As a Man Thinketh - The Original 1902 Classic (includes The Mastery of Destiny) (Reader's Library Classics)

The Vision that you glorify in your mind, the Ideal that you enthrone in your heart—this you will build your life by, this you will become.

The Original 1902 Classic

Even more important in modern times with a myriad of forces distracting us from achieving a fulfilled life, As a Man Thinketh reveals the hidden powers and possibilities within yourself by expounding on the importance of thought. Your own thoughts shape your character, circumstance, and destiny, and the control of your own thoughts liberates us from undesirable experiences. In our never-ending pilgrimage to a deeper understanding of life, there is no better prescription than the mastery over the mind.

An inspiration to millions, Allen’s work has been celebrated for its ease of understanding yet profound in its wisdom. Presented here complete in the original text is Allen’s classic self-help treatises As a Man Thinketh (1902) and The Mastery of Destiny (1909).

Book Summary of As a Man Thinketh by James Allen | ASIN: 9388118421
'As a Man Thinketh' by James Allen is a foundational work in the self-help and philosophical literature, presenting the profound concept that a person's thoughts are the true architects of their life, character, and circumstances. The book's central thesis, derived from the biblical proverb, is that "As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he." Allen argues that a person is literally the sum of their thoughts, and that their character is merely the crystallized result of habitual thinking. Every action, good or bad, is preceded by a corresponding thought; therefore, to change one's life, one must first purify and master the mind. This idea establishes a direct relationship between the inner world of thought and the outer world of manifestation, making each individual responsible for their own destiny.

The author uses the powerful analogy of the garden to illustrate the effect of thought on circumstance. The mind, like a garden, must be actively cultivated; if the gardener fails to plant useful seeds and weed out the useless ones, the garden will be overrun by weeds. Similarly, if one neglects to plant and nourish thoughts of purpose, strength, and purity, the "weeds" of fear, doubt, and negative self-pity will take root and create unfavorable circumstances. Allen emphasizes that circumstances do not "make" the man but rather reveal him to himself, functioning as indispensable agents of development tailored to his inner state. The universe is governed by law, and the inner state of a person will always attract outwardly that which harmonizes with it—good thoughts leading to good results, and bad thoughts leading to bad results. This concept reframes misfortune, suggesting that those who continually find themselves in unpleasant circumstances must examine and change the stream of their own thinking, thereby taking control of their lives from a perceived external fate.

Furthermore, Allen delves into the effect of thought on health and the body, asserting that the body is the servant of the mind. It obeys the operations of the mind, whether those operations are conscious or automatic. He suggests that disease and health are also rooted in thought, with fearful and impure thoughts manifesting as sickness, and joyous, pure, and courageous thoughts resulting in a strong and healthy physique. Even the outer appearance, such as a "sour face," is often the visible manifestation of persistently sour thoughts. By cultivating thoughts of serenity, kindness, and self-control, an individual promotes not only mental well-being but also physical vitality, demonstrating a holistic mind-body connection rooted in mental discipline.

The book moves on to discuss the critical importance of Thought and Purpose. Without a central purpose, life becomes a rudderless ship, falling victim to petty worries, fears, and self-pity, which inevitably lead to failure. Allen insists that achievement, even in worldly matters, is impossible until thought is linked with purpose. The first step toward a strong, successful life is to conceive of a legitimate purpose and dedicate oneself to its accomplishment. Doubts and fears are the greatest enemies of achievement; they must be conquered and banished by cultivating thoughts of courage, energy, and power. Success is not a matter of luck or chance but the direct result of right thinking and the application of that thought with unwavering focus and purpose.

Finally, 'As a Man Thinketh' concludes with a focus on Serenity, describing it as the beautiful jewel of wisdom and the last lesson of culture. Serenity is a manifestation of long and patient effort in self-control. A calm mind, having mastered itself, understands the laws of thought and the operations of the universe. The calm man, being at peace within, is able to attract and influence others, demonstrating a spiritual strength that commands respect and reliance. True power resides in this inner tranquility, which allows a person to meet difficulties bravely and overcome them wisely. By maintaining a firm hand upon the helm of thought, a person can ascend to a state of Divine Perfection, building for themselves "heavenly mansions of joy and strength and peace," thus becoming the conscious and intelligent master of their thoughts, character, and destiny.