As Man Thinketh by James Allen

I recently watched the lovely Lisa Davies talking about a book which she and her husband John have the right to print. It is a book I know very well indeed. Its title is ‘Your Key To happiness and Success’. I have read it on many occasions and it does not fail to provide inspirational thoughts and suggestions. It is a worthy addition to any ‘thinkers’ library.

This is not the book being reviewed today! ‘Your Key To happiness and Success’ is mentioned because it has prompted me to write about James Allen’s ‘As Man Thinketh’: a book which compliments ‘Your Key To happiness and Success’ very well indeed.

As Man Thinketh

I first read this book forty or more years ago. A friend gave me a copy and said ‘Always keep a copy near Ian, and give away as many as you can afford.’ I followed Francis’s advice and know many have benefitted from the gift.

The Book

As Man Thinketh is a self-help book by James Allen, published in 1903. It was described by Allen as “… [dealing] with the power of thought, and particularly with the use and application of thought to happy and beautiful issues. I have tried to make the book simple, so that all can easily grasp and follow its teaching, and put into practice the methods which it advises. It shows how, in his own thought-world, each man holds the key to every condition, good or bad, that enters into his life, and that, by working patiently and intelligently upon his thoughts, he may remake his life, and transform his circumstances. The price of the book is only one shilling, and it can be carried in the pocket.” It was also described by Allen as “A book that will help you to help yourself”, “A pocket companion for thoughtful people”, and “A book on the power and right application of thought.”

It can be read in about an hour. And, although the style is dated the text is easily understood. James Allen’s words still hold true in 2021 as they did in 1903. The book is the foundation stone of many great thinkers: Napolean Hill – Robert Covey and Victor Frankel all mention the book and James Allen’s works.

Most esoteric readers will already know much of James’s ideas. All have been recycled many times indeed. In fact, one can easily see the seeds of ‘The Secret’ in the short chapters. However, James Allen describes the idea in the best way possible. And anyone who asks the question: ‘If thinking about something will make it happen: why do so many fail to attain the objective’ the answer can be found within the book. And, no, I will not expand on this aspect.

Live and think right and life will be right is the main message. And we know this is an accurate path to success. But ‘As Man Thinketh’ is a classic, in every sense of the word. Why not download the Kindle App to your phone (iPhone or Android) and download a copy? When life stands still or a reminder of how to succeed in life is needed: James Allen’s words will brighten your day.

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