Richard M. Devos Quotes

Powerful Richard M. Devos for Daily Growth

About Richard M. Devos

Richard Marvin DeVos Sr., born on July 4, 1926, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, was an American entrepreneur, philanthropist, and political activist, best known as the co-founder of Amway Corporation, one of the world's largest direct selling companies. DeVos grew up during the Great Depression, working various jobs to help his family financially. His entrepreneurial spirit was ignited in his teenage years when he started a newspaper route and expanded it into a small business. In 1959, DeVos joined forces with Jay Van Andel to establish the Amway Corporation, initially operating as a distributor for Nutrilite Products, a vitamin company. The duo's innovative marketing strategy, based on a multi-level marketing model, propelled Amway to global success. DeVos was deeply influenced by the teachings of self-help author and motivational speaker, Norman Vincent Peale. Peale's principles of positive thinking, personal responsibility, and optimism permeated DeVos's life and business ventures. In addition to his corporate achievements, DeVos made significant contributions to philanthropy and politics. He was a prominent Republican donor, supporting various political campaigns, including those of President Gerald Ford and George W. Bush. In 1984, he served as the vice presidential nominee on Ronald Reagan's ticket. DeVos passed away in 2018, leaving behind a rich legacy. His quotes reflect his strong values, such as: "Most successful people have not achieved their success alone, but by building teams of smart, ambitious, and highly competent individuals." And, "I believe that the free enterprise system is the most efficient means ever devised by mankind to organize human effort for the maximum production of goods and services."

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"We can't all be heroes because somebody has to sit on the curb and clap as they go by."

This quote emphasizes the interdependence of individuals in society. Not everyone needs to be a hero or take on the limelight, but everyone has an essential role. While some are actively engaged in achieving great things (the heroes), others provide support, encouragement, and recognition (those who clap from the curb). Both roles are equally important for progress and success. The quote also suggests that acknowledging and appreciating those who make a difference, even if it's not as visible, is just as significant as being a hero oneself.


"The greatest use of a life is to touch the lives of other people positively."

The quote emphasizes that the primary purpose and value of one's life lie in its ability to have a positive impact on others. By "touching" other people's lives, we create meaningful connections, inspire growth, and leave lasting, beneficial impressions. This perspective underscores the importance of kindness, empathy, and compassion as guiding principles for personal fulfillment and societal progress.


"Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success."

This quote by Richard M. DeVos emphasizes the importance of teamwork in achieving success. The first part, "Coming together," signifies the initial step towards collaboration or union, which can be any group, from a family to a workforce. The second part, "keeping together," suggests maintaining unity and harmony within the group is crucial for progress - it's not enough just to come together; staying united is essential. Lastly, "working together" symbolizes active cooperation towards a shared goal or vision, which leads to eventual success. In essence, the quote underscores that while starting something as a team is important, enduring togetherness and actively working towards common goals are what truly lead to achievement.


"Success is not necessary the amount of money you make, it's the difference you make in people's lives."

This quote by Richard M. DeVos emphasizes that success goes beyond financial wealth; it involves making a positive impact on people's lives. It suggests that true success is derived from leaving a meaningful and beneficial imprint, rather than solely accumulating material possessions or money. This perspective encourages us to prioritize acts of kindness, service, and personal growth, ultimately creating a more compassionate and interconnected world.


"The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well."

This quote by Richard M. DeVos suggests that the primary objective in life isn't personal happiness but rather making a meaningful impact. The pursuit of usefulness, honor, compassion, and a positive difference in the world is what truly gives life significance. It emphasizes that living well means using one's time, talents, and resources to contribute positively to society. Essentially, DeVos encourages us to strive for a purpose-driven life, where our actions have lasting value beyond personal satisfaction.


It is impossible to win the race unless you venture to run, impossible to win the victory unless you dare to battle.

- Richard M. DeVos

Battle, Race, Unless, Venture

Life... It tends to respond to our outlook, to shape itself to meet our expectations.

- Richard M. DeVos

Meet, Shape, Itself, Respond

Money cannot buy peace of mind. It cannot heal ruptured relationships, or build meaning into a life that has none.

- Richard M. DeVos

Money, Mind, Buy, Heal

If I had some idea of a finish line, don't you think I would have crossed it years ago?

- Richard M. DeVos

Think, Some, Idea, Crossed

Few things in the world are more powerful than a positive push. A smile. A world of optimism and hope. A 'you can do it' when things are tough.

- Richard M. DeVos

Positive, Optimism, More, Push

The easiest thing to find on God's green earth is someone to tell you all the things you cannot do.

- Richard M. DeVos

Green, Tell, Someone, Easiest Thing

If you have a dream, give it a chance to happen.

- Richard M. DeVos

Chance, Dream, Give, Happen

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