Think and Grow Rich - Hill, Napoleon  ## Metadata - Author: **Hill, Napoleon** - Full Title: Think and Grow Rich - Category: #books ## Highlights - To all these I wish to convey the thought that all achievement, no matter what may be its nature, or its purpose, must begin with an intense, BURNING DESIRE for something definite. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzsvh3msm6m9k98we5byts1x)) - RICHES begin in the form of THOUGHT! ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzsxdaagxbmmfjjan7eyvhxg)) - The amount is limited only by the person in whose mind the THOUGHT is put into motion. FAITH removes limitations! Remember this when you are ready to bargain with Life for whatever it is that you ask as your price for having passed this way. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzsxdfdy8sscx7peywp8f75y)) - Man may become the master of himself, and of his environment, because he has the POWER TO INFLUENCE HIS OWN SUBCONSCIOUS MIND, and through it, gain the cooperation of Infinite Intelligence. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzsxfefcqx37aw242fj4tfch)) - If you have the IMAGINATION, and seek a more profitable outlet for your personal services, this suggestion may be the stimulus for which you have been searching. The IDEA is capable of yielding an income far greater than that of the "average" doctor, lawyer, or engineer whose education required several years in college. The idea is saleable to those seeking new positions, in practically all positions calling for managerial or executive ability, and those desiring re-arrangement of incomes in their present positions. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzsxg2svq5cvnsfcywq54n21)) - Millions of people go through life hoping for favorable "breaks." Perhaps a favorable break can get one an opportunity, but the safest plan is not to depend upon luck. It was a favorable "break" that gave me the biggest opportunity of my life— but— twenty-five years of determined effort had to be devoted to that opportunity before it became an asset. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzsxkt8p75spf06fa8rgkdxd)) - SUCCESS REQUIRES NO EXPLANATIONS ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzsxgjajckmbwqv8b6c2hhvc)) - 1. UNFAVORABLE HEREDITARY BACKGROUND. There is but little, if anything, which can be done for people who are born with a deficiency in brain power. This philosophy offers but one method of bridging this weakness— through the aid of the Master Mind. Observe with profit, however, that this is the ONLY one of the thirty causes of failure which may not be easily corrected by any individual. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv5yj8v8v4a6manfepqjp00)) - 2. LACK OF A WELL-DEFINED PURPOSE IN LIFE. There is no hope of success for the person who does not have a central purpose, or definite goal at which to aim. Ninety-eight out of every hundred of those whom I have analyzed, had no such aim. Perhaps this was the ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv5yapy04dfd065v7t3zhcz)) - a. Overeating of foods not conducive to health b. Wrong habits of thought; giving expression to negatives. c. Wrong use of, and over indulgence in sex. d. Lack of proper physical exercise e. An inadequate supply of fresh air, due to improper breathing. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv5xg65nh5vjt5cqpd2bkeb)) - 9. LACK OF PERSISTENCE. Most of us are good "starters" but poor "finishers" of everything we begin. Moreover, people are prone to give up at the first signs of defeat. There is no substitute for PERSISTENCE. The person who makes PERSISTENCE his watch-word, discovers that "Old Man Failure" finally becomes tired, and makes his departure. Failure cannot cope with PERSISTENCE. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv5ywq0s3ap5bhbh078pky3)) - 10. NEGATIVE PERSONALITY. There is no hope of success for the person who repels people through a negative personality. Success comes through the application of POWER, and power is attained through the cooperative efforts of other people. A negative personality will not induce cooperation. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv5z7cvm0hvgp6xbgcmpdx5)) - 11. LACK OF CONTROLLED SEXUAL URGE. Sex energy is the most powerful of all the stimuli which move people into ACTION. Because it is the most powerful of the emotions, it must be controlled, through transmutation, and converted into other channels. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv5zde65nkvz8qhm23qk68m)) - 12. UNCONTROLLED DESIRE FOR "SOMETHING FOR NOTHING." The gambling instinct drives millions of people to failure. Evidence of this may be found in a study of the Wall Street crash of '29, during which millions of people tried to make money by gambling on stock margins. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv60n6989j17qrgrfea4dca)) - 13. LACK OF A WELL DEFINED POWER OF DECISION. Men who succeed reach decisions promptly, and change them, if at all, very slowly. Men who fail, reach decisions, if at all, very slowly, and change them frequently, and quickly. Indecision and procrastination are twin brothers. Where one is found, the other may usually be found also. Kill off this pair before they completely "hog-tie" you to the treadmill of FAILURE. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv61jvdv3nbbc46159gbw13)) - 15. WRONG SELECTION OF A MATE IN MARRIAGE. This a most common cause of failure. The relationship of marriage brings people intimately into contact. Unless this relationship is harmonious, failure is likely to follow. Moreover, it will be a form of failure that is marked by misery and unhappiness, destroying all signs of AMBITION. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv62am3j7b9x6vf6e0gjazs)) - 16. OVER-CAUTION. The person who takes no chances, generally has to take whatever is left when others are through choosing. Over-caution is as bad as under-caution. Both are extremes to be guarded against. Life itself is filled with the element of chance. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv63wpmfe122feca4qfbb9e)) - 17. WRONG SELECTION OF ASSOCIATES IN BUSINESS. This is one of the most common causes of failure in business. In marketing personal services, one should use great care to select an employer who will be an inspiration, and who is, himself, intelligent and successful. We emulate those with whom we associate most closely. Pick an employer who is worth emulating. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6415z6ydxkeg9f9jhfsyx)) - 20. LACK OF CONCENTRATION OF EFFORT. The "jack-of-all-trades" seldom is good at any. Concentrate all of your efforts on one DEFINITE CHIEF AIM. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv65gc4t76fbjt1fq27bse7)) - 21. THE HABIT OF INDISCRIMINATE SPENDING. The spend-thrift cannot succeed, mainly because he stands eternally in FEAR OF POVERTY. Form the habit of systematic saving by putting aside a definite percentage of your income. Money in the bank gives one a very safe foundation of COURAGE when bar-gaining for the sale of personal services. Without money, one must take what one is offered, and be glad to get it. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv65qdw1knc0p5b9t7he95r)) - 29. GUESSING INSTEAD OF THINKING. Most people are too indifferent or lazy to acquire FACTS with which to THINK ACCURATELY. They prefer to act on "opinions" created by guesswork or snap-judgments. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv69x9xbvbfymv2tf30m965)) - SELF-ANALYSIS QUESTIONNAIRE FOR PERSONAL INVENTORY ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6hv238jagxp36bj8szvpe)) - 1. Have I attained the goal which I established as my objective for this year? (You should work with a definite yearly objective to be attained as a part of your major life objective). ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6hpykjy22q55sr41ns81q)) - 2. Have I delivered service of the best possible QUALITY of which I was capable, or could I have improved any part of this service? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6hy9yqxtsbqvvzyd1hcr1)) - 3. Have I delivered service in the greatest possible QUANTITY of which I was capable? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6j0fnja61bcw0c4y769ks)) - 4. Has the spirit of my conduct been harmonious, and cooperative at all times? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6j648s35nhx4cf3mr62yw)) - 5. Have I permitted the habit of PROCRASTINATION to decrease my efficiency, and if so, to what extent? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6jb7e77s135awwywrn8fs)) - 6. Have I improved my PERSONALITY, and if so, in what ways? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6je2g509zpk9zwm67n6fq)) - 7. Have I been PERSISTENT in following my plans through to completion? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6jh0aazqw8snw6jd1gy4n)) - 8. Have I reached DECISIONS PROMPTLY AND DEFINITELY on all occasions? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6jkwm2xewzk84p886kp80)) - 9. Have I permitted any one or more of the six basic fears to decrease my efficiency? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6jvjdaz2kh2dha7rbn09n)) - 10. Have I been either "over-cautious," or "under-cautious?" ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6jyadmgkaym83h84cnr77)) - 11. Has my relationship with my associates in work been pleasant, or unpleasant? If it has been unpleasant, has the fault been partly, or wholly mine? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6k2h9rjbx8e6st7ywd1je)) - 12. Have I dissipated any of my energy through lack of CONCENTRATION of effort? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6k74jvj404j22pfrwgv2p)) - 13. Have I been open minded and tolerant in con-nection with all subjects? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6ka8hw5xcwemewe08h58n)) - 14. In what way have I improved my ability to render service? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6kerbgp2qdxgntt9nvac7)) - 15. Have I been intemperate in any of my habits? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6kk86rem089dxynq3r69z)) - 16. Have I expressed, either openly or secretly, any form of EGOTISM? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6kqh8q5ake89cq6a0y6r2)) - 17. Has my conduct toward my associates been such that it has induced them to RESPECT me? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6kxgyhgc32vg6v70swexx)) - 18. Have my opinions and DECISIONS been based upon guesswork, or accuracy of analysis and THOUGHT? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6mqhtmsewp2yfmprf00jb)) - 19. Have I followed the habit of budgeting my time, my expenses, and my income, and have I been conservative in these budgets? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6msxr0zmfe6ttykt6tecf)) - 20. How much time have I devoted to UNPROFITABLE effort which I might have used to better advantage? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6mxmby8gv7q0f02d0j32r)) - 21. How may I RE-BUDGET my time, and change my habits so I will be more efficient during the coming year? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6n0n7391f7vskd1hg51x9)) - 22. Have I been guilty of any conduct which was not approved by my conscience? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6n2yfs4vdy4zn0bwrc24e)) - 23. In what ways have I rendered MORE SERVICE AND BETTER SERVICE than I was paid to render? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6n5y0a3zm4d2tn3499yn4)) - 24. Have I been unfair to anyone, and if so, in what way? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6nffqe177dx42t443hztp)) - 25. If I had been the purchaser of my own services for the year, would I be satisfied with my purchase? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6njvey2qzc6xxysnrp0dd)) - 26. Am I in the right vocation, and if not, why not? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6nq6hcmjv8a7na9fb87xc)) - 27. Has the purchaser of my services been satisfied with the service I have rendered, and if not, why not? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6nyz5ne7pz7me37ra0bk2)) - 28. What is my present rating on the fundamental principles of success? (Make this rating fairly, and frankly, and have it checked by someone who is courageous enough to do it accurately). ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv6p79zfaqpnj49mnddtzke)) - CAPITAL consists not alone of money, but more particularly of highly organized, intelligent groups of men who plan ways and means of using money efficiently for the good of the public, and profitably to themselves. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzv7411h0wwx1xn9h20d80va)) - Analysis of several hundred people who had accumulated fortunes well beyond the million dollar mark, disclosed the fact that every one of them had the habit of REACHING DECISIONS PROMPTLY, and of changing these decisions SLOWLY, if, and when they were changed. People who fail to accumulate money, without exception, have the habit of reaching decisions, IF AT ALL, very slowly, and of changing these decisions quickly and often. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzsxqnf6456ba9xtz9gcz30g)) - The majority of people who fail to accumulate money sufficient for their needs, are, generally, easily influenced by the "opinions" of others. They permit the newspapers and the "gossiping" neighbors to do their "thinking" for them. "Opinions are the cheapest commodities on earth. Everyone has a flock of opinions ready to be wished upon anyone who will accept them. If you are influenced by "opinions" when you reach DECISIONS, you will not succeed in any undertaking, much less in that of transmuting YOUR OWN DESIRE into money. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzsxvs0qbqffwt5wabxm4s9v)) - If you are influenced by the opinions of others, you will have no DESIRE of your own. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzsxw1zap5jrx9tbnae8rss1)) - It is characteristic of people who have but a smattering or a veneer of knowledge to try to give the impression that they have much knowledge. Such people generally do TOO MUCH talking, and TOO LITTLE listening. Keep your eyes and ears wide open— and your mouth CLOSED, if you wish to acquire the habit of prompt DECISION. Those who talk too much do little else. If you talk more than you listen, you not only deprive yourself of many opportunities to accumulate useful knowledge, but you also disclose your PLANS and PURPOSES to people who will take great delight in defeating you, because they envy you. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzsxywdqva1ck2tfdq8hk408)) - In your search for the secret of the method, do not look for a miracle, because you will not find it. You will find only the eternal laws of Nature. These laws are available to every person who has the FAITH and the COURAGE to use them. They may be used to bring freedom to a nation, or to accumulate riches. There is no charge save the time necessary to understand and appropriate them. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzt4116qer1csdrsmpx73c88)) - Those who reach DECISIONS promptly and definitely, know what they want, and generally get it. The leaders in every walk of life DECIDE quickly, and firmly. That is the major reason why they are leaders. The world has the habit of making room for the man whose words and actions show that he knows where he is going. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzt43z2251byjs6b0f4hvprd)) - INDECISION is a habit which usually begins in youth. The habit takes on permanency as the youth goes through graded school, high school, and even through college, without DEFINITENESS OF PURPOSE. The major weakness of all educational systems is that they neither teach nor encourage the habit of DEFINITE DECISION. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzt473t2zpqbdr7x4sq7jj0f)) - If you are following this book with the intention of applying the knowledge it conveys, your first test as to your PERSISTENCE will come when you begin to follow the six steps described in the second chapter. Unless you are one of the two out of every hundred who already have a DEFINITE GOAL at which you are aiming, and a DEFINITE PLAN for its attainment, you may read the instructions, and then pass on with your daily routine, and never comply with those instructions. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzt4tczp7ta29aar7sk23tt2)) - DEFINITENESS OF DECISION always requires courage, sometimes very great courage. The fifty-six men who signed the Declaration of Independence staked their lives on the DECISION to affix their signatures to that document. The person who reaches a DEFINITE DECISION to procure the particular job, and make life pay the price he asks, does not stake his life on that decision; he stakes his ECONOMIC FREEDOM. Financial independence, riches, desirable business and professional positions are not within reach of the person who neglects or refuses to EXPECT, PLAN, and DEMAND these things. The person who desires riches in the same spirit that Samuel Adams desired freedom for the Colonies, is sure to accumulate wealth. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzt0m1nxx6njk0qdqq1ec5g1)) - POVERTY is attracted to the one whose mind is favorable to it, as money is attracted to him whose mind has been deliberately prepared to attract it, and through the same laws. POVERTY CONSCIOUSNESS WILL VOLUNTARILY SEIZE THE MIND WHICH IS NOT OCCUPIED WITH THE MONEY CONSCIOUSNESS. A poverty consciousness develops without conscious application of habits favorable to it. The money consciousness must be created to order, unless one is born with such a consciousness. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzt6fdnpa32fst79xc0212wf)) - 1. Failure to recognize and to clearly define exactly what one wants. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzvr36tnme5pxm0gqe1b2h0h)) - 2. Procrastination, with or without cause. (Usually backed up with a formidable array of alibis and excuses). ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzvr3bagsq0teevnvvwtefh5)) - 3. Lack of interest in acquiring specialized knowledge. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzvr3g25d2er1dyp9cjnkcay)) - 4. Indecision, the habit of "passing the buck" on all occasions, instead of facing issues squarely. (Also backed by alibis). ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzvr3nkk7axzepz052vzmn05)) - 5. The habit of relying upon alibis instead of creating definite plans for the solution of problems. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzvr3yjkmatp7te7h8sc1s1m)) - 6. Self-satisfaction. There is but little remedy for this affliction, and no hope for those who suffer from it. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzvr43c5v4fcqzc8a5qekz44)) - 7. Indifference, usually reflected in one's readiness to compromise on all occasions, rather than meet opposition and fight it. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzvr4a91917maamnxh6kpn25)) - 8. The habit of blaming others for one's mistakes, and accepting unfavorable circumstances as being unavoidable. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzvr4gykhn90x7ppqv2d672g)) - 9. WEAKNESS OF DESIRE, due to neglect in the choice of MOTIVES that impel action. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzvr4pfqvp7k9r5mvjdf67mg)) - 10. Willingness, even eagerness, to quit at the first sign of defeat. (Based upon one or more of the 6 basic fears). ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzvr4wx8rjn2d5rqksnc6tm8)) - 11. Lack of ORGANIZED PLANS, placed in writing where they may be analyzed. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzvr53965e830k9gwhhrkfrb)) - 12. The habit of neglecting to move on ideas, or to grasp opportunity when it presents itself. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzvr55p02xx9eqceq513sknj)) - 13. WISHING instead of WILLING. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzvr598x2szyfppy12mtysb6)) - 14. The habit of compromising with POVERTY instead of aiming at riches. General absence of ambition to be , to do , and to own. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzvr5cfhzf39g4q0ev5612w5)) - 15. Searching for all the shortcuts to riches, trying to GET without GIVING a fair equivalent, usually reflected in the habit of gambling, endeavoring to drive "sharp" bargains. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzvr5kg2j2xfqmyz7m5r9dsz)) - 16. FEAR OF CRITICISM, failure to create plans and to put them into action, because of what other people will think, do, or say. This enemy belongs at the head of the list, because it generally exists in one's subconscious mind, where its presence is not recognized. (See the Six Basic Fears in a later chapter). ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzvr5twk7xs8gqj268rv5q0y)) - Too many people refuse to set high goals for themselves, or even neglect selecting a career, because they fear the criticism of relatives and "friends" who may say "Don't aim so high, people will think you are crazy. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzvr7j3bxeg4t4jfwx5w0yy8)) - ANYBODY can WISH for riches, and most people do, but only a few know that a definite plan, plus a BURNING DESIRE for wealth, are the only dependable means of accumulating wealth. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzt0nxskvcgfb7xar85y4bnn)) - Some men know that they are being influenced by the women of their choice— their wives, sweethearts, mothers or sisters— but they tactfully refrain from rebelling against the influence because they are intelligent enough to know that NO MAN IS HAPPY OR COMPLETE WITHOUT THE MODIFYING INFLUENCE OF THE RIGHT WOMAN. The man who does not recognize this important truth deprives himself of the power which has done more to help men achieve success than all other forces combined. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzt0pd69m53g06hrc97kna08)) - Long before I had ever written a line for publication, or endeavored to deliver a speech in public, I followed the habit of reshaping my own character, by trying to imitate the nine men whose lives and life-works had been most impressive to me. These nine men were, Emerson, Paine, Edison, Darwin, Lincoln, Burbank, Napoleon, Ford, and Carnegie. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzy1h78g55s4zfha13wa4kwt)) - The fear of POVERTY}...............at the bottom of ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzy2qvtgnt0c91d034b3e413)) - The fear of CRITICISM}...............most of one's ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzy2qrgtztcc78jpa319btnj)) - The fear of ILL HEALTH}.............worries ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzy2qm1x1hhsvmmh1dj9hd74)) - The fear of LOSS OF LOVE OF SOMEONE ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzy2qfn488gf3ab515nkjwxd)) - The fear of OLD AGE ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzy2qcmwz1rbqgne7tzagna9)) - The fear of DEATH ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzy2qaafp7jh4j6ee5xvsvz1)) - SELF-CONSCIOUSNESS. Generally expressed through nervousness, timidity in conversation and in meeting strangers, awkward movement of the hands and limbs, shifting of the eyes. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzz4mnj8s6t1wj1yrek3r5cv)) - LACK OF POISE. Expressed through lack of voice control, nervousness in the presence of others, poor posture of body, poor memory. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzz4pcdbnp4nm9r6j2e0h4xw)) - PERSONALITY. Lacking in firmness of decision, personal charm, and ability to express opinions definitely. The habit of side-stepping issues instead of meeting them squarely. Agreeing with others without careful examination of their opinions. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzz55wt4b3yyjr2pwdp8705m)) - INFERIORITY COMPLEX. The habit of expressing self-approval by word of mouth and by actions, as a means of covering up a feeling of inferiority. Using "big words" to impress others, (often without knowing the real meaning of the words). Imitating others in dress, speech and manners. Boasting of imaginary achievements. This sometimes gives a surface appearance of a feeling of superiority. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzz56tzt6sy5w3v49rzkthz5)) - EXTRAVAGANCE. The habit of trying to "keep up with the Joneses," spending beyond one's income. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzz5taxy7bq69zqkera36tn8)) - Tags: #wealth - LACK OF INITIATIVE. Failure to embrace opportunities for self-advancement, fear to express opinions, lack of confidence in one's own ideas, giving evasive answers to questions asked by superiors, hesitancy of manner and speech, deceit in both words and deeds. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzz5wjvv31ytp312pa97avz7)) - LACK OF AMBITION. Mental and physical laziness, lack of self-assertion, slowness in reaching decisions, easily influenced by others, the habit of criticising others behind their backs and flattering them to their faces, the habit of accepting defeat without protest, quitting an undertaking when opposed by others, suspicious of other people without cause, lacking in tactfulness of manner and speech, unwillingness to accept the blame for mistakes. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzz5yd8j141n12bmf221gy7p)) - HYPOCHONDRIA. The habit of talking of illness, concentrating the mind upon disease, and expecting its appearance until a nervous break occurs. Nothing that comes in bottles can cure this condition. It is brought on by negative thinking and nothing but positive thought can affect a cure. Hypochondria, (a medical term for imaginary disease) is said to do as much damage on occasion, as the disease one fears might do. Most so-called cases of "nerves" come from imaginary illness. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzz6gzb6rfvy8ffsp1fft8cy)) - EXERCISE. Fear of ill health often interferes with proper physical exercise, and results in over-weight, by causing one to avoid outdoor life. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzz6h9n94wn8r8jqh6tz9f1v)) - SUSCEPTIBILITY. Fear of ill health breaks down Nature's body resistance, and creates a favorable condition for any form of disease one may contact. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzz6heh5868f0mcr7r2hsbbk)) - SELF-CODDLING. The habit of making a bid for sympathy, using imaginary illness as the lure. (People often resort to this trick to avoid work). The habit of feigning illness to cover plain laziness, or to serve as an alibi for lack of ambition. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzz6jj48y68fn9jxv7n2h8jp)) - INTEMPERANCE. The habit of using alcohol or narcotics to destroy pains such as headaches, neuralgia, etc., instead of eliminating the cause. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01hzz6jttfw571w0r5qtrazmre)) - Jealousy, and other similar forms of dementia praecox grow out of man's inherited fear of the loss of love of someone. This fear is the most painful of all the six basic fears. It probably plays more havoc with the body and mind than any of the other basic fears, as it often leads to permanent insanity. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j0087thg427vsnd921vgfhfr)) - The fear of the loss of love probably dates back to the stone age, when men stole women by brute force. They continue to steal females, but their technique has changed. Instead of force, they now use persuasion, the promise of pretty clothes, motor cars, and other "bait" much more effective than physical force. Man's habits are the same as they were at the dawn of civilization, but he expresses them differently. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j0088cjdw9ms8g214tymg8at)) - Careful analysis has shown that women are more susceptible to this fear than men. This fact is easily explained. Women have learned, from experience, that men are polygamous by nature, that they are not to be trusted in the hands of rivals. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j0088xdvaw7yx07gr109hd9j)) - JEALOUSY. The habit of being suspicious of friends and loved ones without any reasonable evidence of sufficient grounds. (Jealousy is a form of dementia praecox which sometimes becomes violent without the slightest cause). The habit of accusing wife or husband of infidelity without grounds. General suspicion of everyone, absolute faith in no one. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j008hg9ctxrb4e7bm5cbmhzk)) - Tags: #relationships #jealousy - FAULT FINDING. The habit of finding fault with friends, relatives, business associates and loved ones upon the slightest provocation, or without any cause whatsoever. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j008hrdzjcxv2eyfz13vam01)) - GAMBLING. The habit of gambling, stealing, cheating, and otherwise taking hazardous chances to provide money for loved ones, with the belief that love can be bought. The habit of spending beyond one's means, or incurring debts, to provide gifts for loved ones, with the object of making a favorable showing. Insomnia, nervousness, lack of persistence, weakness of will, lack of self-control, lack of self-reliance, bad temper. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j008j7je9062ztt2h9v1t04b)) - You may control your own mind, you have the power to feed it whatever thought impulses you choose. With this privilege goes also the responsibility of using it constructively. You are the master of your own earthly destiny just as surely as you have the power to control your own thoughts. You may influence, direct, and eventually control your own environment, making your life what you want it to be— or, you may neglect to exercise the privilege which is yours, to make your life to order, thus casting yourself upon the broad sea of "Circumstance" where you will be tossed hither and yon, like a chip on the waves of the ocean. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j009hdgpr2j2z6hk3jd66417)) - To protect yourself against negative influences, whether of your own making, or the result of the activities of negative people around you, recognize that you have a WILL-POWER, and put it into constant use, until it builds a wall of immunity against negative influences in your own mind. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j009njr6bfq43eq2kbgvc7gy)) - Do you complain often of "feeling bad," and if so, what is the cause? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00v7d0cg66qxdngx6vgk60k)) - Do you find fault with other people at the slightest provocation? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00v7f5m83xgmgemggfqc8e3)) - Do you frequently make mistakes in your work, and if so, why? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00v7h8pvc4ryvywd44hawpn)) - Are you sarcastic and offensive in your conversation? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00v7mergs0x8m7xgk8th044)) - Do you deliberately avoid the association of anyone, and if so, why? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00v7pc8h5ea4s8xayasbg6y)) - Do you suffer frequently with indigestion? If so, what is the cause? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00v7s49crgd00qgyghwvz4j)) - Does life seem futile and the future hopeless to you? If so, why? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00v7xty45fqcje432t4c93v)) - Do you like your occupation? If not, why? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00v7zwmxdetx53yqd09mhj3)) - Do you often feel self-pity, and if so why? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00v82t9hehgehzqaxjzww3r)) - Are you envious of those who excel you? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00v858733mkavcsyebfykgh)) - To which do you devote most time, thinking of SUCCESS, or of FAILURE? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00v88d8hevmk7hr4asbzhmp)) - Are you gaining or losing self-confidence as you grow older? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00v8nhxhma1qvhbrb9vb5rr)) - Do you learn something of value from all mistakes? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00v8qqefjssepae6x1qe485)) - Are you permitting some relative or acquaintance to worry you? If so, why? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00v8ttf4s475jh6p2ka0gxn)) - Are you sometimes "in the clouds" and at other times in the depths of despondency? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00v9btkwzjmq8ykxw8hqs1e)) - Who has the most inspiring influence upon you? What is the cause? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00v9en89qx1pg13z7d9wj89)) - Do you tolerate negative or discouraging influences which you can avoid? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00va1j072ezbk8sh6q84hrc)) - Are you careless of your personal appearance? If so, when and why? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00va45gcyed9j6t4mk3kwh8)) - Have you learned how to "drown your troubles" by being too busy to be annoyed by them? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00va6ye9jk011mf6vwsn7g6)) - Would you call yourself a "spineless weakling" if you permitted others to do your thinking for you? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vb6hqg5wrcdxkdrp3ewgs)) - Do you neglect internal bathing until auto-intoxication makes you ill-tempered and irritable? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vb94t70awp2r8rtp4rxnv)) - How many preventable disturbances annoy you, and why do you tolerate them? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vbnqcrfrft0nt1e0z45fc)) - Do you resort to liquor, narcotics, or cigarettes to "quiet your nerves"? If so, why do you not try will-power instead? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vc169nvmej3z5hg36xzxt)) - Does anyone "nag" you, and if so, for what reason? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vc41zcevzyw9sqhjy9r0r)) - Do you have a DEFINITE MAJOR PURPOSE, and if so, what is it, and what plan have you for achieving it? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vcamc3j3dqve0rf9h9zrj)) - Do you suffer from any of the Six Basic Fears? If so, which ones? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vcznjzhpqcxe7yr8eqjk5)) - Have you a method by which you can shield yourself against the negative influence of others? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vd1w66spvsnyv5szg7t9r)) - Do you make deliberate use of auto-suggestion to make your mind positive? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vd4fbvwmr95jg83a8972z)) - Which do you value most, your material possessions, or your privilege of controlling your own thoughts? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vd6aej9jj6mtb314mbmt7)) - Are you easily influenced by others, against your own judgment? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vd8h40s66gx9rtnnd9smw)) - Has today added anything of value to your stock of knowledge or state of mind? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vdaap5ypf547cezfc9bgm)) - Do you face squarely the circumstances which make you unhappy, or sidestep the responsibility? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vdcvyc74xy0k4n6e1v6ss)) - Do you analyze all mistakes and failures and try to profit by them or, do you take the attitude that this is not your duty? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vdvy45myr9p7d4xctbj2k)) - Can you name three of your most damaging weaknesses? What are you doing to correct them? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vea6f9w7vdqds6yzb2jjn)) - Do you encourage other people to bring their worries to you for sympathy? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vecaey5ksq74842e6jxkt)) - Do you choose, from your daily experiences, lessons or influences which aid in your personal advancement? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00ves9961dtw5c52h276vqj)) - Does your presence have a negative influence on other people as a rule? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vev7vea80h002jvv3ksg7)) - What habits of other people annoy you most? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vewx878an6cqppy64z24h)) - Do you form your own opinions or permit yourself to be influenced by other people? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vezf6xr228tg6nnfyw8h4)) - Have you learned how to create a mental state of mind with which you can shield yourself against all discouraging influences? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vf1gjw961fd0xe4n4e9hm)) - Tags: #personal development - Does your occupation inspire you with faith and hope? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vf44e7vex877pz7634kfz)) - Are you conscious of possessing spiritual forces of sufficient power to enable you to keep your mind free from all forms of FEAR? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vfaejfarncbkae89g1gh1)) - Does your religion help you to keep your own mind positive? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vfc7pyp54n7nrcb82jqg0)) - Do you feel it your duty to share other people's worries? If so, why? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vfeq7hrehdjfxvseza5pb)) - If you believe that "birds of a feather flock together" what have you learned about yourself by studying the friends whom you attract? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vfgs3wer6h2z6f2bf6bds)) - What connection, if any, do you see between the people with whom you associate most closely, and any unhappiness you may experience? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vfk9faf6dpjkr6jmqht1q)) - Could it be possible that some person whom you consider to be a friend is, in reality, your worst enemy, because of his negative influence on your mind? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vfp1wgq8a9nfa26nyw5z2)) - By what rules do you judge who is helpful and who is damaging to you? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vfrmey12ebyhf2rfr1bjq)) - Are your intimate associates mentally superior or inferior to you? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vftknxz1vcx0863bhmfc5)) - How much time out of every 24 hours do you devote to: a. your occupation b. sleep c. play and relaxation d. acquiring useful knowledge e. plain waste Who among your acquaintances, a. encourages you most b. cautions you most c. discourages you most d. helps you most in other ways ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vgpdnyw7ynb2yz3c2cggz)) - What is your greatest worry? Why do you tolerate it? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vgv7m1b4xg1g6r6tde2m7)) - When others offer you free, unsolicited advice, do you accept it without question, or analyze their motive? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vh936sbv0nm7vynh6yp40)) - What, above all else, do you most DESIRE? Do you intend to acquire it? Are you willing to subordinate all other desires for this one? How much time daily do you devote to acquiring it? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vhf2zkpn73q94k8x9kam1)) - Do you change your mind often? If so, why? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vhjmvm3c9rd7pv5rs6h6x)) - Do you usually finish everything you begin? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vhnr3m7ygp8zzkg135yvk)) - Are you easily impressed by other people's business or professional titles, college degrees, or wealth? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vhrv4r9pp8j6d1abk39mz)) - Are you easily influenced by what other people think or say of you? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vj5m6ehqtyx1zkb6cszxk)) - Do you cater to people because of their social or financial status? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vj90n2zr1skyegng575f0)) - Whom do you believe to be the greatest person living? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vjkc9n6e5k3bd3bm2qj0w)) - In what respect is this person superior to yourself? ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vjpnc8jr8mmkjzyht0h24)) - How much time have you devoted to studying and answering these questions? (At least one day is necessary for the analysis and the answering of the entire list.) ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j00vjsgzcvbmr6pm9qd1ymbg)) - Ford never had a chance, either, but he CREATED AN OPPORTUNITY AND BACKED IT WITH PERSISTENCE UNTIL IT MADE HIM RICHER THAN CROESUS. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01syx8vq923tje83e2yvn0c)) - You either control your mind or it controls you. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01szz4pryc645r2yj2m4xn0)) - The most practical of all methods for controlling the mind is the habit of keeping it busy with a definite purpose, backed by a definite plan. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x022y1sbkjpwadm6syej9)) - People who do not succeed have one distinguishing trait in common. They know all the reasons for failure, and have what they believe to be air-tight alibis to explain away their own lack of achievement. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x1p53w49a77skp2ysndmr)) - IF I didn't have a wife and family... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x3ygce75ha1wt4b4mfr17)) - IF I had enough "pull"... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x42k7bkfrm6hph3q4hhdp)) - IF I had money... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x461avqw29pa7yexda6hw)) - IF I had a good education... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x4b4v4254a4cckk6nzzbc)) - IF I could get a job... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x4e9a26s14t1cverh481f)) - IF I had good health... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x4je495nqhav84fkvfak4)) - IF I only had time... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x4p5y3qkezry82x67qt3r)) - IF times were better... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x4s5emfg0gpv83yacacmj)) - IF other people understood me... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x4xhyrh09drrc6y5cp7bk)) - IF conditions around me were only different... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x50f7pd4rmb3160snm03b)) - IF I could live my life over again... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x56rhyn0wbgs274a7b28z)) - IF I did not fear what "THEY" would say... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x5wsh61ra1m80d6c03pj0)) - IF I had been given a chance... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x6e1zm6a0d2asrhc4tzz9)) - IF I now had a chance... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x6m314hq2jkp1gcbsk0mv)) - IF other people didn't "have it in for me"... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x6xfrzgp2345b7ypnt02s)) - IF nothing happens to stop me... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x7502bca8majafbv16ssz)) - IF I were only younger... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x7am25e15k7hfhvqr1cms)) - IF I could only do what I want... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x7g9yet666fy9mnakgz9k)) - IF I had been born rich... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x7nwcde9ge3ch5q7p2vgz)) - IF I could meet "the right people"... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x7tf2xbpjg220xzvq5cqz)) - IF I had the talent that some people have... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x7xyspxj7a1byffacs2gw)) - IF I only had embraced past opportunities... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x868rxje0570nzd2ygvac)) - IF people didn't get on my nerves... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x8dhbk48cmwq5sjtvk2vg)) - IF I didn't have to keep house and look after the children... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x8hvd7krwsa2swevyks3x)) - IF I could save some money... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x8v0bv011hn3h0fpjrxak)) - IF the boss only appreciated me... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x8z0swvgamxv2hjbceqv9)) - IF I only had somebody to help me... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x95en892z7h726fpqe7z3)) - IF I lived in a big city... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x9d89n82vt87eek1mfy7y)) - IF I could just get started... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x9g9cs9ahg3tnvdbexrqd)) - IF I were only free... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x9qf8red3ryjphhqzbmm3)) - IF I had the personality of some people... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01x9ztf9qfqc1gt48y3sh44)) - IF I were not so fat... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01xa5r8ag83w2srvjqpas1h)) - IF my talents were known... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01xac4xqakx8sbdkah9r6y6)) - IF I could just get a "break"... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01xagpmqtqhfg2cqz7sg612)) - IF I could only get out of debt... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01xajkvcxcpa16f7y9w1gfn)) - IF I hadn't failed... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01xanfba67xy8tg2tx0pdgr)) - IF I only knew how... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01xat50vbt2mtr19d3f0yss)) - IF everybody didn't oppose me... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01xb0wawepbv2yqty3p50x9)) - IF I didn't have so many worries... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01xb7dckat2tyj8yge78r0q)) - IF I could marry the right person... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01xbdjs09sqnz8wrv227ewg)) - IF people weren't so dumb... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01xbn9zeznwf6xt4cdfgrp2)) - IF my family were not so extravagant... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01xbvbw2m8xpbnjzrz05ge8)) - IF I were sure of myself... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01xc8rhr7w65vgsbt1zhjve)) - IF luck were not against me... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01xcc2ycpjkk0qsfqtb273n)) - IF I had not been born under the wrong star... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01xf02dc28ymcvq8dxg2eyd)) - IF it were not true that "what is to be will be"... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01xf3t8w4ktg6rpzk76hste)) - IF I did not have to work so hard... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01xfde4twa23wvfjj84zqpz)) - IF I hadn't lost my money... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01xfg5hkk6gn9sqms3nmbfr)) - IF I lived in a different neighborhood... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01xfmswjypjmfdagss9gd74)) - IF I didn't have a "past"... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01xfqqjhmjxgm5znggr9bjp)) - IF I only had a business of my own... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01xg00a2tkvdte4t5cb6e40)) - IF other people would only listen to me... ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01xg3x2bxzc2bywx0nf4tnz)) - IF * * * and this is the greatest of them all * * * 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 them. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01j01xhaj787qvv2r9pxyq0gcq)) ## New highlights added March 22, 2025 at 11:13 AM - He presented himself at Mr. Edison's laboratory, and announced he had come to go into business with the inventor. In speaking of the first meeting between Barnes and Edison, years later, Mr. Edison said, "He stood there before me, looking like an ordinary tramp, but there was something in the expression of his face which conveyed the impression that he was determined to get what he had come after. I had learned, from years of experience with men, that when a man really DESIRES a thing so deeply that he is willing to stake his entire future on a single turn of the wheel in order to get it, he is sure to win. I gave him the opportunity he asked for, because I saw he had made up his mind to stand by until he succeeded. Subsequent events proved that no mistake was made." ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01jpp4cc1zyx0agp27crs0very)) - One of the most common causes of failure is the habit of quitting when one is overtaken by temporary defeat. Every person is guilty of this mistake at one time or another. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01jpp4pnj60j83zceddfxsmnvg)) - More than five hundred of the most successful men this country has ever known, told the author their greatest success came just one step beyond the point at which defeat had overtaken them. Failure is a trickster with a keen sense of irony and cunning. It takes great delight in tripping one when success is almost within reach. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01jpp4y2v07s3p4yqznwmt2rg7)) - One of the main weaknesses of mankind is the average man's familiarity with the word "impossible." He knows all the rules which will NOT work. He knows all the things which CANNOT be done. This book was written for those who seek the rules which have made others successful, and are willing to stake everything on those rules. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01jpp5j0s4egpg1qc7xt9gysw1)) - A few years back, Ford decided to produce his now famous V-8 motor. He chose to build an engine with the entire eight cylinders cast in one block, and instructed his engineers to produce a design for the engine. The design was placed on paper, but the engineers agreed, to a man, that it was simply impossible to cast an eight-cylinder gas engine block in one piece. Ford said, "Produce it anyway." "But," they replied, "it's impossible!" "Go ahead," Ford commanded, "and stay on the job until you succeed no matter how much time is required." The engineers went ahead. There was nothing else for them to do, if they were to remain on the Ford staff. Six months went by, nothing happened. Another six months passed, and still nothing happened. The engineers tried every conceivable plan to carry out the orders, but the thing seemed out of the question; "impossible!" At the end of the year Ford checked with his engineers, and again they informed him they had found no way to carry out his orders. "Go right ahead," said Ford, "I want it, and I'll have it." They went ahead, and then, as if by a stroke of magic, the secret was discovered. The Ford DETERMINATION had won once more! ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01jpp5rm5m5tp9n987xha6hgsc)) - He should have told us, that before we can accumulate riches in great abundance, we must magnetize our minds with intense DESIRE for riches, that we must become "money conscious until the DESIRE for money drives us to create definite plans for acquiring it. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01jpp5y6r0ekmcxwxbspvet6cb)) - Barnes succeeded because he chose a definite goal, placed all his energy, all his will power, all his effort, everything back of that goal. He did not become the partner of Edison the day he arrived. He was content to start in the most menial work, as long as it provided an opportunity to take even one step toward his cherished goal. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01jpz3k4p6e8rzjcyr4m31c6td)) - When he went to Orange, he did not say to himself, "I will try to induce Edison to give me a job of some soft." He said, "I will see Edison, and put him on notice that I have come to go into business with him. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01jpz3njpgrhfps0fcjhcn48en)) - Every human being who reaches the age of understanding of the purpose of money, wishes for it. Wishing will not bring riches. But desiring riches with a state of mind that becomes an obsession, then planning definite ways and means to acquire riches, and backing those plans with persistence which does not recognize failure, will bring riches. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01jpz3x9f3n1q0abbdd6pqaat2)) - First. Fix in your mind the exact amount of money you desire. It is not sufficient merely to say "I want plenty of money." Be definite as to the amount. (There is a psychological reason for definiteness which will be described in a subsequent chapter). ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01jpz3y94kc1m970yr7392zygk)) - Second. Determine exactly what you intend to give in return for the money you desire. (There is no such reality as "something for nothing.) ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01jpz3ymqyyw1akddjjzcja1m2)) - Third. Establish a definite date when you intend to possess the money you desire. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01jpz3yrmx26kv8x5y24cbbn9e)) - Fourth. Create a definite plan for carrying out your desire, and begin at once, whether you are ready or not, to put this plan into action. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01jpz3z0d8n5bvanskkc72tw94)) - Fifth. Write out a clear, concise statement of the amount of money you intend to acquire, name the time limit for its acquisition, state what you intend to give in return for the money, and describe clearly the plan through which you intend to accumulate it. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01jpz3zdn8c4xbjwehp4c6kd75)) - Sixth. Read your written statement aloud, twice daily, once just before retiring at night, and once after arising in the morning. AS YOU READ— SEE AND FEEL AND BELIEVE YOURSELF ALREADY IN POSSESSION OF THE MONEY. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01jpz40afjzqfgm68jfz13a1a5)) - If you do not see great riches in your imagination, you will never see them in your bank balance. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01jpz4ehh46ka8sw33w0j40zeb)) - Thomas Edison dreamed of a lamp that could be operated by electricity, began where he stood to put his dream into action, and despite more than ten thousand failures, he stood by that dream until he made it a physical reality. Practical dreamers DO NOT QUIT! ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01jpz4vb89fy7kjjd06he5qjwz)) ## New highlights added March 24, 2025 at 7:27 AM - Early in her career, Mme. Schuman-Heink visited the director of the Vienna Court Opera, to have him test her voice. But, he did not test it. After taking one look at the awkward and poorly dressed girl, he exclaimed, none too gently, "With such a face, and with no personality at all, how can you ever expect to succeed in opera? My good child, give up the idea. Buy a sewing machine, and go to work. YOU CAN NEVER BE A SINGER." Never is a long time! The director of the Vienna Court Opera knew much about the technique of singing. He knew little about the power of desire, when it assumes the proportion of an obsession. If he had known more of that power, he would not have made the mistake of condemning genius without giving it an opportunity. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01jq4710wbbav2sam59y1jhh14)) - Every man is what he is, because of the DOMINATING THOUGHTS which he permits to occupy his mind. Thoughts which a man deliberately places in his own mind, and encourages with sympathy, and with which he mixes any one or more of the emotions, constitute the motivating forces, which direct and control his every movement, act, and deed! ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01jq47q8cxrv22ntypde8q9zj7)) - Now, let us go back to the starting point, and become informed as to how the original seed of an idea, plan, or purpose may be planted in the mind. The information is easily conveyed: any idea, plan, or purpose may be placed in the mind through repetition of thought. This is why you are asked to write out a statement of your major purpose, or Definite Chief Aim, commit it to memory, and repeat it, in audible words, day after day, until these vibrations of sound have reached your subconscious mind. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01jq47vk2vrwfk73fpvf8t4hww)) - Resolve to throw off the influences of any unfortunate environment, and to build your own life to ORDER. Taking inventory of mental assets and liabilities, you will discover that your greatest weakness is lack of self-confidence. This handicap can be surmounted, and timidity translated into courage, through the aid of the principle of autosuggestion. The application of this principle may be made through a simple arrangement of positive thought impulses stated in writing, memorized, and repeated, until they become a part of the working equipment of the subconscious faculty of your mind. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01jq47vr9jrh5z1zts90mb0tr4)) - SELF-CONFIDENCE FORMULA First. I know that I have the ability to achieve the object of my Definite Purpose in life, therefore, I DEMAND of myself persistent, continuous action toward its attainment, and I here and now promise to render such action. Second. I realize the dominating thoughts of my mind will eventually reproduce themselves in outward, physical action, and gradually transform themselves into physical reality, therefore, I will concentrate my thoughts for thirty minutes daily, upon the task of thinking of the person I intend to become, thereby creating in my mind a clear mental picture of that person. Third. I know through the principle of auto-suggestion, any desire that I persistently hold in my mind will eventually seek expression through some practical means of attaining the object back of it, therefore, I will devote ten minutes daily to demanding of myself the development of SELF-CONFIDENCE. Fourth. I have clearly written down a description of my DEFINITE CHIEF AIM in life, and I will never stop trying, until I shall have developed sufficient self-confidence for its attainment. Fifth. I fully realize that no wealth or position can long endure, unless built upon truth and justice, therefore, I will engage in no transaction which does not benefit all whom it affects. I will succeed by attracting to myself the forces I wish to use, and the cooperation of other people. I will induce others to serve me, because of my willingness to serve others. I will eliminate hatred, envy, jealousy, selfishness, and cynicism, by developing love for all humanity, because I know that a negative attitude toward others can never bring me success. I will cause others to believe in me, because I will believe in them, and in myself. I will sign my name to this formula, commit it to memory, and repeat it aloud once a day, with full FAITH that it will gradually influence my THOUGHTS and ACTIONS so that I will become a self-reliant, and successful person. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01jq47x9p0q3b73kc41jh9mxy8)) ## New highlights added March 26, 2025 at 6:17 AM - Any man is educated who knows where to get knowledge when he needs it, and how to organize that knowledge into definite plans of action. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01jq9725549cf080m2ckzjqmxp)) - My belief in the theory that business associations are vital factors, both in failure and in success, was recently demonstrated, when my son Blair was negotiating with Dan Halpin for a position. Mr. Halpin offered him a beginning salary of about one half what he could have gotten from a rival company. I brought parental pressure to bear, and induced him to accept the place with Mr. Halpin, because I BELIEVE THAT CLOSE ASSOCIATION WITH ONE WHO REFUSES TO COMPROMISE WITH CIRCUMSTANCES HE DOES NOT LIKE, IS AN ASSET THAT CAN NEVER BE MEASURED IN TERMS OF MONEY. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01jq98besgqz80gr2xsmwz21p1)) ## New highlights added April 5, 2025 at 7:08 PM - When the emotion of romance is added to those of love and sex, the obstructions between the finite mind of man and Infinite Intelligence are removed. ([View Highlight](https://read.readwise.io/read/01jr4bdjkymgtncwfgxwep2fcb))