Think and Grow Rich Workbook
Think and Grow Rich Workbook
Think and Grow Rich Workbook
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BY JOEL FOTINOS
& AUGUST
GOLD
JEREMY
P. TARCHER!PENGUIN
The
NAPOLEON
THINK
HILL'S
RICH
Penguin
Group
JEREMY P. TARCHGn/PENGUIN Pu blishcd by the Pengui n Group (USA) Inc., 375 Hudson Street, New York, New York 10014, USA,
Penguin
Group
(Canada),
90 Eglinton Avenue E05t, Suite 700, Toronto, Ontario M4p 2Y3, Canada (a division of Pearson Canada Inc.) • Penguin Books Ltd, 80 Strand, London WC2l<, ORL, England • Penguin Ireland, 25 St Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, Ireland (a division of Penguin Books Ltd) • Penguin Group (Australia), 250 Camberwell Road, Cambcrwcll.Victoria 3124,Australia Pearson Australia Group Pty Ltd) • Penguin Books India Pvt Ltd, 11 Community Centre, Panchsheel (a division Park, of
New Delhi-I 10 017, India' Penguin Group (NZ), 67 Apollo Drive, Rosedale, North Shore 0632, New Zealand (a division of Pearson New Zealand Ltd) ~ Penguin Books (South Africa) (Pty) Lrd, 24 Sturdee Avenue, Roscbnnk.johannesburg 2196, South Africa Penguin Books Ltd, Registered Offices: 80 Strand, London WC2R ORL, England
77dllk and Groll'Ric" was first published in 1937. Workbook adaptation copyright © 2009 by Joel Farinas and August Gold All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, scanned, or distributed in any printed electronic form without permission. Please do not participate in or encourage piracy of copyrighted in violation of the authors' right,. Purchase only authorized editions. Published Most Torcher/Penguin for sales promotions, excerpts simultaneously in Canada discounts for bulk purchase (USA) Inc.
or
materials
also em be created to fit specific needs. For detail" write Penguin Gronp Special Markets, 375 Hudson Street, New York, NY 10014. Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Focinos.jocl, The think and grow rich workbook p. ( joel Fotinos & August
CIll.
Data
Gold.
Based on the book Think and grow rich by Napoleon Hill. IS13N 978-1-58542-711-6 1. Success in business, L Gold, Angust, date. II. Hill, Napoleon, 1883-1970. Think Ill.Title, IV.Titlc.The think and grow rich workbook. HF5386.F464 2009 2009010287 332.024'01-dc22 Printed in Canada
3
BOOK
10
OES1GN
BY NICOLE
LAHOCHE
Neither the publisher nor the authors procedures, and suggestions contained
are engaged in rendering professional advice Or services to the individual reader. The ideas, in this book ore not intended as a substitute for consulting with your physician, All matters Neither th e authors nor the pu blisher shall be linblc or responsible or suggestion in this book. accurate telephone numbers and Internet for any loss
regarding your health reg uire medical supervision. or damage allegedly arising from any information While the authors
tion, neither the publisher nor the authors assume Jny responsibility for errors, or for changes that occur after publication. Further, the publisher does not have any control over and does not assume any responsibility for author or third-party websites Or their content.
INTRODUCTION
Do not spend a single moment more wondering whether this Think and Grow Rich Workbook can work for you. It can. Specifically, it will if you do the work in this book exactly as it is written, in both spirit and form. The workbook is designed carefully. On the left-hand pages, all taken directly from the original text of Think and Grow Rich, YOllwill be reading a story of people who through their thinking grew rich. Or YOllwill be introduced to different laws of prosperity or asked to reflect on certain important ideas. The left-hand pages are designed to educate and inspire you. The right-hand pages will ask you to take an action. Do not skip over any suggested action hoping to find an easier action, one more to your liking; take the action. In this workbook, reading every story and taking every action is important.
In the back of the book yOll will find "Success Notes." In this section, you are
asked to record both the large and small successes that you will experience along the way. These successes may seem like intuitions, synchronicities, creative ideas that we or others have, chance meetings, important connections made, or even nighttime dreams that take on more significance than ever before. Whatever they look like, write all your successes down, as it is part of the process. Thinking and growing rich is a process that works one step at a time, not something that appears full-blown overnight.This workbook from its first page to the last is intended to guide you successfully through the process.
What makes us so confident that the Think and Grow Rich process works if you work at it? Because we used it and it worked for us. Here's what happened: We had unexpectedly just received a "no" from a book agent to whom we had submitted our novel. Instead of scrambling for next steps, we decided to put aside for the moment our efforts toward getting published and instead pick up Think and Grow Rich.
We both had heard of this book for years. Napoleon Hill's prosperity principles, gleaned from the study of the richest men of his time, has sold millions of copies, is credited with helping countless men and women become wealthier, and is the foundation of most modern financial and business self-help books that have followed since its publication. We figured that if the book is still selling since its publication during the Depression, there must be a reason. We agreed to be prosperity partners, studying the original version of Think and Grow Rich one chapter at a time (which is available in book form, or can even be found on the Internet). Since there are thirteen "Steps to Riches:' we agreed to meet in person once a week for thirteen weeks to compare notes and our progress. Further, we agreed to follow each suggestion and exercise exactly as suggested in Hill's book. In addition, we chose a specific dollar amount that we individually wanted to have in hand at the end of the thirteen-week program. To help us on our way, we decided to cut up a copy of the text and create a personal workbook to make it easier for us to do everything Napoleon Hill suggests in his book. We wanted a workbook to record our desires and goals, to do the exercises, to keep a journal of our successes. Our own version of the book, now in workbook form, made the process much easier. Fast forward to the end of the thirteen weeks.Yes, we learned and grew a lot in our understanding of the laws of prosperity and the process of using the mind to attract greater riches. Yes, we felt even more confident about our potential, more deserving of riches. Yes, our thoughts grew about who we were and what we felt able to create. But no, we didn't have the cash in hand! Yet, oddly, we were unfazed by the absence of the cash.Although the cash was not in hand, we were certain it was on the way. How could we be certain? Think and Grow Rich had expanded our thinkingwe had set a burning desire for "riches" in motion, and followed it by taking all the suggested actions, so by law it was inevitable that our desire would bear fruit if we didn't give up and close the door prematurely. People fail, never the law that Hill writes about; and we were working with law. We were not wishing and hoping, we were knowing. At our weekly lunch in the thirteenth week, the idea of our novel came up (the one sitting on the shelf for the last three months). We had a hunch that it was finally time to find an agent for our book. Trust your hunches, Napoleon Hill advises,and we did. By the day's end, we had found a literary agent willing to look at the book. Less than twenty-four hours later, she called back with a "yes." Within sixty days the novel was given a preemptive offer, which is an offer to take the book off the table before any other publishers bid on it. "It's an honor to publish this book," were the exact words of our new editor. We received a good advance, and when the monies were divided up, we each had exactly the amount that we originally intended. It didn't arrive on the last day of the thirteenth week, but it did arrive.
VI
INTRODUCTION
This companion workbook was the one we created for ourselves to use during our thirteen-week program, and we knew that if it helped us, it could also make doing the work easier for others. We have since shared our workbook pages with many people over the past several years, and have heard firsthand from others how having the exercises and highlights from Think and Grow Rich put into a workbook form aids in the Think and Grow Rich journey. Our book is used most successfully as a companion as you read a copy of Napoleon Hill's Think and Grow Rich-however you use it, make sure you use it with an open mind. The workbook-based Rich-will on the original public-domain version of Think ami Grow help you transform the concept of your dream onto the reality of the
page, where you will see it, build it, and breathe life into it. Although many people start the Think and Grow Rich adventure and never finish it, our hope is that this workbook will help you finish the process. We wish you well in your journey of thinking and growing rich!
INTRODUCTION
VII
All achievement, no matter what 111aybe its nature or its pUipose, must begin with an intense, burning desire Jor something definite. Through some strange and poweiful principle impulse
<if
"mental
<if strong
which recognizes no
Success Story
THOMAS EDISON
Thomas Edison dreamed of a lamp that could be operated by electricity, began where he stood to put his dream into action, and despite more than ten thousand failures, he stood by that dream until he made it a physical reality. Practical dreamers do not quit. The six steps here were carefully scrutinized by Thomas A. Edison, who placed his stamp of approval upon them as being, not only the steps essential for the accumulation of money, but necessary for the attainment of any definite goal.
THE FIRST
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
OF MONEY
Fix in your mind the exact amount of money you desire. It is not sufficient to merely say "I want plenty of money." Be definite as to the amount.
$----------------Why do you choose that particular amount? Examples debt; pay are
cd! the
to pay oIr
if it.
and secure.
DESIRE
Burning Desire
A long while ago, a great warrior faced a situation which made it necessary for him to make a decision which ensured his success on the battlefield. He was about to send his armies against a powerful foe, whose men outnumbered his own. He loaded his soldiers into boats, sailed to the enemy's country, unloaded soldiers and equipment, then gave the order to burn the ships that had carried them. Addressing his men before the first battle, he said, "You see the boats going up in smoke. That means that we cannot leave these shores alive unless we win. We now have no choice-we win-or we perish!" They won.
THE FIRST
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
TASK 2: INTENTION
TO GIVE
Determine exactly what you intend to give in return for the money that you desire. (There is no such reality as "something for nothing.")
II
U U
il
backed by faith, because I have seen this power lift men [rom lowly beginnings to places of power and wealth; I have seen it rob the grave
a
n
iJ
11
II
I would like to give to/by:
:1 ~! I ,Ii
cif its victims; I have seen it serve ~ as the medium by which men ~
a
work with children/homeless/the needy; it makes me feel part
" d ~t
ft11y do you choose that particular way to give? For example, I've always wanted to
if a community;
it makes
DESIRE
Success
CHARLES
Story
DICKENS
Charles Dickens began by pasting labels on blacking pots. The tragedy of his first love penetrated the depths of his soul, and converted him into one of the world's truly great authors. That tragedy produced, first, David Coppefield, then a succession of other works that made this a richer and better world for all who read his books.
THE FIRST
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
TASK 3: A DEFINITE
DATE
Establish a definite date when you intend to possess the money you desire.
~l
l: ~
I,
o~ jj
if
independence or
if
an important
DESIRE
If
]'011
think you are beaten, you are, think you dare not, )'ou don't.
YOII
lf you
if you like to win, but you think you can't, It is almost certain won't.
lf you
For alit if the world we find, Success begins with afellow's willIt's all in the state
if mind.
Y0tl
if you think you are outclassed, You've got to think high to rise. You've got to be sure You can ever
will
are.
if yourself
b~fore
a prize.
Life's battles don 't always go To the stronger orfaster man But soon or late the man who wins Is the man wtu: thinks he can.
THE FIRST
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
TASK 4: A DEFINITE
PLAN
Create a definite plan for carrying out your desire and begin at once, whether you are ready or not, to put this plan into action.
H 1"
b
in
!i
if
t.·I~
__ __ __
Examples are to commit to completing this book/workbook; on the Internet; take a class.
DESIRE
Success Story
COPERNICUS
Copernicus, the great astronomer, dreamed of a multiplicity of worlds, and revealed them! No one denounced him as "impractical" after he had triumphed. Instead, the world worshipped at his shrine, thus proving once more that "success requires no apologies, failure permits no alibis,"
10
THE FIRST
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
TASK 5: STATEMENT
OF DESIRE
Write out a clear, concise statement of the amount of money you intend
to
state what you intend to give in return for the money, and describe clearly the plan through which you intend to accumulate it.
through l11any heartbreaking struggles before they "arrive." The turning point in the lives of those who succeed, usually comes at the fIloment
if some
crisis, through
1.
2.
__
__
3.
__
Signed:
__ l)ate:
__
DESIRE
11
Success
Story
MARCONI
Marconi dreamed of a system for harnessing the intangible forces of the ether. It may interest you to know that Marconi's "friends" had him taken into custody and had him examined in a psychopathic hospital, when he announced he had discovered a principle through which he could send messages through the air, without the aid of wires or other direct physical means of communication. Evidence that he did not dream in vain may be found in every wireless and radio in the world.
12
THE FIRST
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
Read your written statement aloud (Task 5), twice daily, once just before retiring at night, and once after arising in the morning. As you read, see and feel and believe yourself already in possession of the money. The steps callfor no "hard labor. "They callfor no sacrifice. They do not require one to become ridiculous or credulous. To apply them calls Jor no great amount
There is a d[tJerence between f()ishingjor a thing and beiflg ready to receive it. No one is ready jor a thing until he believes he can acquire it. The state Open-mindedness belie].
of mind
must
if education.
if
these six steps does callfor s~!ffident imagination to enable one to see and to understand that the accumulation
if money
and luck. One must realize that all who have accumulated great fortunes first did a certain amount of dreaming, hoping, wishing, desiring, and planning bifore they acquired the money.
DESIRE
13
GOING DEEPER
Transmuting Your Defeats Into Your Victories
crushed until it bled. Take courage, for these experiences have tempered the are assets of incomparable value.
in
1.
1.
2.
2.
3.
3.
14
THE FIRST
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
GOING
DEEPER
The greatest achievement was, at first and for a time, but a dream. The oak sleeps in the acorn. The bird waits in the egg, and in the highest vision of the soul, a waking angel stirs. Dreams are the seedlings of reality.
YOIl
if how, when,
or where it
will happen, allow yourself to write down freely the desires you have only ever dreamed about.
1.
2.
___
3.
DESIRE
15
Faith is a state oj mind which may be induced, or created, by qfJinnatiol1 or repeated instructions to the subconscious mind, through the principle oj auto-suggestion. Repetition emotion
if qfJirmation
method
if
uoluniary
development
if
the
if Jaith.
Declaration
of Faith
Have Faith in 'yourself; Faith in the Infinite. Faith is the "eternal elixir" which gives life, POWCI; and action to the impulse of thought. Faith is the starting point of all accumulation Faith is the basis by the
if riches!
Faith is the only known anti dote for failure. Faith is the element, the chemical, which when mixed with prayCf;gives one direct communication with Infinite Intelligence. Faith is the element which transforms the ordinary vibration by the finite mind
if man,
if thought,
created
Faith is the ollly agency through which the cosmicforce can be harnessed and used by man.
if Infinite
Intelligence
18
THE SECOND
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
SELF-CONFIDENCE
Auto-suggestion
FORMULA
#1
"I KNOW that 1 have the ability to achieve the object of my definite purpose in life, therefore, I demand of myself persistent, continuous action toward its attainment, and I here and now promise to render such action."
if
Take ten minutes right now to read the above statement over and over aloud with feeling. These are only words until you claim them with your emotion and make them yours. Each time you repeat it, try to memorize one additional phrase until, at the end your recitation, you have memorized the sentence.
if
FAITH
19
Success Story
MAHATMA GANDHI
Gandhi wields more potential power than any man living at his time. How did he come by that power? Gandhi has accomplished, through the influence of faith, that which the strongest military power on earth could not, and never will accomplish through soldiers and military equipment. He has accomplished the astounding feat of influencing 200 million minds to coalesce and move in unison as a single mind. What other force on earth, except faith, could do as much?
20
THE SECOND
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
SELF-CONFIDENCE
Auto-suggestion
FORMULA
#2
Any idea, plan, or purpose may be placed in the mind through repetition of thought. Tlroughts which are mixed with allY
ally reproduce themselves in outward, physical action and gradually transform themselves into physical reality, therefore, 1 will concentrate my thoughts for thirty minutes daily, upon the task of thinking of the person 1 intend to become, thereby creating in my mind a clear mental picture of that person." Take ten minutes right now to read the above statement over and over aloud with feeling. These are only words until you claim them with your emotion and make them yo III'S.
constitute a magnetic force which attracts ... other similar or related thortglrts.
Each time you repeat it, try to memorize one additional phrase until, at the end of your recitation, you have memorized the sentence. The human mind is constantly attracting vibrations which harmonize with that which dominates the human mind.
FAITH
21
The Subconscious
Mind
Auto-suggestion, mind.
Of
repetitive statements
of truth,
is a form
The subconscious mind is the chemical laboratory in which all thought impulses are combined and made ready for translation into physical reality. The subconscious mind makes no distinction between constructive and destructive thought impulses. The subconscious mind will translate into reality a thought driven by fear just as readily as it will translate into reality a thought driven by courage, or faith.
22
THE SECOND
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
SELF-CONFIDENCE
Auto-suggestion
FORMULA
#3
"1 KNOW through the principle of auto-suggestion, any desire that I persistently hold in my mind will eventually seek expression through some practical means of attaining the object back of it, therefore, I will devote ten minutes daily to demanding of myself the development of self-confidence." Take ten minutes right
nOli!
equivalent,
practical media available, an)' order which is given to it in a state oj belie] or foith that the order will be carried out.
over aloud with feeling. These are only words until you claim them with your emotion and make them yours. Each time you repeat it, try to memorize one additional phrase until, at the end your recitation,
YOH
if
have memorized
the sentence.
FAITH
23
Somewhere in your makeup there lies sleeping, this seed of achievement which, if aroused and put into action, would carry you to heights, such as you may never have hoped to attain. Just as a master musician may cause the most beautiful strains of music to pour forth fi'om the strings of a violin, so may you arouse the genius which lies asleep in your brain, and cause it to drive you upward to whatever goal you may wish to achieve.
24
THE
SECOND
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
SELF-CONFIDENCE
Auto-suggestion
FORMULA
#4
"I HAVE clearly written down a description of my definite chief aim in life, and I will never stop trying until I shall have developed sufficient self-confidence for its attainment." Take ten minutes right now to read the above statement over and over aloud with feeling. These are only words until you claim them with your emotion and make them yours.
Like the wind which carries olle ship east and another west, the law
if auto-suggestion
wflllift you up
or pul! you doum, according to the way you set your sails
if thought.
Each time you repeat it, try to memorize one additional phrase until, at the end your recitation, you have memorized the sentence.
if
FAITH
25
Riches begin in the form of thought! The amount is limited only by the person in whose mind the thought is put into motion. Faith removes limitations! Remember this when you are ready to bargain with life for whatever it is that you ask ...
26
THE SECOND
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
SELF-CONFIDENCE
Auto-suggestion
FORMULA
#5
dure, unless built upon truth and justice, therefore, I will engage in no transaction which does not benefit all whom it affects. I will succeed by attracting to myself the forces I wish to use, and the cooperation of other people. I will induce others to serve me, because of my willingness to serve others." Take ten minutes right now to read the above statement over and over aloud with feeling. These are only words until you claim them with your emotion and make them yours. Each time you repeat it, try to memorize one additional phrase until, at the end oj your recitation, you have memorized sentence. the
if industry
and render
useful service if used constructively, or swift out life if wrongly used, so will the law
1'011
if auto-suggestion if misery,
and
lead
FAITH
27
~.~~~~
~ .•~. ~. =.....
,~===,..--=·"'--~="""""...,="""'c~-,.,=-"""==.o
..
-.
-~~ ~.~..
__L:,_.-J
if auto-suggestion
if transmuting
if your
if
voluntarily
create thought habits which are favorable transmute desire into its monetary equivalent.
to your c1forts to
You are now reading the chapter which represents the keystone to the arch
if this philosophy.
chapter must be understood and applied with persistence, succeed in transmuting desire into money.
if you
Understanding
the Subconscious
Mind
1: DOMINATING
THOUGHTS
Through the dominating thoughts which one permits to remain in the conscious mind (whether these thoughts be negative or positive is immaterial), the principle of auto-suggestion voluntarily reaches the subconscious mind and influences it with these thoughts.
All sense impressions which are perceived through the five senses are stopped by the conscious thinking mind and may be either passed on to the subconscious mind or rejected, at will. The conscious faculty serves therefore as an outer gnard to the approach to the subconscious. Nature has so built man that he has absolute control over the material which reaches his subconscious mind through his five senses, although this is not meant to be construed as a statement that man always exercises this control. In the great majority of instances, he does not exercise it, which explains why so many people go through life in poverty.
30
THE THIRD
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
DOMINATING
THOUGHTS:
ing thoughts you carry with you day in and day out? Examples are: Life is too hard; I'm not a lucky person; I'm too old. 1. ___
II
_
___
P influence his II
OWIl
subconscious
2.
3.
~ I n
relatives, and acquaintances, your community, and your nation hold that you need to guard against? Examples are: Life is limited; There's not enough to go around; Be happy with what you have and don't ask for more;Things are bad and they're going to get worse. 1. 2. 3. _ ___ _
AUTO-SUGGESTION
31
Understanding
Mind,
MIND
The subconscious mind resembles a fertile garden spot in which weeds will grow in abundance if the seeds of more desirable crops are not sown therein. Auto-suggestion is the agency of control through which an individual may voluntarily feed his subconscious mind on thoughts of a creative nature, or by neglect, permit thoughts of a destructive nature to find their way into this rich garden of the mind.
32
THE THIRD
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
I!
Ii
d
in your mental garden would you like to uproot? Examples are: I've tried but I've failed before; It's too hard; I don't have enough money; I'm not smart enough; It's too much work; I was born into the wrong family. 1. _
~~ ALL
!i
If
q
~ skepticism I
U
f
2.~~ 3.
___ _
!I I !I
~ I
become crystallized into absolute faith. Then you will have arrived at the point where you may truly say, "I am the master the captain
if my fate,
I am
if my soul!"
FEEDING YOUR
rich, fertile garden of mind to replace the beliefs you have uprooted? Examples are: I experience prosperity everywhere I go; 1 open new doors in my life; I deserve the best and I accept the best now. 1. 2.
3.
___ _
___
AUTO-SUGGESTION
33
Understanding
Mind)
4: EMOTIONALIZING
BELIEFS
When reading aloud the statement of your desire (through which you are endeavoring to develop "a money consciousness"), that the mere reading of the words is of no consequence-unless
YOLl
words. If you repeat a million times the famous Emil Coue formula, "Day by day,in every way, I am getting better and better," without mixing emotion and faith with your words, you will experience no desirable results. Your subconscious mind recognizes and acts upon only thoughts which have been wellmixed with emotion or feeling. This is a fact of such importance as to warrant repetition in practically every chapter, because the lack of understanding of this is the main reason the majority of people who try to apply the principle of auto-suggestion get no desirable results. Plain, unemotional words do not influence the subconscious mind.You will get no appreciable results until you learn to reach your subconscious mind with thoughts, or spoken words which have been well emotionalized with belief.
34
THE THIRD
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
Look at the following affirmative statements. Find the one that excites you the most. Beginning today until your definite date, repeat this statement one hundred times each day. In the beginning the statement may sound like you are mechanically repeating words. But if you persist, you will find that your feelings will become engaged and they are no longer words on a page, but rather they become YOUR very being. As you repeat the statement, make sure to breathe, try to feel the words coming from deep within you. Say them this way: plant your feet on the ground, be aware of posture and your stance, and begin to speak these words aloud forcefully and powerfully until you begin to feel the strength of believing them. I am open to receive all
I am the master Every
i
j
l" , not attract and retain money except n II in a few very rare instances where
II
!I
II
II
I! !~ ,:! II
II
,I:
if
if my fate,
if life's
riches.
I am the captain
if my
soul!
II
day in every way I open new doors in Iny life. better and better.
Day by day, in every way, I am getting I am prosperous. I say yes to life, and life says yes to me. Everything I touch turns to gold.
Ii
!! concentrate on a given
I!
o
II
AUTO-SUGGESTION
35
Concentration
and Visualization
The subconscious mind takes any orders given it in a spirit of absolute faith, and acts upon those orders, although the orders often have to be presented over and over again, through repetition, before they are interpreted by the subconscious mind. Fix in your own mind the exact amount of money you desire, hold your thoughts on that amount of money by concentration, or fixation of attention, with your eyes closed, until you can actually see the physical appearance of the money. Do this at least once each day as you see yourself actually in possession of the money. Consider the possibility of playing a perfectly legitimate "trick" on your subconscious mind, by making it believe, because you believe it, that you must have the amount of money you are visualizing, that this money is already awaiting your claim.
36
THE THIRD
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
INSTRUCTIONS
FOR VISUALIZATION
Go into some quiet spot (preferably in bed at night) where you will not be disturbed or interrupted, close your eyes, and repeat aloud (so you may hear your own words) the written statement of the amount of money you intend to accumulate, the time-limit for its accumulation, and a description of the service or merchan-
Carry out these instructions as though you were a small c/tild. Inject into your efforts something of
the faith
if a child.
dise you intend to give in return for the money. As you carry out these instructions, see yourself already in possession of the money. For example, suppose that you intend to accumulate $50,000 by the first of January, five years hence, and that you intend to give personal services in return for the money in the capacity of a salesman.Your written statement of your purpose should be similar to the following:
to me in various amounts from time to time during the interim. "In return jor this 1110neyI will give the most q[icient service oj which I am capable, rendering the Ju liest possible quantity, and the best possible quality man
<1--
<1 service in
the capacity
<1 sales-
"I believe that I will have this money in my possession. My faith is so strong that I can now see this money bifore m)' eyes. I can touch it with my hands. It is now awaiting tranger to me at the time, and in the proportion that I deliver the service I intend to render in return for it. I am awaiting a plan by which to accumulate this money, and I will follow that plan, when it is received. " (Repeat this program night and morning until you can see, in your imagination, the money you intend to accumulate. Place a written copy of your statement where you can see it night and morning, and read it just before retiring and upon arising until it has been memorized.)
AUTO-SUGGESTION
37
-~.~~="""'~~~-=.=WJJ-=~",,"'='~~""'="""'~J1)~=""_
/,..---..,
',::~
.4~~
I{
li
'~~-.J.!
~r
There are two kinds of knowledge. One is general, the other is specialized. General knowledge, no matter how great in quantity in variety it may be, is money. Knowledge will not attract money, unless it is organized, and intelligently directed, through practical plans
if
if
if money, Knowledge
if action,
when he needs it, and how to OIganize that knowledge into difinite plans if action.
Specialized
Knowledge
Thomas A. Edison had only three months of "schooling" during his entire life. Henry Ford had less than a sixth-grade "schooling." Before you can be sure of your ability to transmute desire into its monetary equivalent, you wiH require specialized knowledge of the service, merchandise, or profession which you intend to offer in return for fortune. Perhaps you may need much more specialized knowledge than you have the ability or the inclination to acquire, and if this should be sure, you may bridge your weakness through the aid of your "Master Mind" group. The accumulation of great fortunes calls for power, and power is acquired through highly organized and intelligently directed specialized knowledge, but that knowledge does not necessarily have to be in the possession of the man who accumulates the fortune. The preceding paragraph should give hope and encouragement to the man with ambition to accumulate a fortune, who has not possessed himself of the necessary "education" to supply such specialized knowledge as he may reqUIre.
40
THE FOURTH
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
WHAT YOU NEED: Decide the sort of specialized knowledge you require and the purpose for which it is needed. To a large extent, your major purpose in life, the goal toward which you are working, will help determine the knowledge you need.
Knowledge has
110
value except
that which can be gained Jrom its application toward some worthy end.
Make a list 1.
if specialized
knowledge that
)'0[.1
knowledge related to their major purpose, business, or profession. Those who are not successful usually make the mistake
Statement of Desire.
rf
2.
__
3.
SPECIALIZED
KNOWLEDGE
41
Success Story
STUART AUSTIN WIER
Stuart Austin Wier prepared himself as a Construction give him the income he required. He took inventory which he prepared himself as a corporation
this line of work until the Depression limited his market to where it did not change his profession to law, went back to school, and took special courses by lawyer. Despite the fact the Depression had not ended, he completed his training, passed the bar examination, and quickly built a lucrative law practice, in Dallas, Texas; in fact he is turning away clients. allst to keep the record straight, and to anticipate the alibis
if those
couldn't go to school because 1have afamily to support," or "I'm too old," 1will add the information that M,: Wier was past forty and married when he went back to school.)
42
THE FOURTH
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
WHERE TO FIND IT: Your next move requires that you have accurate information concerning dependable sources of know 1edge. These include one's own experience and education, colleges, workshops, special training courses, Internet, and the like.
The beginning
if any
successful
business is an idea. Persons who schedule their spare time to provide Jor home study seldom remain at the bottom vcry IOflg. Their action opel15 the way Jor
List the places where you might attain that specialized knowledgeeither within your present financial means or at
110
the upward climb, removes l11arlY obstacles from their path, and gains the Jriendly way interest
cost to you.
1.
2.
___
___
if those
who
if opportunity.
4.
5.
___
_
SPECIALIZED
KNOWLEDGE
43
Success
ENTERPRISING
Story
ACCOUNTANT
During the Depression a salesman in a grocery store found himself without a position. Having had some bookkeeping equipment, experience, he took a special course and office in accounting, familiarized himself with all the latest bookkeeping
and went into business for himself. Starting with the grocer for
whom he had formerly worked, he made contracts with more than 100 small merchants to keep their books, at a very nominal monthly fee. His idea was so practical that he soon found it necessary to set up a portable office in a light delivery truck, which he equipped with modern bookkeeping now has a fleet of these bookkeeping machinery. He offices "on wheels" and employs a large
staff of assistants, thus providing small merchants with accounting service equal to the best that money can buy, at a very nominal cost. Specialized knowledge plus imagination were the ingredients that went into this unique and successful business. Last year the owner of that business paid an income tax of almost ten times as much as was paid by the merchant for whom he worked when the Depression forced upon him a temporary adversity, which proved to be a blessing in disguise.
44
THE
FOURTH
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
A CALL TO ACTION
The person who stops studying merely because he has finished school is forever hopelessly doomed to mediocrity; no matter what may be his calling. The way of success is the way of continuous pursuit of knowledge.
Remember,
List those places where you can attain specialized knowledge and their contact information:
ORGANIZATION NAME: DATE CONTACT MADE: FEE: NEXT STEPS:
ORGANIZATION
NAME:
ORGANIZATION CONTACT
NAME:
PERSON:
SPECIALIZED
KNOWLEDGE
45
The imagination is literally the workshop wherein arefashioned all plans created by man. The impulse, the desire, is given shape, [orm, and action through the aid mind. It has been said that man can create anything which he can imagine. OJ all the ages the development the imagination. Man's only limitation, within reason, lies in his development and use
if the
if the
if civilization,
if rapid
if his
development
ill
if his
if
discovered that he has an imagination, and has commenced to use it in a very elementary way.
Desire
Some people foolishly believe that only money can make money. This is not true! Desire, transmuted into its monetary equivalent, through the principles laid down here, is the agency through which money is "made." Money, of itself, is nothing but inert matter. It cannot move, think, or talk, but it can "hear" when a man who desires it calls it to come!
48
THE FIFTH
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
DESIRE
Desire is only a thought, an impulse. It is nebulous and ephemeral. It is abstract, and of no value, until it has been transformed into its physical counterpart.
Success requires
110
explanation.
1.
2.
3. 4. 5.
___
_ ___ ___
WHO 1.
2.
3.
___
___
4.
5.
___
___
IMAGINATION
49
The imaginative faculty functions in two forms. One is known as "synthetic imagination," and the other as "creative imagination."
SYNTHETIC IMAGINATION:
concepts, ideas, or plans into new combinations. This faculty creates nothing. It merely works with the material of experience, education, and observation with which it is fed. It is the faculty used most by the inventor, with the exception of the "genius" who draws upon the creative imagination, when he cannot solve his problem through synthetic imagination.
CREATIVE IMAGINATION:
the finite mind of man has direct communication with Infinite Intelligence. It is the faculty through which "hunches" and "inspirations" are received. It is by this faculty that all basic or new ideas are handed over to man. It is through this faculty that thought vibrations from the minds of others are received. It is through this faculty that one individual may "tune in" or communicate with the subconscious minds of other men. The creative imagination works automatically, in the manner described in subsequent pages. This faculty functions only when the conscious mind is vibrating at an exceedingly rapid rate as, for example, when the conscious mind is stimulated through the emotion of a strong desire. The creative faculty becomes more alert, more receptive to vibrations from the sources mentioned, in proportion to its development through use. This statement is significant! Ponder over it before passing on. Both the synthetic and creative faculties of imagination become more alert with use, just as any muscle or organ of the body develops through use.
50
THE FIFTH
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
IMAGINATION
MAP
Symbols are powerful and direct communicators to our subconscious mind. Unlike your conscious mind, when your subconscious mind receives a symbol, it does not ask how or why or when. Those are all questions that the conscious mind often gets stuck on, thereby stopping forward movement. Symbols bypass the critical mind.
may have
become weak through inaction. It can be revived and made alert through lise. This Jaculty docs not die, though it lIlay become quiescent through lack of lise.
The Imagination
You will need: • A dozen magazines of all types • Scissors • Glue Time-limit: two undisturbed hours
Map
1. Cut out a photograph, picture, phrase, or word that excites you. Do not use your logical mind to select the "correct" images. This is an imagination-driven activity. Whatever imagery arouses your passion and ignites your desire-cut it out and place it in a pile. Make sure to include not just material "things," but also pictures that represent the qualities and feelings of the kind of person you wish to become. There need not be any rhyme or reason to the items you cut out. It is simply a matter of choosing what inspires you. 2. After you have done this with all twelve magazines, on the following two pages, assemble the words and images that are most striking to you. With a childlike enthusiasm, begin to create a collage that is pleasing to your eye. It must fit on these two pages, so you will have to be selective-you 3. Glue these images and words into place. 4. Twice a day as you read your Statement of Desire, turn to your Imagination Map and impress its images upon your subconscious mind.You do not have to know how they will come into being. Simply imagine yourself living in this new way. do not need to use every item you cut out. Use only those that inspire you the most.
IMAGINATION
51
52
THE FIFTH
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
IMAGINATION
53
... -:m;=:m7-"i--,"
if desire
into action.
if desire, that
the abstract to the concrete, into the workshop where plans for its transition are created and
In Chapter 1, you were instructed to take six definite, practical steps as your first move in translating desire into money. One these steps is the formation
if a definite,
if
1. Ally yourself with a group of as many people as you may need for the creation and carrying out of your plan, or plans for the accumulation of money-making use of the Master Mind principle described in a later chapter (in Step 9). 2. Before forming your Master Mind alliance, decide what advantages, and benefits, you may offer the individual members of your group, in return for their cooperation. Noone will work indefinitely without some form of compensation. No intelligent person will either request or expect another to work without adequate compensation, although this may not always be in the form of money. 3. Arrange to meet with the members of your Master Mind group at least twice a week, and more often if possible, until you have jointly perfected the necessary plan, or plans, for the accumulation of money. 4. Maintain perfect harmony between yourself and every member of your Master Mind group. If you fail to carry out this instruction to the letter, you may expect to meet with failure. The Master Mind principle cannot obtain where perfect harmony does not prevail.
56
THE SIXTH
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
Make a list
if a potential
group
church, civic groups, book clubs, neighbors). These are people whom you admire for one reason or another; each person does not have to have all
if the skills
ability to communicate with lmge groups brings inspiration-so complement Name: Phone: Name: Phone: Name: Phone: Name: Phone: Name: Phone: Name: Phone: Name: Phone: Name: Phone:
if people,
another might be
people. Every plan you adopt in your endeavor to accumulate wealth should be the joint creation
excellent at finances and accounting, another might be a person who that together these people provide you with afull necessary for your success. Success quality: E-mail: Success quality: E-mail: Success quality: E-mail: Success quality: E-mail: Success quality: E-mail: Success quality: E-mail: Success quality: E-mail: Success quality: E-mail:
if if
if attributes
your Master Mind group. You may originate your own plans, either in whole or in part, but see that those plans are checked and approved by the members alliance.
if YOHr
Master Mind
ORGANIZED
PLANNING
57
Temporary Defeats
Henry Ford met with temporary defeat, not only at the beginning of his automobile career, but after he had gone £'11' to the top. He created new plans, and went marching on to financial victory. James J. Hill met with temporary difeat when he first endeavored to raise the necessary capital to build a railroad from the East to the West, but he, too, turned defeat into victory through new plans. Thomas A. Edison "failed" ten thousand times before he perfected the incandescent electric light bulb. We see men who have accumulated great fortunes, but we often recognize only their triumph, overlooking the temporary defeats which they had to surmount before "arriving." Edison met with temporary defeat ten thousand times before his efforts were crowned with success. No follower of this philosophy can reasonably expect to accumulate a fortune without experiencing temporary defeat. When defeat comes, accept it as a signal that your plans are not sound, rebuild those plans, and set sail once more toward your coveted goal.
58
THE SIXTH
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
SUCCESS AFFIRMATION
~------~-~--------------------------,
II if
Ii
if this
011,
QUITTER
Il fails '1
NEVER WINS
&
WINNER QUITS!
NEVER
Cut the above box declaration out and place it where you will see it every night before you go to sleep and every morning before you go to work. No man is ever whipped, until he quits-in his own mind.
ORGANIZED
PLANNING
59
of Leadership
if self, if one's
1. Unwavering
and
occupation . No
follower wishes to be dominated by a leader who lacks self-confidence and courage. No intelligent follower will be dominated by such a leader very long. 2. Self-control. The man who cannot control himself can never control others. Self-control sets a mighty example for one's followers, which the more intelligent will emulate. 3. A keen sense ifjrlstice. Without a sense of fairness and justice, no leader can command and retain the respect of his followers. 4. Definiteness C?f decision. The man who wavers in his decisions shows that he is not sure of himself. He cannot lead others successfully, 5. Dejiniteness
ifplans.
The successful leader must plan his work and work his
plan. A leader who moves by guesswork, without practical, definite plans, is comparable to a ship without a rudder. Sooner or later he will land on the rocks. 6. TIle habit
if doinS
necessity of willingess, upon the part of the leader, to do more than he requires of his followers. 7. A pleasing personality. No slovenly, careless person can become a successful leader. Leadership calls for respect. Followers will not respect a leader who does not grade high on all of the factors of a Pleasing Personality. 8. Sympathy 9. Masterv and understanding. The successful leader must be in sympathy with his followers. Moreover, he must understand them and their problems.
if detail.
leader's position. 10. Willingness to assume full responsibility. The successful leader must be willing to assume responsibility for the mistakes and the shortcomings of his followers. If he tries to shift this responsibility, he will not remain the leader. If one of his followers makes a mistake, and shows himself incompetent, the leader must consider that it is he who failed. 11. Cooperation. The successful leader must understand, and apply the principle of cooperative effort and be able to induce his followers to do the same. Leadership calls for power, and power calls for cooperation.
60
THE SIXTH
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
There are two types of people in the world. One type is known as leaders and the other as followers. Decide at the outset whether you intend to become a leader in your chosen calling or remain a follower. The difference in compensation is vast.
i
II
I his leadership ,
if
abundant
~ life. It is no disgrace to be a follower. On the other hand, it is no credit to remain a follower. Most great leaders began in the capacity of followers. They became great leaders because they were intelligent followers. With few exceptions, the man who cannot follow a leader intelligently cannot become an efficient leader. The man who can follow a leader most efficiently is usually the man who develops into leadership most rapidly. An intelligent follower has many advantages, among them the opportunity to acquire knowledge from his leader. In what situations have you played the role of follower? family) (i.e., volunteering, jobs,
In what situations have you played the role of leader? (i.e., volunteering, jobs, family)
ORGANIZED
PLANNING
61
if what they
The world does not pay men for that which they "know." It pays them for what they
if competition
from fo7lowers. The leader who fears that one of his followers may
take his position is practically sure to realize that fear sooner or later. The able leader trains understudies to whom he may delegate, at will, any of the details of his position. Only in this vvay may a leader multiply himself and prepare himself to be at many places, and give attention to many things at one time. 5. Lack
cif imagination.
cies and of creating plans by which to guide his followers efficiently. 6. Selfishness. The leader who claims all the honor for the work of his followers is sure to be met by resentment. The really great leader claims none of the honors. He is contented to see the honors, when there are any,go to his followers, because he knows that most men will work harder for commendation and recognition than they will for money alone. 7. Intemperance. Followers do not respect an intemperate leader. Moreover, intemperance in any of its various forms destroys the endurance and vitality of all who indulge in it.
8. Disloyalty. The leader who is not loyal to his trust, and to his associates, those above
him, and those below him, cannot long maintain his leadership. Lack ofloyalty is one of the major causes of failure in every mark of life. 9. Emphasis
if the
"authority"
if leadership.
The efficient leader leads by encouraging, and comes within the category of leadership
not by trying to instill fear in the hearts of his followers. The leader who tries to impress his followers with his "authority" except by his conduct. 10. Emphasis through force. If a leader is a real leader, he will have no need to advertise that fact
if title.
his followers. The man who makes too much over his title generally has little else to emphasize.
62
THE SIXTH
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
This line of procedure may take a few days or weeks of extra time, but the difference in income, in advancement, and in gaining recognition will save years of hard work at small pay. It has many advantages, the main one being that it will often save from one to five years of time in reaching a chosen goal.
i1 I~ !~
;~~:;:;,:~~t~~:;;:i::n). .z:
1. Decide exactly what kind of job you want. If the job doesn't already exist, perhaps you can create it.
3. Study your prospective employer, as to policies, personnel, and chances of advancement. 4. By analysis of yourself, your talents and capabilities, figure what you can offer and plan ways and means of giving advantages, services, developments, ideas that you believe you can successfully deliver.
5. Forget about "a job." Forget whether or not there is an opening. Forget the usual routine of "Have you got a job for me?" Concentrate on what you carl give. 6. Once you have your plan in mind, arrange with an experienced writer to put it on paper in neat form and in full detail. 7. Present it to the proper person with authority and he will do the rest. Every company is looking for men who can give something of value, whether it be ideas, services, or "connections." Every company has room for the man who has a definite plan of action which is to the advantage of that company.
ORGANIZED PLANNING 63
Q,Q,S.
have
been clearly described. Unless those causes are studied, analyzed, understood, and applied, no man can market his services effectively and permanently. Every person must be his own salesman of personal services. The quality and the quantity of service rendered, and the spirit in which it is rendered, determine to a large extent the price and the duration of employment. To market Personal services effectively (which means a permanent under pleasant conditions), market, at a satisfactory price, one must adopt and follow the "q.q.s," formula the "q.q.s," formula, but do
which means that quality, plus quantity, plus the proper spirit of cooperation, equals perfect salesmanship of service. Remember more-e-apply it as a habit! 1. Quality of service shall be construed detail, in connection to mean the performance of every
with your position, in the most efficient manner posto mean the habit of rendering all
sible, with the object of greater efficiency always in mind. 2. Quantity of service shall be understood the service of which you are capable, at all times, with the purpose of increasing the amount of service rendered as greater skill is developed through practice and experience. Emphasis is again placed on the word "habit." 3. Spirit of service shall be construed to mean the habit of agreeable, harmonious conduct which will induce cooperation employees. Adequacy of quality and quantity of service is not sufficient to maintain a permanent market for your services. The conduct, or the spirit in which you factor in connection with both the price deliver service, is a strong determining from associates and fellow
64
THE SIXTH
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
1. Quality of service shall be construed to mean the performance of every detail, in connection with your position, in the most efficient manner possible, with the object of greater efficiency always in mind. How would you rate the service you have offered in all the various places you have been employed (including the work you have performed as a volunteer)?
Adequacy
r1 quality
or quantity
of
service is not srif]icient to maintain a perfllanen t market for your services. The conduct, or the spirit in which you deliver service, is a strong determining foetor in connection with both the price YaH receille and the duration of employment. The importance
r1 a pleasing
2. Quantity of service shall be understood to mean the habit of rendering all the service of which you are capable, at all times, with the purpose of increasing the amount of service rendered as greater skill is developed through practice and experience. Emphasis is again placed on the word "habit." Where have I gone "above and beyond" what I was paid or asked to do?
if one
r1 harmony,
if
if service
one renders.
3. Spirit of service shall be construed to mean the habit of agreeable, harmonious conduct which will induce cooperation from associates and fellow employees. Were all of my work relationships agreeable and harmonious? Could they have been more so?
ORGANIZED
PLANNING
65
Life's greatest tragedy consists of men and women who earnestly try, and fail! The tragedy lies in the overwhelmingly large majority of people who fail, as compared to the few who succeed period. I have had the privilege of analyzing several thousand men and women, 98% who were classified as "failures." My analysis work proved that there are 30 major reasons for failure (see next pages for details, and to see which of these are holding you back). The oldest of admonitions is "Man, Know Thyself!" If you market merchandise successfully, you must know the merchandise. The same is true in marketing personal services.You should know all of your weaknesses in order that you may either bridge them or eliminate them entirely. You should know your strength in order that you may call attention to it when selling your services. You can know yourself only through accurate analysis.
66
THE SIXTH
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
FAILURE INVENTORY
if your
salary in
if you
position,
or to seek
go over this list with you, and help to analyze you by the thirty causes of failure. It may be beneflda! cannot. Place a check in the box next to each one that you claim is holding you back:
if
people cannot see themselves as others see them. You may be one who
D Urfavorabie hereditary backgrormd. There is but little, if anything, which can be done for people who are born with a deficiency in brain power. This philosophy offers but one method of bridging this weakness-through the aid of the Master Mind (see Step 9). Lack
o o o
if a well-defined if ambition
who does not have a central purpose, or difinite goal, at which to aim. Ninetyeight of every hundred of those whom I have analyzed had no such aim. Lack to aim above mediocrity. We offer no hope for the person who
to
Il1s~ifficient education. This is a handicap which may be overcome with comparative ease. Experience has proven that the best-educated people are often those who are known as "self-made" or self-educated. Lack
if self-discipline.
one must control all negative qualities, period. Before you can control conditions, you must first control yourself. Self-mastery is the hardest job you will ever tackle. If you do not conquer self, you will be conquered by self. III health. No person may enjoy outstanding success without good health. Many of the causes of ill health are subject to mastery and control (overeating, negative thinking, overindulgence, lack of physical exercise, improper breathing). Unjavorable environmental influences during childhood. "As the twig is bent, so shall the tree grow." Most people who have criminal tendencies acquire them
as the result of bad environment and improper associates during childhood. Procrastination. This is one of the most common causes of failure. Most of us go through life as failures because we are waiting for the "time to be right" to start doing something worthwhile. Do not wait. The time will never be "just right."
ORGANIZED
PLANNING
67
FAILURE INVENTORY,
It is one thing to want moneyeveryone wants mote-+but it is something entirely different to be worth more! Many people mistake their wants for their just dues. Your financial requirements or wants have nothing whatever to do with your worth. Your value is
II
CONTINUED
"finishers" of everything we begin. Moreover, people are prone to give up at the first signs of defeat. There is no substitute for persistence. Negative personality. There is no hope of success for the person who repels people through a negative personality. Success comes through the application of power, and power is at-
Hi ~
II "0 ~ I
~ ~
II
j!
tained through the cooperative efforts of other people. A ~ ~ negative personality will not induce cooperation. ~ established entirely by your ability ~ II o Lack if controlled sexual urge. Sex energy is the most powerful to render usefu! service or your
-Ii' ~
:11
II
q
,
Ii
of all the stimuli which move people into action. Because it is the most powerful of the emotions, it must be controlled, through transmutation, and converted into other channels.
such service. 11
o o
Lack
Uncontrolled desire for "something for nothing. instinct drives millions of people to failure. power
JJ
The gambling
if
a well-dqrned
if
promptly, and change them, if at all, very slowly. Men who fail reach decisions, if at all, very slowly, and change them frequently and quickly. Indecision and procrastination are twin brothers. One or more
if
the Six Basic Fears. Fear of poverty, criticism, ill health, loss of
love of someone, old age, and death must be mastered before you can market
if
The relationship of marriage brings people intimately into contact. Unless this relationship is harmonious, £-tilureis likely to follow. Moreover, it will be a form of failure that is marked by misery and unhappiness, destroying all signs of ambition.
o o o o
Over-caution. The person who takes no chances generally has to take whatever is left when others are through choosing. Over-caution caution. Wrong selection is as bad as under-
if
sociate most closely. Superstition and prejudice. Superstition is a form of fear. It is also a sign of ignorance. Men who succeed keep open minds. Wrong selection
if
he does not like. The most essential step in the marketing of personal services is that of selecting an occupation into which you can throw yourself wholeheartedly. D Lack of concentration
of
FAILURE INVENTORY,
D The habit
CONTINUED
Opportunity has spread its wares bifore you. Step up to the front, select what you want, create your
if indiscriminate
succeed mainly because he stands eternally in fear of poverty. Money in the bank gives one a very safe foundation courage when bargaining for the sale of personal services. Without money, one must take what one is offered, and be glad to get it. D Lack
plan, put the plan into action, and follow through with persistence.
if enthusiasm.
vincing. Moreover, enthusiasm is contagious, and the person who has it, under control, is generally welcome in any group of people. D Intolerance. The person with a" closed" mind on any subject seldom gets ahead. Intolerance means that one has stopped acquiring knowledge. D Intemperance. The most damaging forms of intemperance are connected with eating, strong drink, and sexual activities. Overindulgence fatal to success, D Inability to cooperate with others. More people lose their positions and their big opportunities in life because of this fault, then for all other reasons combined. It is a fault which no well-informed businessman or leader will tolerate. D Possession in any of these is
ifpower
one who did not acquire it gradually is often fatal to success. Quick riches are more dangerous than poverty. D Intentional dishonesty. There is no substitute for honesty. One may be tempodamage. But, there is no hope for the person who is rarily dishonest by force of circumstances over which one has no control, without permanent dishonest by choice. D Egatislil and vanity. These qualities serve as red lights which warn others to keep away.They are fatal to success. D Guessing instead f!_f thinking. Most people are too indifferent or lazy to acquire facts with which to think accurately. They prefer to act on "opinions" created by guesswork, or snap-dash judgments. D Lack
if capital.
in business for the first time without sufficient reserve of capital to absorb the shock of their mistakes and to carry them over until they have established a reputation. Add any particular cause of failure from which you have suffered that has not been included in the foregoing list.
ORGANIZED
PLANNING
69
Talee Inventory
of Yourself
Annual self-analysis is an essential in the effective marketing of personal services, as is annual inventory in merchandising. Moreover, the yearly analysis should disclose a decrease in faults, and an increase in virtues. One goes ahead, stands still, or goes backward in life. One's object should be, of course, to go ahead. Annual self-analysis will disclose whether advancement has been made, and if so, how much. It will also disclose any backward steps one may have made. The effective marketing of personal services requires one to move forward even if the progress is slow. Your annual self-analysis should be made at the end of each year, so you can include in your New Year's resolutions any improvements which the analysis indicates should be made. Take this inventory by asking yourself the questions on the following pages, and by checking your answers with the aid of someone who will not permit you to deceive yourself as to their accuracy.
70
THE SIXTH
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
INVENTORY
OF YOURSELF
FOR
Those who have lost theil'Jortunes, and those who are just begifmillg to cam money, have l10thillg but personal services to c1fer ill return Jor riches. Therefore it is essential that they have available the practical iJiforl11atiOfIneeded to market services to best advan tage.
1. Have I attained the goal which I established as my objective for this year? (You should work with a definite yearly objective to be attained as a part of your major life objective.) 2. Have I delivered service of the best possible quality of which I was capable, or could I have improved any part of this service? 3. Have I delivered service in the greatest possible quantity of which I was capable?
4. Has the spirit of my conduct been harmonious and cooperative at all times? 5. Have I permitted the habit of procrastination to decrease my efficiency, and if so, to what extent? 6. Have I improved my personality, and if so, in what ways? 7. Have I been persistent in following my plans through to completion? 8. Have I reached decisions promptly and definitely on all occasions? 9. Have I permitted anyone or more of the Six Basic Fears to decrease my efficiency? (See Appendix 1 for list of Six Basic Fears.) 10. Have I been either over-cautious, or under-cautious? 11. Has my relationship with my associates at work been pleasant, or unpleasant? If it has been unpleasant, has the fault been partly or wholly mine? 12. Have I dissipated any of my energy through lack of concentration of effort? 13. Have I been open-minded and tolerant in connection with all subjects? J 4. In what way have I improved my ability to render service? 15. Have I been intemperate in any of my habits? 16. Have I expressed, either openly or secretly, any form of egotism? 17. Has my conduct toward my associates been such that it has induced them to respect me? 18. Have my opinions and decisions been based upon guesswork, or on accuracy of analysis and thought? 19. Have I followed the habit of budgeting my time, my expenses, and my income, and have I been conservative in these budgets? 20. How much time have I devoted to unprofitable effort which I might have used to better advantage? 21. How may I rebudget my time, and change my habits so I will be more efficient during the coming year?
ORGANIZED PLANNING 71
22. Have I been guilty of any conduct which was not approved by my conscience? 23. In what ways have I rendered more service and better service than I was paid to render? 24. Have I been unfair to anyone, and if so, in what way? 25. If I had been the purchaser of my own services for the year, would I be satisfied with my purchase? 26. Am I in the right vocation, and if not, why not? 27. Has the purchaser of my services been satisfied with the service I have rendered, and if not, why not? 28. What is my present rating on the fundamental principles of success? (Make this rating fairly, and frankly, and have it checked by someone who is courageous enough to do it accurately.)
72
THE SIXTH
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
if if
if the if
if
decision was
list
if
the 30 major causes ojJailure. This is is a fact. mark disclosed the Jact
no mere statement
a theory-it
several hundred people who had accumulated of them had the habit
if
reaching decisions
if
they were changed. People who fail to accumulate money, without exception, have the habit
if
reaching decisions,
if at
all, vcry
Definiteness
of Decision
sions quickly and definitely, and changing them slowly. This quality is so pronounced in Mr. Ford that it has given him the reputation of being obstinate. It was this quality which prompted Mr. Ford to continue to manufacture his famous Model "T" (the world's ugliest car), when all of his advisors, and many of the purchasers of the car, were urging him to change it. Perhaps Mr. Ford delayed too long in making the change, but the other side of the story is that Mr. Ford's firmness of decision yielded a huge fortune, before the change in model became necessary. There is but little doubt that Mr. Ford's habit of definiteness of decision assumes the proportion ing them. of obstinacy, but this quality is preferable to slowness in reaching decisions and quickness in chang-
74
THE SEVENTH
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
Keep your own counsel when you begin to put into practice the principles described here, by reaching your own decisions and following them. Take no one into your confidence, except the members of your Master Mind group, and be very sure in your selection of this group that you choose only those who will be in complete sympathy and harmony with your purpose.
The majority
ifpeople
who Jail to
accumulate money sufficient Jar their Heeds are, generally, easily ilif/uenced by the "opin ions"
if
others. They permit the newspapers and the "gossiping" neighbors to do their "thinkillg"Jor thew. Opi nions are the cheapest
Close friends and relatives, while not meaning to do so, often handicap one through "opinions" and sometimes through ridicule, which is meant to be humorous. Thousands of men and women carry inferiority complexes with them all through life because some well-meaning but ignorant person destroyed their confidence through "opinions" or ridicule.
if opinions
ready to be by
opinions when you reach decisions, you will not succeed in any undertaking, niucli less in that
OIVIl
transmuting your You have a brain and mind of your own. Use it, and reach your own decisions. If you need factors or information from other people, to enable you to reach decisions, as you probably will in many instances, acquire these facts or secure the information you need quietly, without disclosing your purpose.
flloney.
desire into
will have 110
if you
opinions desire
if others, you
if your
What are three decisions you can make with confidence right now?
1.~~~~ 2.
3.~~~~
_ _
___
DECISION
75
The value of decisions depends upon the courage required to render them. The great decisions, which served as the foundation of civilization, were reached by assuming great risks, which often meant the possibility of death. Lincoln's decision to issue his famous Proclamation of Emancipation, which gave freedom to the colored people of America, was rendered with full understanding that his act would turn thousands of friends and political supporters against him. He knew, too, that the carrying out of that proclamation his life. That required courage. Socrates' decision to drink the cup of poison, rather than compromise in his personal belief, was a decision of courage. It turned time ahead a thousand years, and gave to people then unborn, speech. The decision of Gen. Robert E. Lee, when he came to the parting of the ways with the Union, and took up the cause of the South, was a decision of courage, for he well knew that it might cost him his own life, that it would surely cost the lives of others. But the greatest decision of all time, as far as any American citizen is concerned, was reached in Philadelphia, July 4, 1776, when fifty-six men signed their names to a document, which they well knew would bring freedom to all Americans, or leave everyone oj thefifty-six hangingjrom a gallows! the right to freedom of thought and of would mean death to thousands of men on the battlefield. In the end, it cost Lincoln
76
THE SEVENTH
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
Let one of your first decisions be to keep a closed mouth and open ears and eyes. As a reminder to yourself to follow this advice, it will be helpful if you copy the following epigram in large letters and place it where you will see it daily.
Remember
open your mouth in the preSCJlce if a person who has an abundance knowledge,
YOH
if
display to that
if it!
silence.
DECISION
77
~"="'~JiliJ'*,='==-'lD.~J.'"",'-"""'''-''''''''''.'';;''""",,""'~',-~",,,, __ ~d"_-~~~
~"',"~-~~To;~~.....__~;:;.,-ttr~"'-.-~~,~
-._--._=~~-- .. ~.~~~~~
==",_'I=':";;'W-"-'=-=-'-'-'-O:"""~"==:==--="-:-=~~
.u.:»
d-4
Persistence is an essential factor in the procedure of transmuting desire into its monetary equivalent. The basis power
of persistence
is the
if will.
and desire, when properly combined, make an
Will-power
irresistible pair. Men who accumulate great fortunes are generally known as cold-blooded, and sometimes ruthless. Often they are misunderstood. attainment The What they have is will-power, which they mix with persistence, and place back
of
if opposition
or
The secret is told in the struggle of Fannie Hurst, whose persistence conquered the Great White Way. She came to New York in 1915, to convert writing into riches. The conversation did not come quickly, but it came. Forfour years Miss Hurst learned about "The Sidewalks (if New York "from firsthand experience. She spent her days laboring, and her nights hoping. When hope grew dint, she did said, "Very well, Broadway, give up." One publisher (The Saturday Evening Post) sent her thirty-six other walks rejection slips bifore she "broke the ice" and got a story across.The average writer, like the "average" ill
YOll
flat
may whip some, but not me. I'm going to force you to
if life, would
have gillen up the job when the first rejection slip came. She
pounded the pavements forfour years to tile tune qf the publishers' "no," because she was determined to win. Theil came the "payoff.
JJ
The spell had been broken, the unseen Guide had tested
Fannie Hurst, and she could take it. From that time on, publishers made a beaten path to her door Money came sojast she hardly had time to count it. Then the moiling-picture men discovered her, and money came not in small change, out ill floods. The movingpicture rights to her latest novel, Great Laughter, brougtu S 100, 000. 00, said to be the highest price every paid for a story before publication. Briqfly, you have a description Hurst is
/10
if
if achieving.
Fannie
exception. rVhcl'ever men and women accumulate great riches, Yor! may be
80
THE EIGHTH
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
A TEST OF PERSISTENCE
If you are following this book with the intention of applying the knowledge it conveys, your first test as to your persistence will come when you begin to follow the six tasks described in the first chapter. Unless you are one of the two out of every hundred who already have a definite goal at which you are aiming, and a
I~"attract" H
definite plan for its attainment, you may read the instructions, and then pass on with your daily routine, and never comply with those instructions.
The author is checking you up at this point, because lack of persistence is one of the major causes of failure. Moreover, experience with thousands of people has proved that lack of persistence is a weakness common to the majority of men. It is a weakness which may be overcome by effort. The ease with which lack of persistence may be conquered will depend entirely upon the intensity of one's desire.
The starting point of all achievement is desire. Keep this constantly in mind. Weak desires bring weak results.just as a small amount of fire makes a small amount of heat. If you find yourself lacking in persistence, this weakness may be remedied by building a stronger fire under your desires.
Persistence
connection with the six tasks.
Exercise
to carry out the instructions given
t11
The eagerness with which you follow these instructions will indicate clearly how much, or how little, you really desire to accumulate money. If you find that you are indifferent, you may be sure that you have not yet acquired the "money consciousness" which you must possess before you can be sure of accumulating a fortune.
PERSISTENCE
81
Definite
Causes of Persistence
Persistence is a state of mind, therefore it can be cultivated. Like all states of mind, persistence is based upon definite causes, among them are: • Definiteness
r:ifpfllpose.
the most important step toward the development of persistence. A strong motive forces one to surmount many difficulties. " Desire. It is comparatively easy to acquire and to maintain persistence in pursuing the object of intense desire.
e
Self-reliallce. Belief in one's ability to carry out a plan encourages one to follow the plan through with persistence.
• Definiteness
r:ifplans.
entirely impractical, encourage persistence . .. Accurate kllowledge. Knowing that one's plans are sound, based upon experience or observation, encourages persistence; "guessing" instead of "knowing" destroys persistence . .. Cooperation.
e
others tend to develop persistence. Will-power. The habit of concentrating one's thoughts upon the building of plans for the attainment of a definite purpose leads to persistence . • Habit. Persistence is the direct result of habit. The mind absorbs and becomes a part of the daily experiences upon which it feeds. Fear, the worst of all enemies, can be effectively cured by forced repetition of acts of courage. Everyone who has seen active service in war knows this.
82
THE EIGHTH
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
SYMPTOMS
OF LACK OF PERSISTENCE
Take inventory of yourself, and determine in what particular way, if any, you are lacking in this essential quality. Measure yourself courageously, point by point, and see how many of the factors of persistence you lack. The analysis may lead to discoveries that will give you a new grip on yourself. Place a checle next to the ones that you identify with: D Failure to recognize and to clearly define exactly what one wants. D Procrastination, with or without cause (usually backed up with a formidable array of alibis and excuses). D Lack of interest in acquiring specialized knowledge. D Indecision, the habit of "passing the buck" on all occasions, instead oHacing issues squarely (also backed by alibis). D The habit of relying upon alibis instead of creating definite plans for the solution of problems.
Here you will find the real enemies which stand between you and noteworthy achievement. Here you !villfind not only the "symptoms" indicating weakness
ifpersistence,
hilt also the deeply seated subconscious causes of this weakness. Study the list carifully, and face yourself squarely and what you are capable
if you if doing.
really wish to know who you are, These are the weaknesses which must be mastered by all who accumulate riches.
o
o o o o
o o o
and no hope for those who suffer from it. Indifference, usually reflected in one's readiness to compromise on all occasions, rather than meet opposition and fight it. The habit of blaming others for one's mistakes, and accepting unfavorable circumstances as being unavoidable. Weakness of desire, due to neglect in the choice of motives that impel action. Willingness, even eagerness, to quit at the first sign of defeat (based upon one or more of the Six Basic Fears). Lack of organized plans, placed in writing where they may be analyzed. The habit of neglecting to move on ideas, or to grasp opportunity when it presents itself. Wishing instead of willing. The habit of compromising with poverty instead of aiming at riches. General absence of ambition to be, to do, and to own. Searching for all the shortcuts to riches, trying to get without giving a fair equivalent, usually reflected in the habit of gambling, endeavoring to drive "sharp" bargains. Fear of criticism, failure to create plans and to put them into action, because of what other people will think, do, or say.This enemy belongs at the head of the list, because it generally exists in one's subconscious mind, where its presence is not recognized.
PERSISTENCE 83
When Andrew Carnegie suggested that I devote twenty years to the organization of a philosophy of individual achievement my first impulse of thought was fear of what people might say. The suggestion set up a goal for me, far out of proportion to any I had ever conceived. As quick as a flash, my mind began to create alibis and excuses, all of them traceable to the inherent fear of criticism. Something inside of me said, "You can't do it-the requires too much time-what earn a living?-no job is too big and will your relatives think of you?-h ow will you are you, anyway, to aim so high?hasn't some other person done
one has ever organized a philosophy of success, what right do you know about philosophy-people
have you to believe you can do it?-who remember your humble birth-what will think you are crazy-(and this before now?"
they did)-why
These, and many other questions flashed into my mind, and demanded attention. It seemed as if the whole world had suddenly turned its attention to me with the purpose of ridiculing me into giving up all desire to carry out Mr. Carnegie's suggestion. I had a fine opportunity, then and there, to kill off ambition before it gained contra] of me. Later in life, after having analyzed thousands of people, I discovered that most ideas are stillborn, and need the breath of life injected into them through definite plans of immediate action. The time to nurse an idea is at the time of its birth. Every minute it lives gives it a better chance of surviving.The fear of criticism is at the bottom of the destruction of most ideas which never reach the planning and action stage.
84
THE EIGHTH
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
There are four simple steps which lead to the habit of persistence. They call for no great amount of intelligence, no particular amount of education, and but little time or effort. The necessary steps are:
n n
The only "break" anyone can to rely upon is a self-made "break." These come through the application of persistence. The starting point is definiteness purpose.
I~ qfford
II I'
n
II u
r:if
A. A definite purpose backed by burning desire for its fulfillment. My definite purpose is: _
C. A mind closed tightly against all negative and discouraging influences, including negative suggestions of relatives, friends, and acquaintances.
D. A friendly alliance with one or more persons who will encourage one to follow through with both plan and purpose. The people who encourage me are: _
These four steps are essential for success in all walks of life. The entire purpose of the thirteen principles of this philosophy is to enable one to take these four steps as a matter of habit.
PERSISTENCE
85
These are the steps by which one may control one's economic destiny. They are the steps that lead to freedom and independence They lead the way to power fame, and worldly recognition. They are the Jour steps which guarantee Javorable "breaks. " T71ey are the steps that convert dreams into physical realities. They lead, also, to the mastery privilege is asked.
if thought.
They are the steps that lead to riches, in small or great quantities.
ifjea"
discouragement, indifference.
There is a magnificent reward Jor all who learn to take these Jour steps. It is the
if writing
if making
86
THE EIGHTH
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
_''JJ»='=~Q'~'''''''.'''''''''''-'-''''o::._==",",==~='''''-===
~_~~~-==~~·~<i.oFI+c.-;J
~--''''-,-=
if money.
Plans are inert and useless without sufficient power to translate Power may be defined as "OIganized and intelligently directed knowledge. " Power, as the term is here used, rifers to organized rjfort, sufficient to enable an individual to transmute desire into its monetary equivalent. Organized rjfOl't is produced through the coordination definite end, in a spirit
Power is required for the accumulation is necessary Jar the retention accumulated!
If power is "organized knowledge," let us examine the sources of knowledge: A. It!fillite intelligence. This source of knowledge may be contacted through the procedure described in another chapter, with the aid of Creative Imagination. B. Accumulated experience. The accumulated experience of man (or that portion of it which has been organized and recorded) may be found in any wellequipped public library. An important part of this accumulated experience is taught in public schools and colleges, where it has been classified and organized. C. Experiment and research. In the field of science, and in practically every other
[,1CtS
walk of life, men are gathering, classifying, and organizing new through "accumulated must often be used.
daily.
This is the source to which one must turn when knowledge is not available experience." Here, too, the Creative Imagination
Knowledge may be acquired from any of the foregoing sources. It may be converted into power by organizing it into definite plans and by expressing those plans in terms of action. Examination of the three major sources of knowledge will readily disclose the difficulty an individual would have, if he depended upon his efforts alone, in assembling knowledge and expressing it through definite plans in terms of action. If his plans are comprehensive, and if they contemplate large proportions, he must, generally, induce others to cooperate with him, before he can inject into them the necessary element of power.
88
THE NINTH
STEP TOWARD
RICHES
No individual may have great power without availing himself of the Master Mind. In a preceding step, instructions were given for the creation of plans for the purpose of translating desire into its monetary equivalent.
Men take on the nature and the habits and the power
if thOllght
Refer back to your Master Mind list. Place the names of the people who you have chosen to be in your Master Mind group. Add to each name the success benefits they have brought to you to date (i.e., passion, vision, contacts, capital, etc.). Nanle: Success benefit: Nanle: Success benefit: Name: Success benefit: Nanle: Success benefit: Nanle: Success benefit: Nanle: Success benefit: What qualities that you need in a Master Mind partner are still missing? _ ~ _ ~ _ ~ _ ~ _ ~ _ ~
Who embodying this quality might be a good addition to your Master Mind group?
POWER
OF THE MASTER
MIND
89
10
if the word
changing, or traniferring oj one element, or form The emotion of sex brings into being a state transmutation means the switching
if the
if
physical expression to thoughts oj some other nature. Sex desire is the most powefu!
if human
desires. Whm
if imagination,
to and reputation
courage, will-power, persistence, and creative ability unknown sexual contact that men freely run the risk this motivatingJorce maintains all
if life
imagination, courage, etc., which may be used as poweiful creative forces in literature, art, or in any other profession or calling, including,
if course, the
accumulation