As a man Thinketh- Book Summary

AUTHOR: JAMES ALLEN

As a man thinketh, is the third book of James Allen, published in 1903. This book is inspired by the Biblical verse from the book of proverbs 23:7 — “As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he.” Described by Allen as “A book that will help you to help yourself.”

Thought And Character

A man is literally what he thinks, his character being the sum of all his thoughts. As the plant springs from, and could not be without the seed, so every act of a man springs from the hidden seeds of thought, and could not have appeared without them. A noble and Godlike character is not a thing of favor or chance but is the natural result of continued effort in right thinking. The man is the master of thought.

Effect of Thought on Circumstances

A man cannot directly choose his circumstances but can choose his thoughts, and so indirectly, yet surely, shape his circumstances. Pure thoughts crystallize into the habit of self-control, which solidifies into the circumstance of repose and peace. Gentle and forgiving thoughts crystallize into the habit of gentleness, which solidifies into protective and preservative circumstances. Like these Impure thoughts crystallize into enervating and confusing habits, which solidify into distracting and adverse circumstances.

Effect of Thought on Health and the Body

The body is the servant of the mind. It obeys the operations of the mind. Strong, pure, and happy thoughts build up body vigor and grace. The body is a delicate and plastic instrument, which response to the thoughts by which it is impressed. Men will have a sick and unfit body, so long as they propagate impure thoughts. There is no physician like cheerful thoughts for dissipating the ills of the body.

Thought and Purpose

Until thought is linked with the purpose there is no intelligent accomplishment. One should make his purpose the centralizing point of his thoughts. He should make this purpose his supreme duty and should devote himself to its attainment. As the physically weak man can make himself strong by careful and patient training, so the man of weak thoughts can make them strong by exercising himself in right thinking.

The Thought factor in Achievement

All achievements whether in the business, intellectual or spiritual world, are the result of definitely directed thoughts. All that a man achieves and all that he fails to achieve is the direct result of his own thoughts. A man can only rise, conquer, and achieve by lifting up his thoughts. Achievement, of whatever kind, is crown of effort, the diadem of thought.

Visions and Ideals

The dreamers are the saviors of the world. He who cherishes a beautiful vision, a lofty ideal in his heart, will one day realize it. Columbus cherished a vision of another world, he discovered it. Dream lofty dreams, and as you dream, so shall you become. Your vision is the promise of what you shall one day be. 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.

Serenity

The calmness of mind is one of the beautiful jewels of wisdom. It is the result of long and patient effort in self-control. The calm man, having learned how to govern himself, knows how to adapt himself to others. The strong, calm man is always loved and revered. Self-control is strength; Right Thought is mastery; Calmness is power. Say unto your heart,” Peace, be still.”

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