As A Man Thinketh is a literary essay by James Allen that aims to convey the message of how powerful human thought can be. The author argues that the quality of our thoughts determines the quality of our life, and that we create our realities through the power of our own minds. The essay encourages readers to take control of their thoughts and to cultivate positive ones in order to manifest desired outcomes in their lives.
Allen believes that negative thoughts lead to negative consequences, and that our thoughts can either work for us or against us. He emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for one’s own thoughts and actions, and encourages readers to develop a positive attitude towards life. He argues that by doing so, we can tap into our inner strength and begin to achieve our goals and dreams.
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The essay is divided into several sections that cover topics such as the power of thought, the effects of thought on health and well-being, the importance of self-discipline, and the role of action in achieving success. Allen also discusses the impact of environmental factors on our thoughts, and how we can overcome negative influences in our surroundings.
Allen also emphasizes the importance of spiritual growth and self-improvement, and encourages readers to focus on their inner selves, rather than their external circumstances. The essay has become a popular and enduring source of inspiration and guidance for people seeking to improve their lives and achieve their goals.
Overall, As A Man Thinketh is a timeless work that offers timeless wisdom on the power of the human mind. It encourages readers to take responsibility for their own thoughts and actions, and to strive for positive change in their lives.
Main Takeaways from As A Man Thinketh
Here are some of the main takeaways from As A Man Thinketh:
- Thoughts shape our lives: Allen emphasizes that our thoughts are the foundation of our lives, and that the things we think about most often tend to become our reality.
- We have the power to choose our thoughts: Although external circumstances may influence our thoughts, we have the power to choose what we think about and focus on.
- We are responsible for our own lives: Allen argues that we cannot blame external circumstances or other people for our situation in life; rather, we are responsible for our own thoughts and actions.
- Positive thinking can transform our lives: Allen suggests that by focusing on positive thoughts and beliefs, we can transform our lives and achieve success and happiness.
- Spiritual growth is essential: Allen emphasizes the importance of spiritual growth and the cultivation of inner qualities such as compassion, patience, and kindness.
- The importance of action: While thoughts are important, Allen emphasizes that action is also necessary to achieve our goals and transform our lives.
Quotes from As A Man Thinketh
Here are some interesting highlights from the book, for more, check out my article entitled Best As A Man Thinketh Quotes :
“Every act of a man springs from the hidden seeds of thought,”
“Men imagine that thought can be kept secret, but it cannot; it rapidly crystallizes into habit, and habit solidifies into circumstance.”
“Self-control is strength. Right thought is mastery. Calmness is power. ”
“Doubt and fear are the great enemies of knowledge, and he who encourages them, who does not slay them, thwarts himself at every step. He who has conquered doubt”
“The more tranquil a man becomes, the greater is his success, his influence, his power for good.”
“All that man achieves and all that he fails to achieve is the direct result of his own thoughts. His suffering and happiness are evolved from within. As he thinks, so he is. As he continues to think, so he remains.”
“Thought is the fount of action, life, and manifestation; make the fountain pure, and all will be pure.”
“Cherish your visions; cherish your ideals; cherish the music that stirs in your heart, the beauty that forms in your mind, the loveliness that drapes your purest thoughts, for out of them will grow all delightful”
“The sole and supreme use of suffering is to purify, to burn out all that is useless and impure.”
“He who would accomplish little must sacrifice little; he who would achieve much must sacrifice much; he who would attain highly must sacrifice greatly.”
“The universe does not favour the greedy, the dishonest, the vicious, although on the mere surface it may sometimes appear to do so; it helps the honest, the magnanimous, the virtuous.”
“Thoughts of fear, doubt, and indecision crystallise into weak, unmanly, and irresolute habits, which solidify into circumstances of failure, indigence and slavish dependence.”
I hope you find As A Man Thinketh summary helpful and inspiring!