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Take a Chance!: 101 Entrepreneurial Lessons for Making It Big
You’re An Entrepreneur. You’ve either started or are thinking of starting your own business. Or you’re all in and need to take a chance. Then this book is for you.
Starting a business is brutal. 70% of businesses fail after five years and only 25% of businesses make it to 15 years or more. What if you had a crystal ball to guide you through your business cycle so you didn’t make the same mistakes as everyone else?
Larry Gaynor is a serial beauty entrepreneur still running TNG Worldwide since 1985. He has dealt with the biggest companies including L’Oréal, Unilever, Amazon and Walmart. As a retailer, he had to take a chance and decide to shut down his $5 million store and become a wholesale distributor. As a distributor, he was cut-off more than ten times and threatened to sell his company or else. As a manufacturer, he had to take a chance and risk everything during the pandemic.
Take A Chance! is Gaynor’s fascinating journey as an entrepreneur spanning more than 50 years. Key take-aways include Gallup-training that changed TNG’s culture; the pivot to manufacturing from being a lowly distributor; the importance of being an Amazon Top 200 Reseller; and the rise and fall of the pro beauty business. Along the way, Gaynor shares his top 101 entrepreneurial lessons for making it big.
Starting a business is brutal. 70% of businesses fail after five years and only 25% of businesses make it to 15 years or more. What if you had a crystal ball to guide you through your business cycle so you didn’t make the same mistakes as everyone else?
Larry Gaynor is a serial beauty entrepreneur still running TNG Worldwide since 1985. He has dealt with the biggest companies including L’Oréal, Unilever, Amazon and Walmart. As a retailer, he had to take a chance and decide to shut down his $5 million store and become a wholesale distributor. As a distributor, he was cut-off more than ten times and threatened to sell his company or else. As a manufacturer, he had to take a chance and risk everything during the pandemic.
Take A Chance! is Gaynor’s fascinating journey as an entrepreneur spanning more than 50 years. Key take-aways include Gallup-training that changed TNG’s culture; the pivot to manufacturing from being a lowly distributor; the importance of being an Amazon Top 200 Reseller; and the rise and fall of the pro beauty business. Along the way, Gaynor shares his top 101 entrepreneurial lessons for making it big.
- GenresBusiness
416 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 9, 2024
23 people are currently reading
1611 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
April 9, 2024
I really enjoyed this book! I am not an entrepreneur (too scared and cheap) but I learned many lessons from Larry that I can easily apply to my life. I admit I would never have read this if I hadn’t won it in the Goodreads giveaway, but I would have missed a great book. It just goes to show that stepping outside your comfort zone can challenge you to think in new ways.
May 20, 2024
I cannot recommend "Take a Chance!" by Larry Gaynor highly enough. This book is a treasure trove of wisdom and inspiration, infused with Larry's infectious personality and captivating storytelling. From the moment you start reading, you'll be drawn in by his likable and fun-loving nature, feeling as if you're having a conversation with an old friend who happens to have extraordinary business acumen.
Larry's passion for CliftonStrengths™️ shines through as he candidly shares his unique strengths and blind spots, illustrating how these traits have influenced his remarkable career. His openness and honesty provide invaluable insights for anyone looking to understand their own strengths and leverage them for success. The way he highlights the strengths of his team members, including his wife Teresa, is heartwarming and underscores the importance of collaboration and recognizing the unique contributions of those around us.
Although I'm not in the Health and Beauty Aids industry, and some of the terminology required a bit of research, the core lessons and overarching themes are universally applicable. Larry's ability to weave his experiences into relatable and actionable advice makes this book a must-read for entrepreneurs across all fields.
By the end, I found myself wishing the book wouldn't end, eager to continue learning from Larry's experiences. "Take a Chance!" is not just a book; it's a mentor in print. I’m so moved by its impact that I'm already planning to share it with two fellow entrepreneurs over coffee this week. Don't miss out on this gem—it's an essential addition to any entrepreneur's library. ~ AAK (WOO, Positivity, Input, Individualization, Activator)
Larry's passion for CliftonStrengths™️ shines through as he candidly shares his unique strengths and blind spots, illustrating how these traits have influenced his remarkable career. His openness and honesty provide invaluable insights for anyone looking to understand their own strengths and leverage them for success. The way he highlights the strengths of his team members, including his wife Teresa, is heartwarming and underscores the importance of collaboration and recognizing the unique contributions of those around us.
Although I'm not in the Health and Beauty Aids industry, and some of the terminology required a bit of research, the core lessons and overarching themes are universally applicable. Larry's ability to weave his experiences into relatable and actionable advice makes this book a must-read for entrepreneurs across all fields.
By the end, I found myself wishing the book wouldn't end, eager to continue learning from Larry's experiences. "Take a Chance!" is not just a book; it's a mentor in print. I’m so moved by its impact that I'm already planning to share it with two fellow entrepreneurs over coffee this week. Don't miss out on this gem—it's an essential addition to any entrepreneur's library. ~ AAK (WOO, Positivity, Input, Individualization, Activator)
May 11, 2024
In this captivating memoir, author Larry Gaynor invites readers on an exhilarating ride through more than five decades of entrepreneurial endeavours. This gripping narrative not only chronicles the author's personal journey but also unveils invaluable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs seeking success in the ever-evolving business landscape.
One of the most compelling and inspiring aspects of the book is the author's pivot from being a distributor to establishing a formidable presence in manufacturing. This is not easy and readers can learn a lot from the author’s personal stories.
Throughout the book, the writer shares his experiences as entrepreneurial lessons, offering advice and strategies for people who are just starting their business, like me, and for those that are already experienced entrepreneurs. This book is sure to leave a lasting impression and ignite your entrepreneurial spirit.
One of the most compelling and inspiring aspects of the book is the author's pivot from being a distributor to establishing a formidable presence in manufacturing. This is not easy and readers can learn a lot from the author’s personal stories.
Throughout the book, the writer shares his experiences as entrepreneurial lessons, offering advice and strategies for people who are just starting their business, like me, and for those that are already experienced entrepreneurs. This book is sure to leave a lasting impression and ignite your entrepreneurial spirit.
April 29, 2024
"Take a Chance!: 101 Entrepreneurial Lessons for Making It Big" by Larry Gaynor is a compelling and insightful guide that distills the essence of entrepreneurship into bite-sized lessons. Gaynor's years of experience in the business world shine through as he offers practical advice, real-world examples, and a no-nonsense approach to taking risks and making them pay off. Each lesson is crafted with clarity and wit, providing readers with an inspiring roadmap to success. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting, this book is a valuable resource that will ignite your entrepreneurial spirit and equip you with the tools to turn your dreams into reality. It's a must-read for anyone looking to make a mark in the business world.
May 10, 2024
Although the lessons in this book are intended for you to be a great entrepreneur, they are also valuable life lessons. You know, the lessons also work in personal relationships as you invest not just money but time and affection; being a minority shareholder in a relationship means you are not all in, so never settle for that. Lesson 59 is a keeper as it helps you to recognize failure. It does not mean you should quit; you should see it as an opportunity to reboot your process and find a way to make it work, at least until you get to the next phase of your journey. The lessons are short but informative. One thing I would need the author to do is to check on the pictures. I got the Kindle version, so they are a bit pixelated, readable, and recognizable. Still, you want it to be crisp photos or illustrations to make the book more presentable as it adds more value to it.
May 11, 2024
A teaching book
“Take a chance” is a motivational guide that encourages people to learn about business and try, if they want, to build their own one. Larry Gaynor has written this practical book, sharing all his experiences in important companies such as L’Oreal, Amazon, Unilever and Amazon. These jobs lead him to adapt, re-invent and move forward all the time. That’s why he came up with this book, to teach what he knows: strategies, organisation, potential clients, and ways of coping with crises.
It’s an engaging read with examples that make difficult topics simpler. I believe that it's a useful tool for anyone who wants to be immersed in business and understand its basics. I thoroughly recommend it.
“Take a chance” is a motivational guide that encourages people to learn about business and try, if they want, to build their own one. Larry Gaynor has written this practical book, sharing all his experiences in important companies such as L’Oreal, Amazon, Unilever and Amazon. These jobs lead him to adapt, re-invent and move forward all the time. That’s why he came up with this book, to teach what he knows: strategies, organisation, potential clients, and ways of coping with crises.
It’s an engaging read with examples that make difficult topics simpler. I believe that it's a useful tool for anyone who wants to be immersed in business and understand its basics. I thoroughly recommend it.
May 11, 2024
sublime
This is the kind of book that will teach you so much about life. Although it is also fun to read you will inevitably learn a lot at the same time. By narrating his own journey the author manages to actually provide the reader with really meaningful and crucial insights for building better businesses. And it follows exactly my mindset: you learn the best from the mistakes and successes of others. So I can say that this is definitely a must read for anyone wanting to be an entrepreneur or anyone who is already an entrepreneur. Its writing style is sublime and very easy to follow. I really appreciated the work that the author put into this.
This is the kind of book that will teach you so much about life. Although it is also fun to read you will inevitably learn a lot at the same time. By narrating his own journey the author manages to actually provide the reader with really meaningful and crucial insights for building better businesses. And it follows exactly my mindset: you learn the best from the mistakes and successes of others. So I can say that this is definitely a must read for anyone wanting to be an entrepreneur or anyone who is already an entrepreneur. Its writing style is sublime and very easy to follow. I really appreciated the work that the author put into this.
May 10, 2024
Helpful book!
''Take a Chance!'' is the book that you need to read if you are looking for motivation in your business. Risk is a word that everyone fears and more when you are starting a new business or already have one. But this book will show you how to do it without stop trying. The author's experiences show us 101 ways to take risks and make better decisions in our business. We know that it is something that is not easy but this book has a good strategy to do it. This book has useful information that is clear and easy to apply and I am sure it will make the decision easier.
''Take a Chance!'' is the book that you need to read if you are looking for motivation in your business. Risk is a word that everyone fears and more when you are starting a new business or already have one. But this book will show you how to do it without stop trying. The author's experiences show us 101 ways to take risks and make better decisions in our business. We know that it is something that is not easy but this book has a good strategy to do it. This book has useful information that is clear and easy to apply and I am sure it will make the decision easier.
June 1, 2024
Compelling read
It is a compelling read that dives deep into the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship. The author's honesty and extensive experience provide invaluable insights and inspiration.
I think that what I liked the most is the author's candid reflections on failures and successes. If you're serious about entrepreneurship, this book will resonate deeply and push you to think and act differently.
It is a compelling read that dives deep into the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship. The author's honesty and extensive experience provide invaluable insights and inspiration.
I think that what I liked the most is the author's candid reflections on failures and successes. If you're serious about entrepreneurship, this book will resonate deeply and push you to think and act differently.
April 7, 2024
what are you waiting for?
Larry took me for a ride! I have managed to glean so many insights from this book. For that alone, I am so grateful. I feel that I have gained more entrepreneurial knowledge over these pages than I could have in a dozen more books. Moreover, I found motivation. Behind all of Larry’s strategic successes were also the intangibles. Contributing to the community and really changing people’s lives are attributes I aspire toward. Larry clearly communicates so many of the traps that new, and seasoned, entrepreneurs can avoid with his guidance. After offering his sage advice; Larry submits a call to action, “Let’s fucking go!”
Larry took me for a ride! I have managed to glean so many insights from this book. For that alone, I am so grateful. I feel that I have gained more entrepreneurial knowledge over these pages than I could have in a dozen more books. Moreover, I found motivation. Behind all of Larry’s strategic successes were also the intangibles. Contributing to the community and really changing people’s lives are attributes I aspire toward. Larry clearly communicates so many of the traps that new, and seasoned, entrepreneurs can avoid with his guidance. After offering his sage advice; Larry submits a call to action, “Let’s fucking go!”
May 9, 2024
It is a work that definitely captivated me. The author invites you to venture on a journey of self-discovery and self-improvement. This book came at the best time of my life. Gaynor manages to expose his book through realism and emotion. Additionally, he developed an inspiring story about the power of taking risks and pursuing dreams. Throughout the book, diverse characters are illustrated, each struggling with their own fears and doubts, as they seek the courage to face life's challenges. Personally, I identified with several characters. Through unexpected twists and turns and poignant moments, the book offers a profound reflection on the importance of resilience and determination.
The author managed to immerse me in a world full of hope and possibilities, where each page offers a new opportunity to grow and thrive. I think it is a read that will leave a lasting impression on everyone's heart and that is why I recommend it.
The author managed to immerse me in a world full of hope and possibilities, where each page offers a new opportunity to grow and thrive. I think it is a read that will leave a lasting impression on everyone's heart and that is why I recommend it.
May 4, 2024
Being an entrepreneur sounds exciting, and for those who take the plunge, it usually is. However, excitement can easily equate to heartbreak if the company you envisioned goes under. This is what happens to many businesses within the first year of their existence, and you don’t want that to happen to you. With this book as your guide, your chances of avoiding this outcome are much higher.
There are many lessons you can take from this story, a multi-decade plunge into business ownership and innovation. The author has done business with some of the world’s biggest and most successful companies, and he knows all about the pitfalls you must avoid. If you have just started a business or you plan to do that soon, this book should be by your side. You can use it as a reference as you encounter the various ups and downs that are inherent to founding your own company.
There are many lessons you can take from this story, a multi-decade plunge into business ownership and innovation. The author has done business with some of the world’s biggest and most successful companies, and he knows all about the pitfalls you must avoid. If you have just started a business or you plan to do that soon, this book should be by your side. You can use it as a reference as you encounter the various ups and downs that are inherent to founding your own company.
May 10, 2024
Through this valuable read, the author shares invaluable information on how to navigate the ups and downs of the business world. “Take a Chance!” delves into crucial topics and addresses the relevance of adapting in difficult times, including economic crises like the pandemic. As someone who has run a business for three years, I deeply relate to the experiences shared in this book. Running a business isn't easy, but having readings like this, which offer valuable insights and unique perspectives, can make a big difference.
I consider this to be a practical reading full of advice that, if you know how to apply, I have no doubt you will be able to capitalize on the opportunities that come your way. Don't let time go by and give this book a chance.
I consider this to be a practical reading full of advice that, if you know how to apply, I have no doubt you will be able to capitalize on the opportunities that come your way. Don't let time go by and give this book a chance.
May 14, 2024
"Take a Chance! by Larry Gaynor is an essential read for anyone seeking into the world of entrepreneurs. The author exposes his 50-year ride in the business world in 101 reachable tips that offer a roadmap to business success. His writing manner is captivating; he expresses his ideas in a straightforward and attractive way. I see he has the wonderful skill of turning difficult concepts reachable. A point to highlight is the fact that Larry is continuously attuned with time, applying new ideas to interest customers. He has a marvellous way of re-inventing himself and his business as well. Moreover, he knows how to pass that information on, and that is why this book is so good. I have learnt a lot from Gaynor’s work. 100% recommendable.
May 9, 2024
This is a very interesting read about the life and journey of entrepreneur, Larry Gaynor, who has been working in the beauty business for a while now. Going from working in his father's hardware store to his big moment as the CEO of a company, the stories he shares are entertaining, compelling, and educational. Gaynor shares his personal knowledge which is perfect for new entrepreneurs that want to excel in life and their own business. The book overall is simple to follow, with easy steps and stories that relate to real-life and it really sucks you into the narrative aspect too! This book can be a great help if you are starting a new chapter! Solid.
May 12, 2024
It is no mystery that being an entrepreneur is a very challenging experience, so for me being informed and educated on it is crucial to keep the brain from spiraling. This book helps with that, not only because of the information it provides but also due to sharing real life experiences.
The book gives advice on how to handle big corporations, specially to never stop negotiating with your vendors, and how important flexibility and resilience is. It feels like someone cheering from behind and one that you could rely on when needing extra help.
Overall, a great book to help those make the decision to go for it.
The book gives advice on how to handle big corporations, specially to never stop negotiating with your vendors, and how important flexibility and resilience is. It feels like someone cheering from behind and one that you could rely on when needing extra help.
Overall, a great book to help those make the decision to go for it.
May 31, 2024
Engagingly written, Gaynor's book uses his personal experience to illustrate the challenges, opportunities, perils, and thrills of entrepreneurship. The book is helpfully organized into narratives within the larger story that each offers a piece of advice or an insight, thus avoiding the temptation to navel gaze and neglect of the book's purported purpose. Gaynor also discusses the impact on personal relationships (familial, marital, etc.) of starting a business *and* of having an "entrepreneurial character," so to speak. This is not another "You can do it!" book, but an informative, readable compendium of hard-won information.
I received this book in a give-away.
I received this book in a give-away.
May 9, 2024
This is a goldmine for budding entrepreneurs and experienced business owners alike. I was struck by the frankness and practical wisdom in the author’s recount of his experiences spanning over five decades. I liked that the book doesn’t just romanticize entrepreneurship but lays bare the tough decisions and harsh realities that come with it. His stories about transforming challenges into stepping stones, especially during the pandemic, are particularly inspiring. I recommend reading Take a Chance.
June 24, 2024
Take a Chance is a very insightful book. Hearing the author's journey confirmed that the road to success as an entrepreneur is filled with winding turns. It is good to hear of an entrepreneur who values his employees and has a heart to give back. Hearing how Larry and his company have evolved over the years was also eye-opening. As an entrepreneur, you must be able to reinvent your business as times change. I reached out to Larry personally. He responded back within 48 hours, just like he says in the book.
April 14, 2024
Curious book with 101 advice from an entrepreneur based on stories and conclusions. The structure is nice and split by logically following recommendations based on different life stages. You can see advice on sakes, knowing product, being strong, follow your curiosity, being brave, never stop learning and much more. This book can be your personal coach who inspires and motivated to be you, drive your life and become a professional you want to be with entrepreneurial mindset
July 14, 2024
I read 46% of this (free) book and gave up. Some of the advice is good, but you have to weed through a fair amount of crap and meandering to get there. I think a better editor could have improved the book by tightening it up, reducing the obnoxious tone, and fixing some of the more annoying, recurring errors. (for example, complementary /= complimentary)
September 1, 2024
I got this as a giveaway ebook winner. I thought the tips were good but the book itself I couldn’t get through. It was just too boring for me. Maybe it is not my thing though. It sounded good so I thought I would enjoy, and also maybe if it were in print it would have been better I think this might be the type of thing I need to highlight and annotate etc. But in any case it didn’t work for me.
Want to read
April 30, 2024 March 16, 2024
May 16, 2024
entrepreneurial skill
101 entrepreneurial is that book that will open eye on the entrepreneurial lesson that will make your business to break even with minimal effort.
101 entrepreneurial is that book that will open eye on the entrepreneurial lesson that will make your business to break even with minimal effort.
May 28, 2024
VALUABLE TOOL FOR A START-UP ENTREPRENEUR.
July 4, 2024
This review is from a giveaway- thank you for including me as a giveaway winner! "Take a Chance!: 101 Entrepreneurial Lessons for Making It Big" by Larry Gaynor is a treasure trove of wisdom and inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. Gaynor's book is a captivating blend of personal anecdotes, practical advice, and insightful lessons drawn from his own remarkable journey to success.
What sets this book apart is its actionable nature. Each of the 101 lessons is concise yet impactful, offering readers tangible strategies for navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. Gaynor's writing is engaging and relatable, making complex concepts accessible to readers of all backgrounds.
Gaynor's authenticity shines through in every chapter, as he shares both his triumphs and failures with honesty and humility. His passion for entrepreneurship is contagious, motivating readers to pursue their dreams with confidence and determination.
Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out on your journey, "Take a Chance!" is a must-read. Larry Gaynor has crafted a practical guide that empowers readers to overcome obstacles, seize opportunities, and ultimately make it big in the world of business. This book is a game-changer for anyone with the courage to take a chance on their dreams.
What sets this book apart is its actionable nature. Each of the 101 lessons is concise yet impactful, offering readers tangible strategies for navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. Gaynor's writing is engaging and relatable, making complex concepts accessible to readers of all backgrounds.
Gaynor's authenticity shines through in every chapter, as he shares both his triumphs and failures with honesty and humility. His passion for entrepreneurship is contagious, motivating readers to pursue their dreams with confidence and determination.
Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out on your journey, "Take a Chance!" is a must-read. Larry Gaynor has crafted a practical guide that empowers readers to overcome obstacles, seize opportunities, and ultimately make it big in the world of business. This book is a game-changer for anyone with the courage to take a chance on their dreams.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews