Mindset · 1937
Think and Grow Rich
by Napoleon Hill
A classic on turning burning desire into achievement through thought and persistence.
10 min read
The big picture
Based on Hill's study of hundreds of successful people, this classic presents a philosophy of achievement. It holds that what the mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve, when backed by a definite plan and relentless action.
Five key ideas
- 1
Start with a burning desire
Vague wishes don't work. Define exactly what you want, set a date, and decide what you will give in return.
- 2
Faith and autosuggestion
Repeating your goals with conviction trains your mind to focus on them and to spot opportunities.
- 3
Specialized knowledge
General knowledge isn't enough. Build skills in a defined area, and keep learning.
- 4
The mastermind
Surround yourself with people who share your ambition. A group working in harmony multiplies each person's ability.
- 5
Persistence beats setbacks
Most who fail quit just before the breakthrough. Make persistence a habit, not a mood.
Put it into practice
- Write your major goal, the deadline, and the exact plan, and read it every morning and night.
- Form a small accountability group that meets weekly.
- When you hit a wall, define the next smallest step and take it today.
Who should read it
Readers who want motivation and a foundational success philosophy.
How to apply it in daily life
Morning
Read your written goal aloud, with the amount and the date.
During the day
Take one concrete step toward the goal, however small.
Evening
Picture the goal achieved for two minutes before sleep.
Next summary
The Power of Now