An entertaining read for those interested in the Fashion Industry, How to make a Million, and Black Culture. His purpose in writing the book seemed to be to share his story and how he stumbled into the Fashion Industry and hiked his way up the ladder.
After 40+ years of retailing, I was familiar with the fashion industry schedule, timing, competition and challenges. For me, growing up and spending most of my adult life in mixed race communities, I very much appreciated learning about Black Culture. And, frankly, more of that information should be taught in our schools if we’re really going to have respect for each other within our boundaries.
Daymond’s sharing of his family values, that shaped and molded his business ethics, showed his true self. The comments such as:
- Focus on what you want!
- Count yourself a success if you stay out of jail – that was the neighborhood standard
- He stayed away from major crime because he respected his mother too much
- Know your business from the ground up.
- Be able to take over the grill at 6PM Saturday night when the chef walks out.
- It’s harder and harder to recognize the world we actually live in up against the one we still imagine.
He really didn’t talk much about “power” during the heart of the book, but did finish it with his thoughts on power, and ended with this comment:
“It’s about knowing when and how to play your position in the jungle – be it lion or hyena.”
I appreciated his thoughts, experiences and knowing more about his community. I’m looking forward to a new year of “Shark Tank” to hear him differently.
Full Disclosure – Mr. John provided me a copy of his book via download. My review is my own opinion.