Harvey Mackay, born on May 1, 1933, in Saint Paul, Minnesota, is a celebrated American businessman, author, and motivational speaker. He rose to prominence as the founder and CEO of the Mackay Envelope Corporation and authored best-selling books like “Swim with the Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive,” which topped the New York Times list and sold millions. Mackay’s achievements include multiple literary awards and his role as a syndicated columnist, sharing wisdom on business and personal growth. His quotes, often drawn from books, interviews, and social media, reflect his insights on life, success, and resilience. Sourced from various mediums, these 15 quotes about life showcase his motivational philosophy. Below is a curated list to inspire and reflect upon.
15 Harvey Mackay Quotes
1. “Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.” (Book, “Swim with the Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive,” 1988)
2. “The only difference between stumbling blocks and stepping stones is how you use them.” (Interview, Success Magazine, 2005)
3. “Find something you love to do, and you’ll never work a day in your life.” (Post on X, @HarveyMackay, n.d.)
4. “Attitude is a choice. Happiness is a choice. Optimism is a choice. Kindness is a choice.” (Book, “Dig Your Well Before You’re Thirsty,” 1997)
5. “Life is too short to spend your time thinking about what-ifs.” (Interview, CNN, 2012)
6. “Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success.” (Social Media, Facebook Post, 2018)
7. “The best way to predict your future is to create it.” (Book, “Pushing the Envelope,” 1999)
8. “In life, as in football, you won’t go far unless you know where the goalposts are.” (Interview, Wall Street Journal, 2008)
9. “Don’t wait for extraordinary opportunities. Seize common occasions and make them great.” (Post on X, @HarveyMackay, April 10, 2020)
10. “Life’s battles don’t always go to the stronger or faster man. But sooner or later the man who wins, is the man who thinks he can.” (Book, “Swim with the Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive,” 1988)
11. “The harder you work, the luckier you get.” (Interview, Entrepreneur Magazine, 2015)
12. “Life is a grindstone. Whether it grinds us down or polishes us up depends on us.” (Social Media, LinkedIn Post, 2022)
13. “You can’t build a reputation on what you are going to do.” (Book, “Dig Your Well Before You’re Thirsty,” 1997)
14. “In life, you get what you give. Give your best, and you’ll get the best in return.” (Post on X, @HarveyMackay, June 5, 2021)
15. “Embrace change. It’s the only constant in life.” (Interview, PBS, 2010)
These quotes from Harvey Mackay illuminate his life-affirming philosophy, stressing the importance of attitude, resilience, and proactive choices in navigating challenges. They reveal a man who believes in turning setbacks into opportunities and finding joy in purposeful living, drawing from his own experiences in business and beyond. Mackay’s words encourage us to adopt a positive mindset for a fulfilling life. What insights did you gain? Share your favorite quote or thoughts in the comments below and let’s inspire each other.