As a Man Thinketh

Description

*As a Man Thinketh* is a philosophical essay written by James Allen, first published in 1903. It is often regarded as a classic work on self-help, personal development, and the power of thought. The central idea of the work is that a person’s character, circumstances, and destiny are shaped by their thoughts. Allen argues that by changing one’s thinking, an individual can transform their life.

### Key Themes:

1. **The Power of Thought:**
Allen emphasizes that “as a man thinketh in his heart, so is he.” The way a person thinks determines their actions, their character, and ultimately their life experiences. Negative thoughts lead to negative outcomes, while positive thoughts lead to success and fulfillment.

2. **Mind and Character:**
The essay explores how thoughts shape character. The mind is likened to a garden, and thoughts are the seeds. Just as a garden will grow weeds if left untended, so will the mind produce negative or harmful thoughts unless carefully cultivated. A person must actively choose to nurture positive and virtuous thoughts.

3. **Effect of Thought on Circumstances:**
According to Allen, external circumstances are the result of internal thought patterns. A person cannot blame external conditions for their suffering or failure. Instead, by changing their internal dialogue and mindset, they can change their life circumstances.

4. **Self-Mastery and Discipline:**
Allen advocates for self-mastery and the discipline to control one’s thoughts. By disciplining the mind, an individual can take charge of their destiny. Positive thoughts lead to actions aligned with one’s goals, while negative thoughts lead to self-destructive behaviors.

5. **The Law of Attraction:**
While the exact term “law of attraction” isn’t used, Allen’s ideas resonate with what we now refer to as the law of attraction—the notion that we attract what we focus on. If a person focuses on positive outcomes, they are more likely to manifest positive circumstances.

6. **Serenity and Peace:**
Allen suggests that true peace and success come from mastering one’s mind. When one achieves inner peace and harmony by controlling their thoughts, they are less affected by the external chaos of the world. Such a person is focused on their own internal state of being.

7. **Health and Healing:**
Thought also plays a role in physical health. Allen suggests that good thoughts lead to good health, and negative thoughts can manifest as physical ailments. A person who maintains a positive mindset is more likely to experience physical well-being.

8. **The Role of Purpose:**
Allen stresses that individuals must have a clear purpose and that their thoughts should be aligned with that purpose. When people live with intention and purpose, they are able to direct their thoughts and actions toward achieving their goals.

### Quotes from *As a Man Thinketh*:

– *“A man is literally what he thinks, his character being the complete sum of all his thoughts.”*
– *“The soul attracts that which it secretly harbors; that which it loves, and also that which it fears.”*
– *“Circumstance does not make the man; it reveals him to himself.”*
– *“The outer conditions of a person’s life will always be found to be harmoniously related to their inner state.”*

### Conclusion:
In *As a Man Thinketh*, James Allen presents a profound yet simple truth: by mastering our thoughts, we can master our lives. Our character, our circumstances, and our future are all reflections of what is happening within us. The essay urges individuals to take responsibility for their thinking and cultivate a positive, purposeful, and disciplined mind to create a life of success, peace, and happiness. It remains one of the most influential and widely read works in the self-help and personal development genres.