I just read James Allen’s classic book As a Man Thinketh. Before picking up a copy, I didn’t realize what a short and sweet little book it is. It is no larger than a 5 x 7 photograph and contains only 60 pages. Although the book is small in size, Allen expresses much powerful sentiment in a minimal number of words. As a Man Thinketh demonstrates an excellent example of the proverbial phrase less is more. Perhaps because it takes less of a time commitment to read a short book than a lengthy novel, more people will read Allen’s work.
Allen reflects upon the commanding influence one’s thoughts have on his or her character and circumstances in life. Your thoughts affect your health and level of serenity. Knowing your purpose, having a vision, and dreaming of what is ideal are 3 powerful techniques for creating and living a truly desirable and rewarding existence.
Several quotes resonated strongly with me as I read As a Man Thinketh. The first one is, “He who has conquered doubt and fear has conquered failure.” When you put forth effort and take action, you will learn, grow, and achieve results. The results may not be the results you had hoped for, but growth and learning are inevitable and valuable side effects.
Yesterday I was listening to an interview by Darren Hardy with Mark Sanborn on the companion cd to the October 2009 edition of Success magazine. Darren shared his simple, yet effective strategy of plan, do, and review. People who plan what they want to achieve are more likely to do what it takes to succeed. However, after the event or goal has been achieved, more value can be gained from the experience by reflecting upon what went well and how you could have done a better job. One of the quotes Mark shared which I absolutely love is, “Feedback is the breakfast of champions.” Sorry Wheaties, you have lost your title.
Two more quotes from As a Man Thinketh which spoke to me relate to having a vision and dreams. “Your vision is the promise of what you shall one day be.” If you don’t have a vision, then your promise consists of nothing. “Dreams are the seedlings of realities.” Your reality is created from what you invest your thoughts, and subsequently your time and energy, into.
“Do not be afraid
To dream and believe
Thoughts are the beginning
Of the things we achieve” (An excerpt from My Knowledge
A poem I wrote on 10-1-08)
The final James Allen quote I will share with you and my personal favorite is, “Thought allied fearlessly to purpose becomes creative force.” May the force be with you! 