The Greatest Salesman in the World by Og Mandino

Last updated: Jul 4, 2023

Summary of The Greatest Salesman in the World by Og Mandino

The Greatest Salesman in the World is a self-help book written by Og Mandino. The book is presented as a fictional story, following the life of a young camel boy named Hafid who becomes the greatest salesman in the world.

The story begins with Hafid, a poor and discouraged young man, who is given a chance to work for a successful merchant named Pathros. Pathros entrusts Hafid with ten ancient scrolls, each containing a valuable lesson on how to achieve success in life and salesmanship.

Hafid is instructed to read each scroll three times a day for thirty days, and to follow the principles outlined in them. The scrolls contain wisdom on various topics such as persistence, love, and the power of positive thinking.

As Hafid reads and applies the teachings of the scrolls, his life begins to transform. He becomes more confident, motivated, and successful in his sales career. Hafid's reputation as a great salesman spreads, and he eventually becomes the wealthiest and most respected man in his city.

Throughout the book, Hafid encounters various challenges and setbacks, but he perseveres and continues to apply the principles from the scrolls. He learns the importance of persistence, taking action, and maintaining a positive attitude even in the face of adversity.

The book also emphasizes the importance of treating others with kindness and respect. Hafid learns that true success is not just about financial wealth, but also about making a positive impact on the lives of others.

In the end, Hafid passes on the scrolls to his apprentice, who will continue the legacy of the greatest salesman in the world. The book concludes with a powerful message about the potential for greatness that lies within each individual.

The Greatest Salesman in the World is a motivational and inspirational book that teaches valuable life lessons through an engaging story. It encourages readers to embrace positive habits, overcome challenges, and strive for personal and professional success.

1. The Power of Persistence

One of the key takeaways from "The Greatest Salesman in the World" is the power of persistence. The book emphasizes the importance of never giving up, even in the face of failure or adversity. It teaches that success is not achieved overnight, but through consistent effort and determination.

The main character in the book, Hafid, learns this lesson when he is given ten scrolls containing ancient wisdom. Each scroll contains a principle that he must live by for thirty days before moving on to the next one. By following these principles and persistently applying them in his life, Hafid is able to transform himself from a poor camel boy to the greatest salesman in the world.

2. The Habit of Reading

Another important takeaway from the book is the habit of reading. Hafid is instructed to read each scroll three times a day, morning, noon, and night. This practice helps him internalize the principles and make them a part of his daily life.

The book emphasizes the power of reading as a means of self-improvement and personal growth. It encourages readers to develop the habit of reading books that inspire and motivate them. By regularly exposing oneself to positive and uplifting ideas, one can cultivate a mindset of success and abundance.

3. The Importance of Taking Action

"The Greatest Salesman in the World" stresses the importance of taking action. It teaches that knowledge alone is not enough; one must apply that knowledge in order to achieve results. Hafid learns that it is not enough to simply read the scrolls; he must actively practice the principles they contain.

The book encourages readers to take action towards their goals and dreams. It emphasizes the need to step out of one's comfort zone and take risks. By taking consistent action, one can overcome obstacles and achieve success.

4. The Power of Gratitude

Gratitude is another key theme in the book. Hafid is taught to cultivate an attitude of gratitude towards everything in his life, both the good and the bad. He learns that by focusing on the positive and being grateful for what he has, he attracts more abundance into his life.

The book teaches that gratitude is a powerful force that can transform one's life. By expressing gratitude for the present moment and the blessings in one's life, one can shift their focus from lack to abundance and attract more positive experiences.

5. The Importance of Persistence

The book emphasizes the importance of persistence in achieving success. Hafid is taught to never give up, even in the face of failure or adversity. He learns that success is not achieved overnight, but through consistent effort and determination.

The book encourages readers to persist in their goals and dreams. It teaches that setbacks and challenges are a natural part of the journey towards success and should be embraced as opportunities for growth.

6. The Power of Visualization

"The Greatest Salesman in the World" highlights the power of visualization. Hafid is instructed to visualize his goals and dreams as if they have already been achieved. By vividly imagining himself as the greatest salesman in the world, he is able to manifest that reality.

The book teaches that visualization is a powerful tool for creating the life one desires. By consistently visualizing one's goals and dreams, one can align their thoughts and actions with their desired outcomes and attract them into their life.

7. The Importance of Self-belief

The book emphasizes the importance of self-belief in achieving success. Hafid learns that in order to become the greatest salesman in the world, he must first believe in himself and his abilities.

The book encourages readers to cultivate a strong sense of self-belief. It teaches that one's thoughts and beliefs shape their reality, and by believing in oneself, one can overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.

8. The Power of Love

Love is a central theme in "The Greatest Salesman in the World." Hafid learns that love is the greatest force in the universe and that by approaching his work with love and compassion, he can achieve extraordinary success.

The book teaches that love is not just an emotion, but a way of being. By approaching life with love and kindness, one can create meaningful connections and attract abundance into their life.