As A Man Thinketh (1903) by James Allen

Short Summary: This book is a philosophical essay that investigates the significant influence of thoughts on character, circumstances, and destiny, arguing that by dominating one's thoughts, a person may mold their life and reach true success and pleasure. #JamesAllen #PositiveThinking #MindsetMatters #SelfImprovement #PersonalGrowth #Audiobook Summary: As a Man Thinketh is an essay by James Allen that was self-published in 1903. The book investigates the premise that a person's beliefs have a significant impact on their circumstances and experiences in life. The book's fundamental thesis is that our thoughts shape our personalities and influence the quality of our lives. Allen contends that by regulating our thoughts and focusing on good, uplifting concepts, we can improve our lives, achieving success and happiness. The book also emphasizes the value of accepting responsibility for our ideas and actions, as well as the role of self-discipline and dedication in accomplishing our goals. James Allen was born in England in 1864, and his father was struggling in the textile industry. When Allen was 15 years old, his father came to New York City to seek work. Unfortunately, he was robbed and murdered few days after his arrival. Allen was obliged to leave school and work to support the family. Continuing the intellectual discipline of reading and writing established in him by his father, Allen studied his father's works on ethics, religion, and philosophy over lunch breaks and long into the evenings. He was searching for purpose and meaning in his life, feeling stuck and unsure of his course. In 1889, Allen obtained new work as a secretary outside of the factory and continued to study global religions, realizing that the underlying theme was self-development and inner purification. He began writing down his own thoughts, and in 1903, Allen wrote As a Man Thinketh, which encapsulated the idea that our thoughts are causative, and that thought is the cause of oneself. The title could have been inspired by the saying, "As he thinketh in his heart, so is he." James Allen draws about his own personal experiences of mental fortitude and recovery from despair, as well as the struggles he had as a kid. From the publishing of this book forward, he published one book per year until his death in 1912. This work would go on to inspire Napoleon Hill, Dale Carnegie, Marxus Garvey, and countless more. He emphasizes that by directing our thoughts toward excellence and fulfilling personal goals, we attract who we are rather than what we want. As James Allen himself stated, "This tiny work (the fruit of meditation and experience) is not intended as a thorough treatise on the much-discussed subject of the power of thought. It is suggestive rather than explanatory, with the goal of encouraging men and women to discover and perceive the truth that "They themselves are makers of themselves" by virtue of the thoughts they choose and encourage; that mind is the master weaver, both of the inner garment of character and the outer garment of circumstance; and that, as they may have woven in ignorance and pain in the past, they may now weave in enlightenment and happiness." Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction 00:20 - Foreword 00:56 - Thought and Character 04:53 - Effect of Thought on Circumstances 21:29 - Effect of Thought on Health and the Body 25:02 - Thought and Purpose 28:54 - The Thought-Factor in Achievement 34:30 - Visions and Ideals 41:03 - Serenity Credits: Text - James Allen Audio Narration - Gtts Journey This YouTube book is copyright ©2025 Stories Day En General Disclaimer: This recording is a production of Stories Day En for the purpose of research and study. The views and opinions expressed in this book belong to the author and may not necessarily reflect those of Stories Day En, nor its affiliates. About Stories Day En: Our educational channel provides rare, rarely unseen texts in a readily accessible format. Each book includes an overview in the description, original narration, and detailed photos on each page. Our library is designed for academic study and research in metaphysical philosophy, as well as individuals seeking enlightenment, personal transformation, and self-improvement. We welcome your participation by subscribing and sharing your ideas in the comments area.