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As You Think

As You Think

Second Edition
by James Allen 2010 59 pages
4.11
1k+ ratings
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Key Takeaways

1. Your thoughts shape your reality

Mind is the master power that molds and makes, And we are Mind, and evermore we take The tool of thought, and shaping what we will, Bring forth a thousand joys, a thousand ills.

Thought creates character. Your thoughts are the architects of your life, shaping your character, circumstances, and destiny. Every action springs from the hidden seeds of thought, and habitual thinking patterns manifest in your external reality. This process is governed by immutable laws, much like those in the physical world.

Cultivate beneficial thoughts. To create a positive reality:

  • Focus on constructive, uplifting thoughts
  • Practice self-awareness and monitor your thinking patterns
  • Replace negative thoughts with positive alternatives
  • Visualize your desired outcomes and experiences

By consciously directing your thoughts, you can transform your life, attracting circumstances that align with your inner state and aspirations.

2. Circumstances reflect inner mental state

You are where you are by the law of your being; the thoughts that you have built into your character have brought you there, and in the arrangement of your life there is no element of chance, but all is the result of a law that cannot err.

External reflects internal. Your circumstances are not random occurrences but direct reflections of your inner mental state. The conditions of your life harmonize with your thoughts, beliefs, and character. This principle applies to all aspects of life, including relationships, career, and personal growth.

Change begins within. To improve your circumstances:

  • Examine your current thought patterns and beliefs
  • Identify limiting beliefs and replace them with empowering ones
  • Take responsibility for your situation rather than blaming external factors
  • Cultivate patience, as external changes may take time to manifest

Remember that challenging circumstances often present opportunities for growth and learning. By aligning your thoughts with your desired outcomes, you create the foundation for positive change in your external reality.

3. Cultivate positive thoughts for better health

The body is the servant of the mind. It obeys the operations of the mind, whether they be deliberately chosen or automatically expressed.

Mind-body connection. Your mental state profoundly influences your physical health. Positive thoughts promote vitality and well-being, while negative thoughts can lead to illness and decay. The body responds to the mind's commands, whether conscious or unconscious.

Nurture mental and physical health. To improve your overall well-being:

  • Practice positive self-talk and affirmations
  • Cultivate gratitude and optimism
  • Manage stress through relaxation techniques
  • Visualize health and vitality
  • Maintain a balanced lifestyle with proper nutrition and exercise

By fostering a positive mental attitude, you create an internal environment conducive to health and healing. This approach complements traditional medical care and can enhance overall wellness.

4. Align thoughts with purpose for achievement

Until thought is linked with purpose there is no intelligent accomplishment.

Purpose-driven thinking. Aimless thoughts lead to unfocused actions and mediocre results. By aligning your thoughts with a clear purpose, you harness the power of your mind to achieve your goals. This focused approach increases your chances of success in any endeavor.

Develop purposeful thinking. To enhance your achievements:

  • Define clear, specific goals
  • Regularly visualize your desired outcomes
  • Break large goals into smaller, manageable tasks
  • Maintain unwavering focus on your objectives
  • Cultivate discipline and persistence

By consistently aligning your thoughts with your purpose, you create a powerful force that propels you towards your goals. This focused approach helps overcome obstacles and transforms aspirations into reality.

5. Nurture visions and ideals to realize them

Those who cherish a beautiful vision, a lofty ideal in their hearts, will one day realize it.

Power of vision. Your visions and ideals serve as blueprints for your future reality. By nurturing these mental images, you set in motion the forces necessary to bring them into existence. This principle applies to personal goals, artistic endeavors, and societal progress.

Cultivate and pursue your vision. To turn your dreams into reality:

  • Clearly define your vision or ideal
  • Regularly visualize and emotionally connect with your desired outcome
  • Take consistent action towards your goals
  • Remain open to opportunities and guidance
  • Persist in the face of challenges and setbacks

Remember that great achievements often begin as mere dreams or visions. By holding fast to your ideals and working diligently towards them, you increase the likelihood of their manifestation in the physical world.

6. Take responsibility for your life outcomes

A person does not end up in the gutter or a prison by the tyranny of fate or circumstance, but by the path of low thoughts and base desires.

Personal accountability. Your life outcomes are primarily the result of your thoughts, choices, and actions, not external circumstances or fate. By accepting responsibility for your situation, you empower yourself to create positive change and overcome challenges.

Embrace personal power. To take control of your life:

  • Recognize the role of your thoughts and actions in shaping your reality
  • Avoid blaming others or external factors for your circumstances
  • Identify areas where you can make positive changes
  • Set goals and take consistent action towards them
  • Learn from mistakes and use them as opportunities for growth

By taking responsibility for your life, you reclaim your power to shape your destiny. This mindset fosters resilience, personal growth, and the ability to create the life you desire.

7. Practice serenity for greater success

The more tranquil we become, the greater is our success, our influence, our power for good.

Calm mind, powerful actions. Cultivating inner peace and tranquility enhances your ability to navigate life's challenges and achieve your goals. A serene mind allows for clearer thinking, better decision-making, and more effective actions.

Develop inner calm. To increase your serenity and success:

  • Practice mindfulness and meditation
  • Cultivate emotional regulation skills
  • Develop a sense of detachment from external circumstances
  • Focus on what you can control and accept what you cannot
  • Regularly engage in activities that promote relaxation and inner peace

By fostering a calm and balanced state of mind, you enhance your ability to respond effectively to life's challenges and opportunities. This inner serenity becomes a source of strength and influence, enabling you to make a positive impact on yourself and others.

Last updated:

Review Summary

4.11 out of 5
Average of 1k+ ratings from Goodreads and Amazon.

As You Think receives mostly positive reviews, with many readers finding it a powerful, concise guide to self-empowerment. Reviewers praise its wisdom on the impact of thoughts on one's life and achievements. Some consider it a must-read and keep it for frequent reference. Critics note its similarity to other self-help books and question its scientific basis. The book's small size is seen as both a strength and a weakness. Non-English readers report issues with translations and audiobook quality.

Your rating:

About the Author

James Allen was a British philosophical writer born in 1864. After his father's murder, he worked in manufacturing before retiring at 38 to pursue writing. He moved to Ilfracombe with his family, where he wrote 19 works in nine years. Allen's books focus on using the power of thought for self-improvement. His most famous work, "As a Man Thinketh," published in 1902, argues that noble thoughts create a noble person. Although not widely recognized during his lifetime, Allen's work continues to influence people worldwide, particularly in the New Thought movement. He died in 1912, after which his wife continued publishing his magazine.

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