Mary Kay Ash was a remarkable entrepreneur and the founder of Mary Kay Cosmetics. She believed in empowering women and helping them succeed in their careers. Her inspirational quotes have motivated many people to aim higher and believe in themselves. Through her words, she has shared valuable lessons about hard work, honesty, and the importance of taking risks.
Today, we will look at some of her most inspiring quotes. Each quote reflects her positive attitude and determination. They remind us that with the right mindset, we can overcome challenges and achieve our dreams. Get ready to be inspired by Mary Kay Ash’s wisdom!
Mary Kay Ash Quotes
“There are two kinds of people: those who give excuses and those who give results.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote highlights the choice we face every day: to make excuses or to take action. When we focus on producing results, we empower ourselves and others to achieve their goals. It encourages us to take responsibility for our lives and our actions. We can decide to be the ones who create positive change and inspire others to do the same.
“You can’t be a success unless you are a success in your personal life.” – Mary Kay Ash
This reminds us that our personal lives play a critical role in our overall success. When we nurture our relationships and prioritize our well-being, we create a solid foundation for our professional achievements. It urges us to seek balance and fulfillment, as true success is about more than just career accomplishments.
“The speed of the leader is the speed of the gang.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote emphasizes the importance of leadership. As leaders, our actions set the tone for those around us. When we model determination and commitment, we inspire our team to elevate their performance. It encourages us to lead by example, knowing our influence can shape the success of others.
“People often say that motivation doesn’t last. Well, neither does bathing. That’s why we recommend it daily.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote reminds us that motivation is something we must cultivate regularly. Just like we need to maintain good hygiene, we also need to nurture our drive and passion for our goals. By seeking inspiration daily, we can stay focused on our ambitions and find the energy we need to chase our dreams.
“There is no such thing as failure. There are only results.” – Mary Kay Ash
This perspective shifts our view of setbacks. Instead of seeing failure, we can interpret every experience as a result that teaches us something valuable. This mindset allows us to grow from our challenges and view them as stepping stones toward eventual success. It reminds us that every outcome is an opportunity to learn.
“You can do anything you want to do, if you want it badly enough.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote empowers us to pursue our dreams. It emphasizes the importance of desire and determination in achieving our goals. When we want something deeply, we can find the motivation and creativity to overcome obstacles. It encourages us not to hold back but to reach for what we truly desire in our lives.
“The greatest gift of all is the gift of giving.” – Mary Kay Ash
This speaks to the joy and fulfillment we find in helping others. When we give, whether it’s our time, talent, or resources, we create a positive impact in the world. It encourages us to embrace a mindset of generosity and reminds us that true happiness often comes from our contributions to others.
“A mediocre idea that generates enthusiasm will go further than a great idea that inspires no one.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote reveals the power of enthusiasm and passion. No matter how brilliant an idea might be, it requires excitement and support to come to life. It encourages us to focus on sparking enthusiasm in ourselves and others. When we believe in our ideas passionately, we inspire those around us to join us in our pursuits.
“We all want to be appreciated; We all want to be validated.” – Mary Kay Ash
This highlights the universal human desire for acknowledgment and validation. Recognizing and appreciating others fosters a sense of belonging and motivation. It encourages us to take time to show gratitude towards those around us, building stronger relationships and boosting morale in our personal and professional lives.
“Your life is a story, and you are the author. You can choose to make it a bestseller.” – Mary Kay Ash
This metaphor about life as a story reminds us of our autonomy. We have the power to shape our experiences and create a narrative that reflects our dreams and aspirations. It encourages us to take charge of our lives, make bold choices, and write our own success stories, making each chapter meaningful.
“You are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean in a drop.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote emphasizes our individuality and significance. Each of us contains vast potential and value, just like the ocean. It encourages us to recognize our worth and the impact we can have on the world. We are called to embrace our uniqueness and use our gifts to contribute positively to those around us.
“If you think you are beaten, you are.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote highlights the importance of mindset. Our thoughts shape our reality, and if we believe we can’t succeed, we limit our potential. It encourages a positive, determined mindset that reinforces our ability to overcome challenges. When we think we can achieve something, we are more likely to find a way to make it happen.
“What I’m really proud of is the fact that I helped people develop a belief in themselves.” – Mary Kay Ash
This focuses on the transformative impact of encouragement. Helping others build confidence in themselves often leads to personal growth and success. It reminds us of our role in empowering those around us, as belief is a catalyst for achieving dreams. By uplifting others, we create a community of support and inspiration.
“If you want to succeed, you have to be willing to fail.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote acknowledges that failure is part of the path to success. It encourages us to embrace risks and view failures as learning experiences. When we remove the fear of failure, we open ourselves up to opportunities for growth and achievement. It reminds us that resilience is a key ingredient in our journey to success.
“The most important thing in communication is hearing what isn’t said.” – Mary Kay Ash
This highlights the importance of active listening and non-verbal cues. Understanding others goes beyond just words. It encourages us to be attentive to body language and emotions, enriching our connections. By being emotionally aware, we can foster deeper relationships and address needs that may not be verbally expressed.
“You can’t change what you don’t acknowledge.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote speaks to the necessity of recognizing our challenges before we can address them. Acknowledgment is the first step toward meaningful change. It encourages us to take an honest look at ourselves and our situations, which empowers us to move forward, make adjustments, and strive for improvement in our lives.
“You have to be willing to be misunderstood if you’re going to innovate.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote emphasizes the risk involved in being innovative. New ideas can often be met with skepticism. It encourages us to remain steadfast in our vision, even when others do not understand our path. Embracing creativity can lead to remarkable achievements that make a difference, reminding us that progress often requires courage.
“Don’t let someone who gave up on their dreams talk you out of yours.” – Mary Kay Ash
This calls for us to surround ourselves with positivity. Others’ fears should not dampen our aspirations. It encourages us to stay focused on our goals and remain persistent, regardless of negativity. By holding onto our dreams, we can create a more fulfilling life and inspire others to do the same.
“One person can make a difference, and everyone should try.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote underlines the power of individual actions. Each of us has the potential to create change in our surroundings. It encourages us to take initiative, no matter how small our efforts may seem. When we all contribute, we collectively make a larger impact on our communities, inspiring others to take action.
“You should never give up your power to someone else.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote speaks to the importance of self-empowerment. We must take ownership of our decisions and not allow others to dictate our paths. It encourages us to stand firm in our choices, knowing that our power lies within us. By doing so, we can create a life aligned with our values and aspirations.
“It is the way you think about it that makes your world.” – Mary Kay Ash
This highlights the importance of mindset. Our thoughts shape our perceptions and experiences. A positive outlook can transform challenges into opportunities and enhance our overall well-being. It encourages us to nurture a constructive mindset, allowing us to face life’s situations with optimism and resilience.
“Sometimes you have to take a leap of faith.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote reminds us that taking risks is a necessary part of life. Growth often requires stepping out of our comfort zones. It encourages us to embrace uncertainty and trust our instincts. By being brave and open to new experiences, we can discover new possibilities that lead to personal and professional growth.
“The only way to get ahead is to give yourself the confidence to do it.” – Mary Kay Ash
This highlights the role of self-confidence in achieving our goals. Believing in ourselves is essential for success. It encourages us to cultivate that confidence through practice and readiness. When we trust our abilities, we empower ourselves to take steps toward achieving our dreams.
“Success isn’t a destination; it’s a journey.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote reminds us that success is an ongoing process, not just an endpoint. Each step we take and all the experiences we gain shape our journey. It encourages us to appreciate the moments along the way and to recognize that growth is a continuous effort that enriches our lives.
“You can’t put a limit on anything. The more you dream, the farther you get.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote celebrates the power of dreaming big. When we allow ourselves to envision endless possibilities, we open doors to new opportunities. It encourages us to foster our dreams without self-imposed limitations, reminding us that our ambitions can lead us to uncharted territories in our lives.
“When you have a dream, you’ve got to grab it and never let go.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote speaks to the determination required to achieve our dreams. We must hold onto our ambitions tightly and actively pursue them. It encourages us to stay committed and persistent, reminding us that perseverance is often the key to turning dreams into reality.
“Success is the ability to use your imagination and create your future.” – Mary Kay Ash
This highlights the role of imagination in shaping our destinies. When we envision our future, we can take actionable steps to turn those visions into reality. It encourages us not to be afraid to dream big and to use our creativity to pave the way for our desired outcomes.
“Anything is possible if you believe in it.” – Mary Kay Ash
This reinforces the power of belief. When we hold faith in our abilities and dreams, we open ourselves up to potential opportunities. It encourages us to maintain a strong belief in what we can accomplish, inspiring ourselves and others to chase after our goals with confidence.
“What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote emphasizes the impact of our choices. Our actions can significantly influence the world around us. It encourages us to reflect on the kind of legacy we want to leave. By being intentional about our choices, we can create the difference we aspire to see.
“Believe in yourself and there will come a day when others will have no choice but to believe with you.” – Mary Kay Ash
This speaks to the necessity of self-belief. When we hold strong convictions about our capabilities, we inspire confidence in others. It encourages us to trust in our abilities first, which can ultimately lead others to recognize our potential and support us on our journey.
“Quality is never an accident; it is always the result of intelligent effort.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote teaches us that excellence requires intentionality and hard work. Nothing of quality comes without dedication and effort. It encourages us to be deliberate in our actions, striving for high standards in everything we do. By putting forth intelligent effort, we can achieve meaningful results.
“As long as you are still in the game, you will never lose.” – Mary Kay Ash
This emphasizes the importance of persistence. As long as we keep trying and remain engaged, we have not truly lost. It encourages us to stay committed to our pursuits regardless of setbacks. Maintaining a spirit of resilience allows us to keep growing and learning throughout our journey.
“I’m convinced that when you take risk, you grow.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote highlights the connection between risk-taking and personal growth. Stepping beyond our comfort zones leads to new experiences and lessons. It encourages us to embrace challenges as valuable opportunities that contribute to our development and transformation over time.
“The successful people are those who can be trusted to do what they say they will do.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote underscores the importance of reliability in achieving success. Trustworthiness plays a crucial role in building relationships and standing out in our endeavors. It encourages us to honor our commitments and maintain integrity, as these qualities earn us respect and facilitate our success.
“I think we ought to be very careful to leave a legacy that will make the world a better place.” – Mary Kay Ash
This emphasizes the notion of legacy. Our actions today can have lasting effects on future generations. It encourages us to consider the impact we want to leave behind and to strive for positive contributions. By being mindful of our legacy, we can inspire future leaders and changemakers.
“You have to get up every morning and tell yourself, ‘I can do this’.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote highlights the power of positive affirmations. Each day brings new challenges and opportunities, and we must remind ourselves of our capabilities. It encourages us to start each day with confidence, setting a proactive tone that helps fuel our motivation and determination.
“To me, success is not all about being the best; it’s about being satisfied with yourself.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote addresses the meaning of true success. It’s not merely about competition but about personal fulfillment. It encourages us to reflect on our values and find satisfaction in who we are and what we accomplish, rather than constantly measuring ourselves against others.
“The only thing that stands between you and your goal is the story you keep telling yourself.” – Mary Kay Ash
This emphasizes the role of self-narrative in shaping our realities. Often, our own limiting beliefs can hold us back from achieving our goals. It encourages us to reframe our internal dialogue positively, breaking down barriers we may have created and allowing ourselves to pursue our ambitions freely.
“You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great.” – Mary Kay Ash
This highlights the importance of taking that first step. We may not feel prepared or excellent in the beginning, but starting is crucial for progress. It encourages us to embrace the journey of learning and improving, knowing that greatness comes through persistence and practice over time.
“Passion is the fuel, action is the vehicle.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote draws a connection between passion and action. Our enthusiasm and love for what we do drive us to take meaningful steps toward our goals. It encourages us to leverage our passion and translate it into actions that move us closer to success, creating a path for us to follow.
“You cannot climb the ladder of success dressed in the costume of failure.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote speaks about the importance of attitude and mindset. To achieve success, we must adopt a mindset that aligns with our goals. It encourages us to shed negativity and embrace a positive outlook, allowing ourselves to rise and thrive in our pursuits.
“A leader’s role is to turn their vision into a reality.” – Mary Kay Ash
This emphasizes the responsibility of leaders to bring dreams to fruition. Vision is essential, but effective leadership involves planning and execution. It encourages us to take our ideas and lead with purpose, transforming aspirations into tangible results that benefit ourselves and others.
“Everything you need is already inside you.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote inspires self-belief and inner strength. We often overlook our potential, but understanding that we have the tools necessary to succeed encourages confidence. It reminds us to trust ourselves and tap into our internal resources as we navigate life and pursue our dreams.
“Make your friends your partners and your partners your friends.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote speaks to the importance of relationships in both personal and professional spheres. Blurring the lines creates a supportive environment where collaboration thrives. It encourages us to cultivate genuine relationships characterized by trust, respect, and mutual benefit, promoting a sense of teamwork and harmony.
“Be bold, be brave, be you.” – Mary Kay Ash
This is a call to authenticity and courage. Embracing our true selves allows us to navigate the world with confidence and passion. It encourages us to step outside of societal norms, live boldly, and pursue our ambitions unapologetically, knowing that true fulfillment comes from being genuine.
“Timing, perseverance, and ten years of trying will eventually make you look like an overnight success.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote captures the essence of hard work and patience. Achievements often come after a long period of effort, and others may only see the result. It encourages us to stay dedicated to our paths, even when progress seems slow. Recognizing the journey helps us appreciate the rewards we eventually reap.
“Opportunities are never lost; someone will take the ones you miss.” – Mary Kay Ash
This emphasizes the importance of seizing opportunities as they arise. Each moment holds potential, and failing to act means someone else might take that chance. It encourages us to remain vigilant and proactive, ready to embrace the possibilities before us and not let them slip away.
“Nothing is harder than the softness of indifference.” – Mary Kay Ash
This highlights the challenges posed by apathy. Indifference can be more detrimental than criticism; it lacks recognition and engagement. It encourages us to remain passionate and attentive to the world around us, fueling our desire to make positive changes rather than remaining apathetic.
“Don’t wait for someone to come along and give you a hand; stand up and take what you want.” – Mary Kay Ash
This underscores the importance of proactive behavior. We must not wait for opportunities to be handed to us, as we have the power to seize our dreams. It encourages us to take initiative in pursuing our goals, reminding us that we are the main architects of our success.
“Softness is not weakness.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote highlights that gentleness and empathy are strengths. Many may view softness as a sign of vulnerability, but this perspective encourages us to value our compassionate side. Embracing our softness can enhance our connections and lead to a more nurturing environment that fosters growth and support.
“Success is a journey, not a destination.” – Mary Kay Ash
This echoes the sentiment that success is not merely an endpoint but an ongoing process. Each experience contributes to our development, and it’s essential to embrace the entirety of the journey. It encourages us to appreciate our progress and recognize the value in striving toward our goals every day.
“It’s not how you start the race, it’s how you finish.” – Mary Kay Ash
This illustrates the significance of perseverance. Our beginnings may not define our outcomes; determination and effort play major roles. It encourages us to focus on our progress and commitment to see things through, regardless of where we started or the challenges we faced along the way.
“Don’t count the days; make the days count.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote emphasizes how we choose to use our time. Instead of simply marking off days, we should strive to create meaningful experiences. It encourages us to be intentional and proactive, valuing each moment as an opportunity to enrich our lives and the lives of those around us.
“If you want to learn about a person, don’t listen to their words; observe their actions.” – Mary Kay Ash
This underscores the importance of actions over words. True character and values are revealed through behavior rather than speech. It encourages us to be mindful of the messages we communicate through our actions and to better understand others by observing how they engage with the world around them.
“The greatest achievement is to be able to think and act for yourself.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote emphasizes the importance of independence and personal agency. Our ability to make our own choices is a foundational aspect of success and fulfillment. It encourages us to embrace our autonomy and cultivate the confidence to follow our instincts and desires, contributing to a more empowered life.
“The most important thing is to enjoy your life – to be happy – it’s all that matters.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote captures the essence of happiness. The ultimate goal is to find joy in our daily lives, regardless of external success. It encourages us to prioritize our happiness and well-being, reminding us that a fulfilled life is rooted in our ability to find joy in the little moments.
“You can’t have a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote highlights the joy found in selfless acts. Helping others, especially when they cannot reciprocate, enhances our sense of fulfillment and purpose. It encourages us to embrace kindness and compassion, making a difference in someone’s life enriches our own in ways we often overlook.
“Goal setting is the first step in turning the invisible into the visible.” – Mary Kay Ash
This emphasizes the importance of setting goals. Establishing clear objectives is essential for transforming our dreams into reality. It encourages us to outline our aspirations, making them tangible and creating a roadmap towards achieving them. Goal setting empowers us to stay focused and organized in our pursuits.
“Make it a priority to treat people with respect.” – Mary Kay Ash
This underscores the importance of respect in our interactions. Treating others with dignity fosters strong relationships and builds trust. It encourages us to approach each interaction with empathy and kindness, as this enhances not only our connections but the overall atmosphere in our communities.
“You have to make the time to work on the important things.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote emphasizes the necessity of prioritization. We must be deliberate in allocating time to the things that truly matter in our lives. It encourages us to evaluate our commitments and set time aside for growth, relationships, and personal development, ensuring we focus on what enriches our existence.
“People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” – Mary Kay Ash
This illustrates the vital role of empathy in leadership and relationships. Genuine care fosters connection and trust, making others more receptive to our knowledge and advice. It encourages us to approach our interactions with compassion, building rapport that paves the way for effective communication and collaboration.
“The more you give away, the more you get back.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote highlights the rewarding nature of generosity. When we offer our time, love, and support, we often receive even more in return, enriching our own lives. It encourages us to adopt a mindset of abundance, giving freely without expectations, and witnessing how this creates a positive cycle of reciprocity.
“It’s not the hours you put in, but what you put into the hours that counts.” – Mary Kay Ash
This emphasizes the quality of our efforts over quantity. Simply working harder does not guarantee success; it’s important to maximize our effectiveness during our work hours. It encourages us to be mindful of how we use our time, focusing on purposeful actions that yield positive results.
“To succeed, we must first believe that we can.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote underscores the foundational role of self-belief. Our mindset is crucial in achieving our goals. It encourages us to cultivate confidence in our abilities, laying the groundwork for our success. When we believe we can achieve something, we unlock untapped potential that propels us forward.
“Set your goals high, and don’t stop until you get there.” – Mary Kay Ash
This encourages us to aim for ambitious goals. By setting high standards, we push ourselves to grow and realize our potential. It urges us to remain persistent in pursuing our dreams, instilling determination to not settle for anything less than what we aspire to achieve.
“Nothing will happen until the pain of staying the same outweighs the pain of change.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote reveals the reluctance to change until the desire for improvement becomes stronger than the fear of the unknown. It encourages us to reflect on our situations, recognizing when change becomes necessary. When we reach this point, we find the motivation to take bold steps toward our dreams.
“True success can only be measured by how many people you have helped along the way.” – Mary Kay Ash
This highlights the importance of service in defining our success. Our impact on others is a significant indicator of our achievements. It encourages us to focus on uplifting those around us, as genuine success is rooted in our ability to contribute positively to the lives of others, creating a legacy of kindness.
“Your future is created by what you do today, not tomorrow.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote reminds us of the importance of taking action in the present. Our decisions today shape the outcomes of our lives in the future. It encourages us to be proactive, emphasizing the need to make choices that align with our goals, as waiting for tomorrow only delays our progress.
“Success is not just about what you accomplish in your life; it’s about what you inspire others to do.” – Mary Kay Ash
This quote reflects the idea that our achievements are not solely for ourselves but also for the influence we have on others. When we motivate those around us, we create a ripple effect of inspiration. It encourages us to lead with purpose and empower others to pursue their own ambitions.
“Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude.” – Mary Kay Ash
This emphasizes the significance of a positive attitude in defining our success. While skills matter, our mindset ultimately influences how high we can soar. It encourages us to cultivate a constructive outlook, as optimism and determination pave the way for growth and achievement.
Final Thoughts
Mary Kay Ash’s quotes speak volumes about empowerment, leadership, and determination. Each quote teaches us valuable lessons about believing in ourselves, the importance of hard work, and the significance of kindness. These insights remind us that success is not just about individual achievements but also about how we impact others. Embracing a positive mindset and taking action are crucial for pursuing our dreams and making a meaningful difference.
As we reflect on the wisdom shared by Mary Kay Ash, we can adopt these values in our lives. By nurturing our self-belief, supporting each other, and aiming high, we can create a fulfilling experience in our personal and professional journeys. Let us strive to be the best versions of ourselves, inspiring others along the way.
For more uplifting thoughts, check out articles full of gratitude quotes for life or dive into insights on a grateful heart.