dream and very slow to act” (page 99).
If I had to put this in my own words, I would say that the world is full of dreamers, but not very many doers. Anyone can dream something, but the odds of it becoming a reality without a solid game plan and consistent work are very slim! To succeed you must be a person of action.
# 2 “No amount of success is worth sacrificing the relationship you have with your family” (page 76).
In life, family is the most important thing. What good is it to get to the end of your life with financial and business success, but not have anyone to share it with? It’s fine to work hard and work toward your goals. Just make sure you don’t neglect your family in the process. Try to keep your life in balance.
# 3 “The speed of the leader is the speed of the gang” (page 51).
In network marketing, or any other organization, the team is a reflection of their leader. A good leader can transform a bunch of misfits into superstars and a bad leader can transform a bunch of superstars into misfits! Lead by example at all times.
# 4 “I believe that public recognition is the finest form of praise” (page 157).
Recognition and appreciation are two of the greatest human needs. People will move mountains to feel appreciated. One of the best things you can do as a leader is praise your people in public, in front of their family and peers. Money will help motivate people, but recognition is even more powerful.
Key Learning Point from the Book
My biggest takeaway from her book was her advice about making a list of the six most important things you have to do each day, and focusing on getting those things done. This one tip has increased my productivity and helped me be more efficient and effective.
About Mary Kay Ash
When it comes to entrepreneurs, Mary Kay Ash is a legend. I have a great amount of respect for her. She started her own company in 1963 with just $5,000. She grew that company into a multi-billion dollar company! I would consider her one of the greatest entrepreneurs of all time.
She received countless awards during her life time such as the Horatio Alger Distinguished American Citizen Award, Most Outstanding Woman Woman in Business of the 20th Century, and the Pathfinder Award. She’s also a member of the National Business Hall of Fame. Sadly, Mary Kay Ash passed away in 2001; however, her legacy continues!
About the Book
The book was first published by Harper Collins in 1981. There are more than two million copies in print. The book is currently in its third edition and is currently published by William Morrow Publishing. It has 193 pages and comes in softcover format. The ISBN is 978-0060574611. As of April 2015, it has 11 reviews on Amazon with an average 4.7 star rating.
Suggested Reading
Final Thoughts
In summary, Miracles Happen by Mary Kay Ash is a great book for any network marketer, direct seller, or aspiring entrepreneur. Overall, I give the book a 8 of 10 and highly recommend it. If you haven’t read it yet, do yourself a favor and order a copy today! You’ll be glad that you did.
What do you think? If you’ve read “Miracles Happen” before please share your thoughts on what you liked and disliked about the book. Just leave a comment below to do so. I look forward to hearing from you.
Chuck Holmes
20+ Year Network Marketing Professional
Top Earner & Top Recruiter
Email: mrchuckholmes@gmail.com
P.S. Learn how to grow a successful network marketing business. Secret tips, training, and practical ideas. Free training delivered by email.
I absolutely need to put this on my “to read” list. Mary Kay has so much wisdom to offer. I have heard naysayers in regards to the business model, but this will be true of any venture. Her words are timeless, relevant just as much now as when she became successful!
Yes, Mary Kay was one of the most influential entrepreneurs of all time.
How true is that very first quote? Who don’t you know that has a big dream? But how many of those people have actually started taking action in order to make that dream a reality? Very few I’m sure. And it’s often times that those people who haven’t acted on their own dream that will try to discourage you from pursuing yours. But if you have a vision and you’ve taken the time to plan out how you’ll bring it to fruition you should definitely act. You’ll never know if you can succeed if you don’t try.
Very few people will ever take action and work towards their dreams. It’s just a reality.
Not only does this book sound great in general, but it is good to see a woman author in a male dominated industry. I appreciate your representation of everyone! I gained a lot of respect from you from this post, and I’m sure others have, too.
I think you would be surprised how many women there are in the industry. Approximately 85% of the direct sales and MLM Industry is women.
Wow, I didn’t realize the percentage is that high, but I do know that there are many women in network marketing. When you really consider it, there are many network marketing companies geared towards women. They may be items like makeup such as Mary Kay handles, jewelry and other female related products. Add to the fact that many stay at home Moms hook into network marketing. Yes, women do maintain the majority.
Women really dominate our industry. They typically do very well in this profession.
It does sound like a great book. I believe there is often a tendency for us males not to purchase books like these because, like you said, I will never sell Mary Kay products, and we tend to think it is just about that. Now that I know that Chuck (the Man) read Mary Kay’s book, I will have to follow along and get a copy too. With it only being 1 cent on Amazon, I believe I can splurge for that. Thanks for the review sir.
I’ll read a book written by anyone successful. I could care less about their gender, race, religion, etc. We can all learn something from everyone. It just makes sense to study successful people.