Summary
As a Man Thinketh, Allen’s most famous book, today is considered a classic self-help book. Its underlying premise is that noble thoughts make a noble person, while lowly thoughts make a miserable person. In “As a Man Thinketh,” James Allen reveals how our thoughts determine reality. Whether or not we are conscious of it, our underlying beliefs shape our character, our health and appearance, our circumstances, and our destinies. Allen shows how we can master our thoughts to create the life we want, lest we drift through life unconscious of the inner forces that keep us mired in failure and frustration. “The Vision that you glorify in your mind, the Ideal that you enthrone in your heart-this you will build your life by, this you will become.” This principle, which others have called THE SECRET or the LAW OF ATTRACTION, was clearly and convincingly stated for the first time in “As a Man Thinketh.” As a being of Power, Intelligence, and Love, and the lord of his own thoughts, man holds the key to every situation, and contains within himself that transforming and regenerative agency by which he may make himself what he wills.
Review
In about 40 pages, this book will provide more value than most other success books will provide in 300+ pages. Most people will read the entire book in one sitting and put it down forever. That is probably the worst thing you can do and not what the author originally intended. He wrote in a very succinct form because he wanted every single line to be of great value to the reader. Each line is meant to stir thoughts and cause you to meditate on how you are living your life. It boils down to a simple question: what are the dominating thoughts in your mind?
By controlling your thoughts, you can control your circumstances. This seems simple at first but really it is one of the hardest to implement. Try controlling your thoughts for 5 minutes. It’s hard isn’t it? We constantly have random thoughts flying in and this prevents us from focusing on the goals that will bring us true happiness.
This book does not give you specific exercises and that may frustrate some readers. It is instead meant to inspire you to find your own way to control your thoughts. If you are able to wrap your mind around his message, your life will be changed forever.
Nikolai’s rating: 5 stars.
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