Think and Grow Rich, a 1937 book by Napoleon Hill, is presented here through excerpts. The text emphasizes the 13 principles for achieving riches, highlighting the importance of intense desire, faith, autosuggestion, and persistent planning. It uses numerous examples of successful individuals, like Henry Ford and Thomas Edison, to illustrate the power of positive thinking and a mastermind alliance in achieving goals. The excerpts also explore the role of capital and organized effort in economic success, contrasting it with detrimental approaches like relying on luck or demanding without contributing. Finally, the text provides self-assessment questions to encourage readers toward self-awareness and control over their thoughts.

Thinking and Growing Rich Study Guide

Quiz

1. How did Edwin C. Barnes initially approach Thomas Edison, and what was unique about his approach?
2. Barnes went to Edison not seeking a job but a business partnership and approached him by traveling by freight train and declared his intention to go into business with the inventor, showing determination.
3. According to the text, how is the power of a ‘definite desire’ illustrated by Barnes’ story?
4. Barnes’ desire to partner with Edison was so intense that it became an obsession that drove him to persistent action and ultimately led him to create the opportunity he was seeking.
5. What lesson did Ru Darby learn from his experience with gold mining?
6. Darby’s experience of quitting when he was three feet away from gold taught him the value of persistence, which he then applied to his successful career in life insurance sales.
7. Explain the significance of the little girl’s actions in the story about the 50-cent lesson in persistence.
8. The little girl’s determined insistence on getting the 50 cents illustrated that even a seemingly powerless individual can succeed through persistence and a refusal to take “no” for an answer.
9. What are the six definite, practical steps for transmuting desire for riches into its financial equivalent?
10. The six steps involve fixing a specific amount, determining what you will give in return, setting a deadline, creating a concrete plan, writing the plan down, and reading it aloud twice daily, visualizing yourself as already having what you want.
11. How did the author’s son overcome his deafness, according to the text?
12. The author’s son overcame his deafness through the author’s burning desire to help him, combined with faith, which helped them translate thoughts of normal hearing into a physical reality.
13. What is the role of the subconscious mind in achieving one’s desires?
14. The subconscious mind acts as a translator, taking thoughts and desires that are emotionally charged with faith and turning them into their physical equivalent.
15. According to the text, what is “autosuggestion” and how does it work?
16. Autosuggestion is the process of repeatedly affirming orders or instructions to the subconscious mind, leading it to accept those suggestions as truth and to work towards making them a reality.
17. In the context of this text, what is “sex transmutation” and why is it significant?
18. Sex transmutation is redirecting the powerful energy of sexual desire into other creative and productive avenues of thought, such as ambition, that is described as a powerful means of achieving success.
19. What are the two forms of leadership, and which one does the text indicate is more effective?
20. The two forms are leadership by force, and leadership by consent, with leadership by consent as the more effective method.

Answer Key

1. Barnes went to Edison not seeking a job but a business partnership and approached him by traveling by freight train and declared his intention to go into business with the inventor, showing determination.
2. Barnes’ desire to partner with Edison was so intense that it became an obsession that drove him to persistent action and ultimately led him to create the opportunity he was seeking.
3. Darby’s experience of quitting when he was three feet away from gold taught him the value of persistence, which he then applied to his successful career in life insurance sales.
4. The little girl’s determined insistence on getting the 50 cents illustrated that even a seemingly powerless individual can succeed through persistence and a refusal to take “no” for an answer.
5. The six steps involve fixing a specific amount, determining what you will give in return, setting a deadline, creating a concrete plan, writing the plan down, and reading it aloud twice daily, visualizing yourself as already having what you want.
6. The author’s son overcame his deafness through the author’s burning desire to help him, combined with faith, which helped them translate thoughts of normal hearing into a physical reality.
7. The subconscious mind acts as a translator, taking thoughts and desires that are emotionally charged with faith and turning them into their physical equivalent.
8. Autosuggestion is the process of repeatedly affirming orders or instructions to the subconscious mind, leading it to accept those suggestions as truth and to work towards making them a reality.
9. Sex transmutation is redirecting the powerful energy of sexual desire into other creative and productive avenues of thought, such as ambition, that is described as a powerful means of achieving success.
10. The two forms are leadership by force, and leadership by consent, with leadership by consent as the more effective method.

Essay Questions

1. Analyze the role of persistence and a “burning desire” in achieving success, using specific examples from the text. How do these concepts apply to both personal and professional contexts?
2. Discuss the relationship between thought, emotion, and the subconscious mind as presented in the text. How do these elements interact to influence the achievement of goals and the creation of reality?
3. Explore the concept of “autosuggestion,” as described in the text, and its role in cultivating faith and self-confidence. How can individuals utilize this principle to overcome obstacles and achieve success?
4. Examine the idea of “sex transmutation” and its potential for personal growth and creative expression as presented in the text. How can individuals redirect sexual energy towards achieving their goals?
5. Evaluate the 30 major reasons for failure outlined in the text. Which of these factors do you find most relevant in modern society, and how can they be overcome?

Glossary of Key Terms

• Definite Purpose: A clear and specific goal that one aims to achieve. It provides direction and focus for actions.
• Burning Desire: An intense and passionate longing for something that becomes a motivating force driving action and persistence.
• Persistence: The quality of continuing steadfastly despite obstacles, failures, or opposition, essential for achieving long-term goals.
• Mastermind Group: A group of two or more people who come together in a spirit of harmony to combine their minds and knowledge for mutual benefit and the attainment of a common goal.
• Autosuggestion: The process of repeatedly affirming statements to the subconscious mind to influence beliefs and actions.
• Subconscious Mind: The part of the mind below conscious awareness, responsible for processing and translating thoughts into physical reality.
• Faith: A state of mind in which one believes in the attainment of a desired outcome, playing a role in the subconscious acceptance of ideas.
• Infinite Intelligence: A universal source of wisdom and power that individuals can tap into through faith and desire.
• Sex Transmutation: The redirection of sexual desire into creative and productive avenues, serving as a powerful motivational force.
• The Ether: A concept described as the medium through which thoughts travel and attract related vibrations, both positive and negative, influencing actions and outcomes.

The Science of Getting Rich

Okay, here is a detailed briefing document summarizing the main themes and important ideas from the provided text, with quotes:

Briefing Document: Analysis of “01.pdf”

Overall Theme: The power of thought, desire, faith, and persistence in achieving wealth and success. The text emphasizes that riches are not solely about money but also about knowledge, personal growth, and service. The core message is that anyone can achieve their goals with the right mindset and consistent action.

Key Concepts and Ideas:

1. The Power of Definite Desire:

• The text establishes that “thoughts are things” and that powerful outcomes are achieved when thoughts are combined with “definiteness of purpose, persistence, and a burning desire.”
• Edwin C. Barnes’ Story: This is presented as a prime example. Barnes desired to be Edison’s business associate, not employee, a very definite goal. He traveled by freight train (“blind baggage”) due to his lack of funds, demonstrating his strong resolve.
• Quote: “He did not say to himself, ‘I will try to induce Edison to give me a job of some sort.’ he said, ‘I will see Edison and put him on notice that I have come to go into business with him.’”
• Barnes’s success wasn’t immediate, but he constantly intensified his desire, demonstrating the importance of staying committed to your goal.
• Quote: “…he was constantly intensifying his desire to become the business associate of Edison.”
• Opportunity often arrives unexpectedly, “disguised in the form of Misfortune or temporary defeat.” Barnes seized on the unpopular Edison dictating machine to establish his partnership.
• His story highlights the idea that with enough desire, one can “literally think himself into a partnership,” and achieve great wealth even without initial resources or advantages.
• Quote: “Barnes literally thought himself into a partnership with the great Edison. He thought himself into a fortune. He had nothing to start with except the capacity to know what he wanted and the determination to stand by that desire until he realized it.”

1. The Importance of Persistence:

• Ru Darby’s Story: Illustrates the cost of giving up too soon. Darby and his uncle quit gold mining “3 feet from gold,” where the vein was later discovered by a junkman. This highlights that “one of the most common causes of failure is the habit of quitting when one is overtaken by temporary defeat.”
• Quote: “…the vein would be found just 3 feet from where the Darbys had stopped drilling.”
• Darby’s later success in life insurance came from the lesson he learned in the mines. He decided he would “never stop because men say no,” turning a weakness into a strength,
• Quote: “I stopped 3 feet from gold, but I will never stop because men say no when I ask them to buy insurance.”
• The anecdote of the colored child demanding 50 cents from Darby’s uncle emphasizes the power of unwavering persistence. This shows that “no” is not necessarily a final answer.
• The text reinforces that “more than 500 of the most successful men… told the author their greatest success came Just One Step Beyond the point at which defeat had overtaken them.”

1. Burning Desire and “Burning Bridges”:

• Success requires a “burning desire” so strong that it becomes an “all-consuming obsession.”
• The burning of ships story by the warrior demonstrates that cutting off all options for retreat is essential for total commitment.
• Quote: “you see the boats going up in smoke that means that we cannot leave these Shores alive unless we win we now have no choice we win or we perish”
• Marshall Field’s commitment to rebuild his store after the Great Chicago Fire is used as another example, stating, “on that very spot I will build the world’s greatest store.” This emphasizes the power of unwavering commitment and that “easy” choices will not lead to success.

1. Six Steps to Transmuting Desire into Riches:

• Step 1: Fix the exact amount of money desired. Be specific.
• Step 2: Determine what you will give in return. There’s “no such reality as something for nothing.”
• Step 3: Establish a definite date for possession of the money.
• Step 4: Create a definite plan and begin acting immediately.
• Step 5: Write a clear statement of the above four points.
• Step 6: Read the statement aloud twice daily, “see and feel and believe yourself already in possession of the money.” The sixth step is most important and connects to the idea of “money consciousness,” “so thoroughly saturated with the desire for money that one can see oneself already in possession.”

1. Faith and Autosuggestion:

• Faith is described as the “head chemist of the mind”, which translates thought into a spiritual equivalent and then into reality.
• The emotions of faith, love, and sex, when combined, amplify thought impulses, creating an emotional charge that leads to physical results.
• Faith is presented as a “state of mind” that can be induced through autosuggestion – “repetition of affirmation of orders to your subconscious mind.”
• The text draws an analogy to how people become criminals by repeated exposure, suggesting that positive self-suggestion will lead to faith.
• Quote: “any impulse of thought which is repeatedly passed on to the subconscious mind is finally accepted and acted upon by the subconscious mind which proceeds to translate that impulse into its physical equivalent…”
• The subconscious mind acts on negative impulses as well as positive ones, illustrating how belief in failure can become a self-fulfilling prophecy.
• It emphasizes the importance of “deceiving your subconscious mind” through acting as if one is already in possession of the desired outcome.
• The need to master the 13 principles, to then develop faith, is highlighted.
• Quote: “faith is a state of mind which you may develop at will after you have mastered the 13 principles.”

1. The Power of the Subconscious Mind:

• The text highlights that “every man is what he is because of the dominating thoughts which he permits to occupy his mind”. These thoughts, especially when mixed with emotion, “constitute a magnetic force which attracts from the vibrations of the Ether other similar or related thoughts.”
• The subconscious mind acts as a “chemical laboratory” and does not distinguish between constructive and destructive thoughts, thereby translating both into physical reality.
• Repetition of thoughts will program the subconscious mind, either for success or failure.
• The importance of taking inventory of one’s mental assets and liabilities is emphasized.
• A self-confidence formula is provided. The formula, using autosuggestion, encourages visualizing the person you want to become, demanding self-confidence, and having a plan.
• The law of autosuggestion is described as having the power to lead to peace and prosperity, or failure and death, depending on how it is used. This is presented as a natural law, which when understood, can be harnessed.
• The mind is described as “constantly attracting vibration which harmonise with that which dominates” and that what you think about will grow.
• Quote: “any thought idea plan or purpose which one holds in one’s mind attracts from the vibrations of The Ether a host of its relative relatives adds these relatives to its own force and grows until it becomes the dominating motivating Master of the individual in whose mind it has been housed”
• The example of Joseph Grant who died of “mental suicide” highlights the power of the subconscious to translate thoughts into reality even with negative thoughts.

1. The Example of the Deaf Son:

• The author’s story of his son’s deafness is used to illustrate the power of desire and faith. He refused to accept his son as a deaf-mute, even when doctors said his son was missing ear canals.
• He instilled the desire to hear into his son’s mind through the power of suggestion, creating a “bridge” between his brain and the world of sound, in spite of physical barriers.
• Quote: “I planted in his mind the desire to hear and to speak and live as a normal person there went with that impulse some strange influence which caused nature to become bridge builder and span the Gulf of Silence between his brain and the outer World”.
• The story further illustrates the importance of self-belief and the capacity to overcome obstacles.
• Quote: “nothing is impossible to the person who backs Desire with enduring Faith”

1. The Creation of U.S. Steel as a Product of Thought:

• Charles Schwab’s speech is credited as the catalyst for the creation of U.S. Steel, showing how an idea can lead to massive financial undertaking.
• Schwab’s speech, even without explicit details, was a “magic of personality” and a “full-fledged clear-cut program” that convinced J.P. Morgan.
• Quote: “Schwab’s eloquence took JP Morgan to the Heights from which he could visualize the solid results of the most daring Financial undertaking ever conceived”
• The power of an idea to transform industry is the central takeaway, with the creation of the US Steel Corporation highlighted as an example of what is achievable with vision and a clear plan.

1. Imagination and Ideas:

• The text stresses that “ideas are the beginning points of all fortunes” and “products of the imagination”.
• The story of Coca-Cola is used to illustrate how a single idea mixed with imagination can turn into a vast financial empire, stating, “truly thoughts are things and their scope of operation is the world itself”.
• Dr. Gonzalez’s creation of Armore Institute of Technology using one powerful decision and a plan to preach about “what he would do if he had a million dollars” is another example of the power of imagination and a definite plan.
• Quote: “God seems to throw himself on the side of the man who knows exactly what he wants if he is determined to get just that”
• These stories show how ideas translate to financial success if coupled with belief and action.

1. Planning and The Mastermind Principle:

• The text emphasizes that one should “make a plan” and “begin at once, whether you are ready or not.”
• It mentions the importance of a “Mastermind group,” a “friendly alliance” of minds that is required for success, as no one can be successful alone.
• Quote: “two heads are better than one” and “two or more minds coordinated in a Spirit of Harmony provide more thought energy than a single mind”.
• The concept of “friendly alliance of minds” can lead to “power”.
• It encourages readers to seek out these alliances for added perspective and support, drawing on the experiences of Henry Ford and Mahatma Gandhi as examples.

1. The Law of “Give and Take” and The Importance of Service:

• It states “ there is no such reality as something for nothing”.
• Success comes when you “give more than you receive”
• The “law of harmonious cooperation” is highlighted.
• It suggests the importance of being willing to give service and help others, using the example of the Golden Rule.

1. Temporary Defeat and The Need to Re-Plan:

• The importance of not letting temporary defeats become permanent is highlighted.
• It mentions Henry Ford, James J. Hill, and others, who met temporary defeat but created new plans.
• When defeat comes “accept it as a signal that your plans are not sound, rebuild those plans and set sail once more.”
• The text suggests that “quitter never wins and a winner never quits”.

1. Leadership, Followers, and Personal Service:

• The text suggests that there are leaders and followers, and one must decide which one they are going to be.
• It highlights the key attributes of leadership. These include: unwavering courage, self-control, sense of justice, definite decisions, definite plans, willingness to do more than paid for, pleasing personality, sympathy and understanding, mastery of detail, assuming responsibility and cooperation.
• There are two types of leadership, leadership through consent and leadership through force.
• The importance of proper planning in marketing personal services and ideas is discussed.

1. Thirty Major Causes of Failure:

• It provides a self-assessment based on a list of thirty major causes of failure, encouraging the reader to check themselves against the list and self-evaluate
• The list includes lack of purpose, lack of ambition, insufficient education, ill health, procrastination, lack of persistence, negative personality, lack of self-discipline, etc.
• It highlights that one has “absolute control over but one thing, and that is your thoughts” and this must be managed to control your destiny.
• This list is important as an understanding of weakness is the first step to correcting it.
• Quote: “if I had the courage to see myself as I really am I would find out what is wrong with me and correct it then I might have a chance to profit by my mistakes and learn something from the experience of others for I know that there is something wrong with me or I would now be where I would have been if I had spent more time analyzing my weaknesses and less time building Alibis to cover for them.”

1. Persistence and Its Development:

• Persistence is a “state of mind” that can be cultivated through eight factors: definiteness of purpose, desire, self-reliance, definiteness of plans, accurate knowledge, cooperation, willpower, and habit.
• It highlights the symptoms of a lack of persistence, using those as warnings for the reader.
• It is highlighted that persistence is a habit and that one must analyze themselves to make sure that their weaknesses are not costing them great results.

1. The Power of The Mastermind Principle:

• It further highlights the power of combining minds and that “men take on the nature and the habits and the power of thought of those with whom they associate in a spirit of sympathy and Harmony”.
• Examples of Henry Ford and Mahatma Gandhi are provided to illustrate the power of the Mastermind principle.
• It suggests that infinite intelligence can be tapped into through Mastermind groups, that “two or more people coordinate in a Spirit of Harmony” and that they are thereby “in position to absorb power directly”.

1. Sex Transmutation:

• The text explains that “transmute” means changing one energy form into another and that “sex desire is the most powerful of human desires”.
• It states that sex transmutation is to ” switch the Mind from thoughts of physical expression to thoughts of some other nature”.
• It lists ten stimuli to which the mind responds to and puts sex at the top.
• It claims the men and women of “great achievement … possessed highly developed sex Natures” and that “the emotion of sex is an irresistible force”.
• It describes how “the road to genius consists of the development, control, and use of sex, love, and romance,” that the control of these through one’s willpower is essential.
• The text notes that it is the combination of love and sex that can bring balance and purpose.
• It also notes that “nature has provided man with a chemistry of the mind which operates in a manner similar to the principles of chemistry of matter” and that “emotions can be combined to create a poison that destroys justice and fairness.
• It encourages the reader to replace all destructive emotions with positive ones.

1. The Power of Decision:

• The text suggests that “the ability to reach prompt and definite decisions is essential to success”.
• It mentions that the habit of indecision must be replaced by decisiveness and that “worry is a state of mind based upon fear.
• It suggests that once a decision is reached, it is important to “burn” all routes of retreat.
• The story of the man who learned he was about to die and decided to accept his fate shows the power of decision on acceptance, and that “decision can prevent one’s acceptance of undesired circumstances”.

1. The Devils Workshop: Susceptibility to Negative Influences

• The seventh basic evil is “susceptibility to negative influences” which, if not understood and dealt with, can lead to an environment for failure to thrive.
• This is a subtle “state of mind” that can easily be missed, and it can “strike from all sides”.
• It provides steps to protect oneself against negative influences. These include using willpower, recognizing laziness and susceptibility to suggestion, counteracting basic fears, not surrounding yourself with negative people, and practicing autosuggestion.
• The text encourages the reader to clean out their “medicine cabinet” and be proactive about their health, stating to not “expect troubles”.
• The most common human weakness is leaving one’s mind open to negative influences from others, and this is “fatal to success”.
• The text suggests that all who desire success must become aware of how much they are influenced by outside thoughts and work to filter them out.

1. Self-Analysis Test Questions:

• The document provides an extensive list of self-analysis questions, encouraging an honest internal evaluation. These questions cover multiple topics, including health, mindset, habits, influence, goals, fears, etc.
• It suggests that one must “state your answers aloud so you can hear your own voice” to be more truthful with themselves.
• It suggests seeking the advice of those who do not flatter them.
• It suggests the use of the self-analysis list as a tool for growth and understanding, to better see “yourself as you really are” and how you may improve.
• Quote: “If you have answered all these questions truthfully, you know more about yourself than the majority of people.”

1. Aliis for Failure

• The document lists 57 “common aliis” used by those who fail to explain away their lack of success.
• It emphasizes that using these excuses to not achieve your goals will lead to failure and that “aliis cannot be used for money”.
• The text suggests that “a man’s Alibi is the child of his own imagination,” and that people create them and therefore will defend them.
• It encourages the reader to stop fooling themselves and start working on the issues rather than making excuses.
• The text concludes with the analogy of life as a checkerboard, stating that “your men will be wiped off the board by time” if action isn’t taken.
• The text concludes by stating that a “burning desire for a definite form of riches” is the master key that “unlocks the door to Life’s bountiful riches”.

Conclusion:

This document serves as a primer on the principles of success, emphasizing the power of mindset, unwavering desire, faith, and persistent action. The text encourages a proactive approach to life, urging readers to take responsibility for their thoughts and to consciously work towards their desired outcomes. It highlights that everyone has the power to achieve their dreams by harnessing the power of the subconscious mind and having a strong faith in their ability to succeed. It is presented as a how-to for “thinking and growing rich” in all facets of life.

Thinking and Growing Rich: Principles of Success

FAQ: Principles of Success and Wealth Creation

1. What is the core idea behind the concept of “thinking and growing rich”?
2. The central idea is that thoughts, especially when combined with a burning desire, definiteness of purpose, and persistence, can be translated into material wealth and other tangible achievements. This is exemplified by Edwin C. Barnes, who, through a focused desire to be in business with Thomas Edison, transformed his ambition into a real partnership and a substantial fortune. It’s not merely wishing for wealth, but having an obsessive, well-defined desire, coupled with a plan and unwavering commitment.
3. How important is “definiteness of purpose” in achieving success?

Definiteness of purpose is crucial. It’s not enough to vaguely desire riches; one must have a clear, specific goal in mind, both in terms of the desired outcome and the timeline. The example of Dr. Frank W. Gonzalez, who decided he would get a million dollars in a week for his college, underscores the power of this. This specificity, combined with a plan, activates the subconscious mind to identify opportunities and resources to achieve the goal, moving past merely hoping for a result to actively working toward it.

1. Why is “persistence” considered so vital, and how is it developed?
2. Persistence is essential because setbacks and temporary defeats are inevitable. It’s the unwavering commitment to a goal, even when faced with obstacles, that distinguishes those who succeed from those who quit. Persistence is developed through several factors: a clear definition of purpose, an intense desire, self-reliance, organized plans, accurate knowledge, cooperation, willpower, and habit. The story of the gold miners who stopped digging just three feet from a massive gold vein, losing it all to a junkman who sought expert advice, highlights the value of not giving up.
3. What is meant by “burning desire,” and why is it more powerful than just wanting something?
4. A “burning desire” is an all-consuming obsession, an intense yearning that dominates one’s thoughts and drives one’s actions. It goes beyond a simple wish or hope. It is a state of mind so powerfully fixed on a goal that it overrides doubts, fears, and setbacks. This intensity fuels the subconscious mind to identify ways to achieve that desire and allows one to convince themselves that they will achieve it. The text uses the metaphor of burning one’s ships, representing a total commitment to the end goal.
5. How can negative thoughts and emotions be overcome, and what role does the subconscious play in this?
6. Negative thoughts and emotions are significant barriers to success and often are the creators of one’s misfortunes. These can be overcome by understanding that the subconscious mind acts upon what it is fed; thus, you can purposefully saturate your subconscious mind with positive thoughts through autosuggestion. Repeatedly affirming your goals and visualizing your success helps reprogram the subconscious, making it more receptive to positive outcomes and actions. The example of the author convincing his son to believe his lack of hearing would become an asset shows the power of autosuggestion in shaping a person’s reality.
7. What is sex transmutation, and how does it relate to personal achievement?
8. Sex transmutation refers to the channeling of sexual energy, one of the most powerful human desires, into other forms of creative or productive activity. Rather than suppressing it, the idea is to redirect that powerful motivation to fuel creative and professional endeavors, leading to heightened imagination, courage, and persistence. The text suggests that great achievers are often those who have learned to transmute this energy.
9. What is the “Mastermind” principle, and how does it help in achieving goals?
10. The “Mastermind” principle involves creating an alliance of two or more people who coordinate their minds, sharing knowledge and working together toward a common goal. This allows access to a wider range of ideas, knowledge, and experience, enhancing the group’s collective potential. The text gives examples of Henry Ford and Mahatma Gandhi to demonstrate the power of this group mindset. It also emphasizes that such partnerships should be based on mutual respect and cooperative effort.
11. What are some common causes of failure, and how can one avoid them?
12. The text lists 30 major causes of failure. These include things such as: lack of a well-defined purpose, lack of persistence, negative personality, the six basic fears (poverty, criticism, ill health, loss of love, old age, and death), procrastination, and susceptibility to negative influences. To avoid them, one needs to cultivate a strong sense of purpose, control negative emotions through autosuggestion, develop persistence, and shield oneself from the negative influences of others. Also, the text stresses the importance of recognizing and analyzing these common pitfalls to take action against them.

Think and Grow Rich: Principles of Achievement

Think and Grow Rich is a book that presents a philosophy of individual achievement, offering 13 steps to riches [1]. It is not intended to be a novel, but rather a textbook on achievement that should be studied, digested, and meditated upon [1]. The book is based on the experiences of over 500 successful individuals [1, 2].

Key concepts in the book:

• The Mastermind Principle: The book emphasizes the importance of exchanging ideas through conferences and forming study clubs with friendly and harmonious people [1]. This is to tap new sources of knowledge and gain insights from others [1].
• The Secret: The book refers to a “money-making secret” that has made fortunes for many [2]. This secret is not directly named but is mentioned throughout the book and is meant to be discovered by the reader [2]. It is said to work more successfully when uncovered rather than named [2]. The secret is not something that can be given away or purchased but is already in the possession of those who are ready for it [3].
• Desire: The book stresses the importance of a burning desire for riches as a starting point for achievement [3-5]. This desire should be definite, and one should be willing to stake their future on its attainment [6].
• Faith: The book emphasizes that the subconscious mind acts on orders given to it with absolute faith [7, 8]. The instructions in the book require the reader to believe they will possess the riches they desire [8].
• Autosuggestion: This is the medium for influencing the subconscious mind through self-administered stimuli [7]. Thoughts mixed with emotion and feeling are more effective than plain, unemotional words in influencing the subconscious mind [8].
• Specialized Knowledge: The book distinguishes between general knowledge and specialized knowledge, asserting that the latter is more useful in the accumulation of money [9]. Knowledge must be organized and directed through practical plans of action [9].
• Imagination: This is the workshop where all plans are created [10]. The book discusses two forms of imagination: synthetic and creative [10]. Synthetic imagination involves arranging old concepts into new combinations, while creative imagination allows direct communication with infinite intelligence [11].
• Organized Planning: The book emphasizes the need for a definite, practical plan created with a Mastermind group [12]. Plans should be continuously checked and replaced if not working [12].
• Persistence: This is essential for transmuting desire into its monetary equivalent [13]. It is based on willpower and desire and should be applied until it becomes a fixed habit [13].
• Power: The book states that power may be produced through the friendly alliance of minds [14]. It also states that infinite intelligence is a major source of power [14].

The book also references specific individuals to illustrate its principles:

• Andrew Carnegie: He revealed the secret of his riches and inspired the author to write the book [2, 12].
• Edwin C. Barnes: He is used as an example of someone who thought his way into a partnership with Thomas Edison [6].
• Henry Ford: His success is attributed to his understanding and application of the principles of success, especially having a strong desire and knowing what he wanted [15].

The book claims that its philosophy is based on the experiences of successful men and is applicable to anyone regardless of their background or education [1-3]. The book also claims that the research that went into its preparation could not be duplicated at any cost [1].

Think and Grow Rich: 13 Steps to Riches

Think and Grow Rich outlines 13 steps to riches, which provide a philosophy of individual achievement [1]. These steps are presented as the shortest dependable philosophy of individual achievement [1]. The book emphasizes that it is a textbook, not a novel, and should be studied and meditated upon [1].

Here are the 13 principles mentioned in the book:

• Desire: The starting point of all achievement is a burning desire for riches [2, 3]. This desire should be definite, and one should be willing to stake their future on its attainment [3]. The book also outlines six steps to transmute desire for riches into its financial equivalent [3].
• Faith: The subconscious mind acts on orders given to it with absolute faith [4]. It is essential to believe in the attainment of one’s desire [3, 4]. The book instructs the reader to see, feel and believe themselves already in possession of the money they desire [3, 5].
• Autosuggestion: This is the medium for influencing the subconscious mind through self-administered stimuli [4]. It involves communicating the object of one’s desire directly to the subconscious mind in a spirit of absolute faith [4]. This can be done through repetition and by mixing emotion and feeling with words [4].
• Specialized Knowledge: The book distinguishes between general knowledge and specialized knowledge, asserting that the latter is more useful in the accumulation of money [5]. Knowledge must be organized and directed through practical plans of action [5].
• Imagination: The imagination is the workshop where all plans are created [6]. The book discusses two forms of imagination: synthetic and creative [6]. Synthetic imagination involves arranging old concepts into new combinations, while creative imagination allows direct communication with infinite intelligence [7]. The book encourages using the synthetic faculty in the process of converting desire into money [7].
• Organized Planning: The book emphasizes the need for a definite, practical plan, created with a Mastermind group [8]. Plans should be continuously checked and replaced if not working [8]. The book also stresses the importance of choosing the right members for a Mastermind group, ensuring they are friendly and harmonious, and that there is perfect harmony between members [1, 8].
• Decision: The book emphasizes the importance of making definite decisions in order to achieve one’s goals [9]. The book asserts that a lack of definiteness in decision is a major weakness of all educational systems [9].
• Persistence: This is essential for transmuting desire into its monetary equivalent [9]. It is based on willpower and desire and should be applied until it becomes a fixed habit [9]. The book suggests that persistence can be developed by having a strong desire, self-reliance, definite plans and cooperation with others [10].
• Power of the Master Mind: The book suggests that power may be produced through the friendly alliance of minds [8, 9]. It also states that infinite intelligence is a major source of power [5]. The book encourages the reader to choose a group that does not take defeat seriously [11].
• The Mystery of Sex Transmutation: This step is not described in the provided text.
• The Subconscious Mind: This is not described as a specific step, but is noted throughout the text as being key to the application of several steps [4, 5, 9].
• The Brain: This is not described as a specific step but is touched on throughout the text [6, 7, 12].
• The Sixth Sense: This step is not described in the provided text.

The book emphasizes the importance of these principles for achieving success and riches [1, 13]. It also notes that the philosophy is based on the experiences of over 500 successful individuals [1, 13]. The book repeatedly mentions a “secret” that is not directly named, but can be discovered through the reading of the book [13, 14].

The Mastermind Principle: Power Through Collaboration

The Mastermind Principle is a key concept in Think and Grow Rich, referring to a coordination of knowledge and effort in a spirit of harmony between two or more people for the attainment of a definite purpose [1]. The book emphasizes that no individual has enough experience, education, native ability, and knowledge to ensure the accumulation of a great fortune without the cooperation of other people [2].

Here are some key aspects of the Mastermind Principle, as discussed in the sources:

• Collaboration and Idea Exchange: The book emphasizes the importance of exchanging ideas through conferences and forming study clubs with friendly and harmonious people. This allows individuals to tap into new sources of knowledge and gain insights from others [3]. The idea is to sit down together and talk freely until a plan is created from their joint contribution [3].
• Forming a Mastermind Alliance: The book instructs the reader to ally with a group of as many people as needed for the creation and carrying out of plans for the accumulation of money [2]. It advises choosing members who do not take defeat seriously [2]. The book also states that the Mastermind principle cannot work where perfect harmony does not prevail [2].
• Benefits for Members: Before forming a Mastermind alliance, it is important to decide what advantages and benefits one may offer to individual members in return for their cooperation [2]. The book states that no one will work indefinitely without some form of compensation [2].
• Regular Meetings: The book recommends arranging to meet with the members of the Mastermind group at least twice a week, or more often if possible, until a plan is perfected [2].
• Joint Creation of Plans: Every plan adopted in the endeavor to accumulate wealth should be the joint creation of oneself and every other member of the Mastermind group [2]. Even if one originates a plan, it should be checked and approved by the Mastermind Alliance [2].
• Economic and Psychic Aspects: The Mastermind Principle has both economic and psychic features [1]. The economic advantage is the access to the advice, counsel, and cooperation of the group. The psychic aspect refers to the creation of a “third mind” when two or more minds come together in harmony [1].
• Source of Power: The book asserts that great power can be accumulated through the Mastermind Principle [1]. When a group of brains are coordinated and function in harmony, the increased energy created through that alliance becomes available to every individual brain in the group [1]. It can also be a way to access infinite intelligence, a major source of power [4].
• Examples of the Mastermind Principle:
• Andrew Carnegie attributed his entire fortune to the power he accumulated through his Mastermind group [1].
• Henry Ford’s most rapid strides became noticeable from the time he became a personal friend of Thomas Edison, and his most outstanding achievements began when he formed acquaintances with Harvey Firestone, John Burrows, and Luther Burbank [1]. The book states that men take on the nature and habits and the power of thought of those with whom they associate in a spirit of sympathy and harmony [1].
• Mahatma Gandhi attained his power through inducing over 200 million people to coordinate mind and body in a spirit of harmony for a definite purpose [4].

The book emphasizes that the Mastermind Principle is essential for the accumulation of great fortunes, as no individual has enough experience and knowledge to achieve this alone [1, 2].

Autosuggestion: Mastering the Subconscious Mind

Autosuggestion is a key principle in Think and Grow Rich, described as the medium for influencing the subconscious mind through self-administered stimuli [1, 2]. It is essentially self-suggestion and the agency of communication between the conscious and subconscious mind [2].

Here’s a breakdown of how autosuggestion is presented in the sources:

• How it works:
• Through dominating thoughts that one allows to remain in the conscious mind, whether these thoughts are negative or positive, the principle of autosuggestion voluntarily reaches and influences the subconscious mind [2].
• All sense impressions perceived through the five senses are stopped by the conscious mind and can either be passed on to the subconscious or rejected [2].
• Repetition is essential for autosuggestion to work [2-4].
• Thoughts mixed with emotion and feeling are more effective than unemotional words in influencing the subconscious mind [2, 5]. This is because the subconscious mind recognizes and acts upon thoughts that are well-mixed with emotion [5].
• The subconscious mind acts first on the dominating desires which have been mixed with emotional feeling such as faith [6].
• Purpose:
• Autosuggestion is the means by which an individual can voluntarily feed their subconscious mind with thoughts of a creative nature or, through neglect, allow destructive thoughts to enter [2].
• It is used to transmute desire into its physical or monetary equivalent [2, 3]. By using autosuggestion, one can convince the subconscious mind that they believe they will receive what they desire, and the subconscious mind will act upon that belief [3].
• It can be used to develop self-confidence [4, 7]. The book provides a self-confidence formula to be memorized and repeated daily to influence one’s thoughts and actions [7].
• It is a tool for giving orders to the subconscious mind [8].
• How to apply autosuggestion:
• The book instructs the reader to read aloud twice a day the written statement of their desire for money, and to see and feel themselves already in possession of the money [2]. By doing this in a spirit of absolute faith, you communicate the object of your desire directly to the subconscious mind [2].
• When giving instructions to the subconscious mind through autosuggestion, one should conduct themselves as if they already possess the material thing they are demanding [4].
• It is important to mix emotion and faith with your words to achieve the desired results [2, 5]. Plain unemotional words will not influence the subconscious mind [5].
• One must have persistence when using autosuggestion [5]. The book emphasizes that the ability to influence the subconscious mind has a price that must be paid through consistent effort [5].
• The book recommends using concentration to focus on a specific desire until it becomes a burning obsession [5]. This involves visualizing the desired amount of money, with eyes closed, until you can see the physical appearance of the money and see yourself in possession of it [5].
• It is important to be alert for plans that may appear as an inspiration, through the sixth sense, and to act on them immediately [5].
• A practical use of autosuggestion involves creating a statement of one’s major purpose, committing it to memory, and repeating it daily until it reaches the subconscious mind [4].
• Relationship to other principles:
• Autosuggestion is a tool for applying the principle of faith, by convincing the subconscious mind that you believe you will receive what you desire [3].
• It’s the medium by which you mix feeling or emotion with your thoughts and pass them on to your subconscious mind in order to put the broadcasting station of the brain into operation [9].
• It is a means of influencing the subconscious mind, which is the intermediary that translates prayers into terms that infinite intelligence can recognize [10].
• The principle of autosuggestion can be used to build character, because all men become what they are because of their dominating thoughts and desires, and self-suggestion is a powerful factor in building character [11].
• Potential pitfalls:
• The subconscious mind will translate negative or destructive thought impulses into their physical equivalents just as readily as positive or constructive ones [3, 7].
• Many people experience misfortune or bad luck due to negative beliefs that are picked up by the subconscious mind and translated into physical reality [3].
• Those who go down in defeat and end their lives in poverty do so because of negative application of the principle of autosuggestion [7].
• If you fail to plant desires in your subconscious mind, it will feed upon the thoughts that reach it as the result of your neglect [6].

In essence, the book positions autosuggestion as a powerful tool for shaping one’s reality by consciously influencing the subconscious mind with desired thoughts and emotions, using techniques such as repetition, visualization, and emotional engagement [1-5, 8]. It is critical to be aware that it can also work against you if negative thoughts and emotions are not kept out of your subconscious [1, 3, 6, 7, 12].

The Power of Definite Purpose

Definite purpose is a foundational concept in the sources, described as the starting point of all achievement and a crucial element in the process of thinking and growing rich [1-4]. It is the first step toward riches [2]. A definite purpose is characterized by a clear, specific goal or objective, combined with a burning desire and a plan to achieve it. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

• Clarity and Specificity: A definite purpose is not a vague wish or hope; it is a clearly defined objective [1, 2]. The sources emphasize the importance of knowing exactly what you want [5]. For example, when it comes to money, it is insufficient to merely say “I want plenty of money.” You must be precise about the amount you want [5].
• Burning Desire: A definite purpose is fueled by a burning desire, an all-consuming obsession that transcends everything else [1, 2]. This intense desire is the driving force that keeps one focused and persistent. It is a keen, pulsating desire that is more than a mere wish [2]. The story of Edwin C. Barnes is used to illustrate how a burning desire for a specific goal (becoming a business associate of Edison) led to success [1, 2].
• Action and Planning: A definite purpose is not just a mental exercise; it must be translated into action. This requires creating a definite plan and taking the necessary steps to execute that plan [5, 6]. The sources explain that one must plan definite ways and means to acquire riches and back those plans with persistence [5].
• Persistence: A definite purpose requires persistence, the sustained effort necessary to induce faith [4, 7]. Those who have a definite purpose are willing to stand by that purpose until it has time to become an obsession [1]. They do not give up at the first sign of opposition [7].
• Definiteness of Decision: The sources equate a definite purpose with the ability to make definite decisions. The story of the signing of the Declaration of Independence illustrates how a decision made in a spirit of faith can lead to great achievement [8]. Leaders in every walk of life decide quickly and firmly, which is why they are leaders [8].
• Mental State: A definite purpose requires a specific state of mind. It involves becoming so thoroughly saturated with the desire for something, such as money, that one can see oneself already in possession of it [5]. This “money consciousness” is essential for attracting riches [5].
• Contrast to Indecision: The sources contrast a definite purpose with the habit of indecision, which is described as a major weakness that leads to failure. Indecision is said to begin in youth and take on permanency through one’s education [7, 8].
• Overcoming Obstacles: A definite purpose is essential for overcoming obstacles and setbacks [1, 5]. When faced with difficulties, those with a definite purpose do not give up but rather intensify their desire and seek new plans [1, 6].
• Relationship to Other Principles: A definite purpose is the starting point for applying the other principles of success outlined in the sources. It provides the foundation for faith, persistence, planning, and the use of autosuggestion [1, 3, 4].
• Examples of Definite Purpose:
• Edwin C. Barnes had a definite purpose to become a business associate of Thomas Edison, which drove him to achieve his goal [1, 2].
• Dr. Frank W. Gonzalez had a definite purpose to organize a new college, which led to him obtaining a million dollars to carry out his plans [4].
• The Founding Fathers had a definite purpose to create an independent nation, which led them to sign the Declaration of Independence [8].

In summary, a definite purpose, as described in the sources, is a clearly defined goal combined with a burning desire, a concrete plan, and unwavering persistence. It’s a state of mind that propels individuals to overcome obstacles, make decisive choices, and achieve their desired outcomes. This principle is foundational to all the other principles discussed in the sources.

By Amjad Izhar
Contact: amjad.izhar@gmail.com
https://amjadizhar.blog

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