This memoir by Ina Garten (yes, the Barefoot Contessa!) is about more than food. It’s about real life. It’s about taking chances, believing in yourself, and being ready when a good opportunity shows up.
“I was never waiting for luck. I was always preparing for it.” – Ina Garten
Ina shares her life story, from working in the White House to running a small food store, becoming a bestselling cookbook author, and hosting her own TV show. She shows us how “luck” comes to those who take action and stay ready.
This book is perfect for anyone, especially women in midlife, who want to make a change, chase a dream, or start fresh.
Ina didn’t grow up planning to be on TV. She started in government, working on serious topics like nuclear energy. But she wasn’t happy.
One day, she took a risk. She bought a small food store in the Hamptons, even though she had no business experience.
What we can learn:
• You don’t have to stay in a job that drains you.
• You don’t need to have all the answers to start.
• Follow what makes you feel alive, even if it feels scary.
Ina talks a lot about being prepared. Whether it’s a dinner party or a big life decision, she believes in planning ahead and doing your best.
“Things don’t fall into place without effort. Being ready makes the difference.”
What we can learn:
• Learn what you need to know and keep practicing.
• Put in the work behind the scenes.
• Luck often shows up when you’re already working hard.
Ina reminds us that success doesn’t come overnight. Her first cookbook was rejected. Some people didn’t think her show would work. But she didn’t give up.
“Success is built from many small steps.”
What we can learn:
• Be patient with your dreams.
• Don’t let rejection stop you.
• Stay focused on what you love and keep moving forward.
One of the sweetest parts of this book is Ina’s love for her husband Jeffrey. He’s supported her through everything. They share a deep bond and lots of laughter.
What we can learn:
• Surround yourself with people who believe in you.
• Celebrate life with your loved ones.
• Good relationships give us strength during hard times.
If you’re over 40 and wondering “Is it too late to change?”, this book says: No way!
Ina didn’t become really famous until later in life. Her story proves you can glow up at any age.
What we can learn:
• Midlife is a great time to try something new.
• You’ve got wisdom, experience, and strength on your side.
• Don’t count yourself out—your next chapter might be the best yet.
Ina encourages us to be bold and true to who we are. She shows that confidence doesn’t mean being loud. It means believing in yourself, even when others doubt you.
What we can learn:
• Take the leap, even if you’re nervous.
• You don’t need to be perfect, just real.
• You have something special to offer. Trust that.
1.Luck happens when you’re prepared.
2.It’s never too late to try something new.
3.Listen to your gut, it knows the truth.
4.Start small and grow over time.
5.People you love matter, lean on them.
6.Say no to what doesn’t feel right.
7.Don’t wait for permission, go for it.
8.Make life beautiful, even in small ways.
9.Celebrate small wins, they matter.
10.A good life isn’t perfect, it’s meaningful.
Some of the best parts of the book:
• Ina baking the same cake 10 times until it was just right.
• Getting told “no” by publishers, but writing her cookbook anyway.
• Her sweet love letters to Jeffrey (turned into fun TV moments!).
• Her belief that simple things, done well, are the most powerful.
This book is full of little reminders that you’re not too late, too old, or too behind. You are exactly where you need to be, and the life you want is still possible.
“You’re not waiting for luck. You’re getting ready for it.”
✨ Here’s how to use this wisdom in your life:
• Start that dream project, even if it’s small.
• Ask yourself: What do I truly want?
• Take small steps daily. Be ready when the good stuff comes.
• Build a life that feels like joy, not just tasks.
Ina Garten’s Be Ready When the Luck Happens is like a warm hug and a pep talk all in one. It’s real, honest, and full of love and lessons.
If you’re thinking about changing your life, even just a little, this book will give you the courage to begin.
“Luck may knock, but it’s your job to open the door.”
So start getting ready, beautiful soul. Your next chapter is waiting, and it’s going to be amazing.
With love and inspiration,
Jax Stys
Midlife Glow-Up Coach & Cheerleader
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