James Cash Penney Famous Quotations

James Cash Penney (1875 - 1971) was a businessman and entrepreneur. In 1902, he founded the J.C. Penney stores. These famous quotes dealing with goals, achievement, and success have been attributed to him.

As a rule, we find what we look for; we achieve what we get ready for.
Change is vital, improvement the logical form of change.

Determine to do some thinking for yourself. Don't live entirely upon the thoughts of others. Don't be an automaton.
Every man must decide for himself whether he shall master his world or be mastered by it.
Exchange ideas frequently.
Growth is never by mere chance; it is the result of forces working together.
Honor bespeaks worth. Confidence begets trust. Service brings satisfaction. Cooperation proves the quality of leadership.
I believe in trusting men, not only once but twice - in giving a failure another chance.
I do not believe in excuses. I believe in hard work as the prime solvent of life's problems.
It is always the start that requires the greatest effort.
Men are not great or small because of their material possessions. They are great or small because of what they are.
No matter what his position or experience in life, there is in everyone more latent than developed ability; far more unused than used power.
No serious-minded man should have time for the mediocre in any phase of his living.
Responsibilities are given to him on whom trust rests. Responsibility is always a sign of trust.
Salesmanship is limitless. Our very living is selling. We are all salespeople.
Success cannot come from standstill men. Methods change and men must change with them.
Success will always be measured by the extent to which we serve the buying public.
The art of effective listening is essential to clear communication, and clear communication is necessary to management success.
The best teamwork comes from men who are working independently toward one goal in unison.
The keystone of successful business is cooperation. Friction retards progress.
The men who have furnished me with my greatest inspiration have not been men of wealth, but men of deeds.
The well-satisfied customer will bring the repeat sale that counts.
Theory is splendid but until put into practice, it is valueless.
We get real results only in proportion to the real values we give.

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