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How to Own Your Own Mind
Locked in a vault since 1941, here is Napoleon Hill's definitive lesson on how to organize your thinking to attain success!
A master class on how to think for success from the motivational hero of the twentieth century and author of Think and Grow Rich. In three compelling chapters, Hill offers a program in how to organize, prioritize, and act on information so that it translates into opportunity.
Knowledge is NOT power. Only APPLIED knowledge is power. This book teaches you how to use what you know, and how to know what's worth knowing.
A master class on how to think for success from the motivational hero of the twentieth century and author of Think and Grow Rich. In three compelling chapters, Hill offers a program in how to organize, prioritize, and act on information so that it translates into opportunity.
Knowledge is NOT power. Only APPLIED knowledge is power. This book teaches you how to use what you know, and how to know what's worth knowing.
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Published September 19, 2017
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About the author
Napoleon Hill
1,870 books5,392 followersOliver Napoleon Hill was an American self-help author and conman. He is best known for his book Think and Grow Rich (1937), which is among the best-selling self-help books of all time. Hill's works insisted that fervid expectations are essential to improving one's life. Most of his books were promoted as expounding principles to achieve "success".
Hill is a controversial figure. Accused of fraud, modern historians also doubt many of his claims, such as that he met Andrew Carnegie and that he was an attorney.
Hill is a controversial figure. Accused of fraud, modern historians also doubt many of his claims, such as that he met Andrew Carnegie and that he was an attorney.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
March 28, 2020
This is one of the most important book which actually helps us to understand the way we should process our mind...
This book consists of three main chapters:
1. Creative vision
2.Organised thoughts
3.Controlled Attention
It explains the difference between imagination and creative vision and how our mind become desperate to find solutions of problems if we are persistent. Andrew Carnegie quoted "Creative imagination is the workshop of soul."
Andrew Carnegie also gives 10 principles through which we can achieve our definite purpose.
Organised thoughts are important to achieve the major purpose. He explains that Controlled habits are the basis of organised thinking. Andrew Carnegie explains organized thoughts by three charts which make us understand that how we need to organize our mind to find the solution.
Lastly in controlled attention explains how can we combine all the faculties of mind and concentrate upon attaining the definate purpose.
In this book there are numerous examples which helps us to understand how people followed a simple methods and invented as well as discovered huge things...
How a simple imagination can be turned into huge success.
This book is worth reading and it is really helpful.
I would highly recommend to read this book.
This book consists of three main chapters:
1. Creative vision
2.Organised thoughts
3.Controlled Attention
It explains the difference between imagination and creative vision and how our mind become desperate to find solutions of problems if we are persistent. Andrew Carnegie quoted "Creative imagination is the workshop of soul."
Andrew Carnegie also gives 10 principles through which we can achieve our definite purpose.
Organised thoughts are important to achieve the major purpose. He explains that Controlled habits are the basis of organised thinking. Andrew Carnegie explains organized thoughts by three charts which make us understand that how we need to organize our mind to find the solution.
Lastly in controlled attention explains how can we combine all the faculties of mind and concentrate upon attaining the definate purpose.
In this book there are numerous examples which helps us to understand how people followed a simple methods and invented as well as discovered huge things...
How a simple imagination can be turned into huge success.
This book is worth reading and it is really helpful.
I would highly recommend to read this book.
November 18, 2019
Interview Style is highly unnecessary and hard to read. Key points can be boiled down to some major statements which include:
Do not waste time thinking of how to do something, take action and do it.
Focus 100% on the things you are pursuing
Man is not a creature of circumstances but rather the creator of those
Do not waste time thinking of how to do something, take action and do it.
Focus 100% on the things you are pursuing
Man is not a creature of circumstances but rather the creator of those
November 16, 2020
Fake conversations written by a scammer, pedaling an early version of think rich mentality all our modern scammers are. It’s a shame people actually look up to this guy.. he went around stealing and getting girls pregnant left and right, cheating on his wives, getting married five times. No thanks, I’ll take my advice from someone else.
March 30, 2018
My Recommendation: If you're interested in the history of American industrialism or the self-help genre this is definitely a must read, if you're not interested in those specifics, only look at the pages with lists on them because they are sound and you don't get bogged down in the writing and the weirdly formal call and response interviews between Hill and Carnegie. As a final note, I want to reiterate that I feel like more could be done by the publisher or the foundation to better place this in a historical context. Green does a decent job in the introduction, but I feel like it's glossed over and an analysis at the end of the book would be super beneficial.
My Response: Starting this book felt like I opened a door mid-conversation almost a century ago. Behind it were two gentleman sitting in a preserved gentleman's lounge or office. I could almost smell the old leather furniture and the faint scent of cigars and I could see the wood paneling vividly as the two men leaned in to confer about titans of industry. And this is the problem with The Mental Dynamite series.
When I got my copy from the publisher*, I wasn't sure I was going to read it. After the first book, The Path to Personal Power , and my not great reaction to it, I wasn't sure I wanted to trudge through the racist, misogynist, heterosexist past. It's not like they went out of their way to be these things and I'm not excusing them, but it's rough to read.
Click here to continue reading on my blog The Oddness of Moving Things.
*I received a copy of How to Own Your Own Mind from the publisher in return for my honest opinion. No goods or cash were received.
My Response: Starting this book felt like I opened a door mid-conversation almost a century ago. Behind it were two gentleman sitting in a preserved gentleman's lounge or office. I could almost smell the old leather furniture and the faint scent of cigars and I could see the wood paneling vividly as the two men leaned in to confer about titans of industry. And this is the problem with The Mental Dynamite series.
When I got my copy from the publisher*, I wasn't sure I was going to read it. After the first book, The Path to Personal Power , and my not great reaction to it, I wasn't sure I wanted to trudge through the racist, misogynist, heterosexist past. It's not like they went out of their way to be these things and I'm not excusing them, but it's rough to read.
Click here to continue reading on my blog The Oddness of Moving Things.
*I received a copy of How to Own Your Own Mind from the publisher in return for my honest opinion. No goods or cash were received.
December 8, 2019
Certainly one of the best inspirational books I have read so far. Message albeit repeated lots of times are certainly true and sound. Whilst the American way was preached in ways I personally do not agree with, I believe there was also a motive for such preaching by these men (Carnegie & Napoleon).
But asides my deciphering these motives as well as the repetitions of the lessons/messages, this is no doubt a great book!
And by the way messages were very Ayn Rand and I see where she gets her ideas from.
But asides my deciphering these motives as well as the repetitions of the lessons/messages, this is no doubt a great book!
And by the way messages were very Ayn Rand and I see where she gets her ideas from.
February 2, 2019
All of the charlatans and self-help gurus from Jordan Peterson to Tony Robbins are just a reflection of Napoleon Hill, which is sad because Hill isn't all that profound. The short of it is that to succeed in the enterprise, one must focus entirely on that enterprise. So I this way, it is the exact opposite of the advice one would get about intelligent investing in securities, that is not to put all eggs in one basket. Basically be John Wick for whatever you do.
The book is broken down between interviews with Andrew Carnegie, where Hill is embarrassingly obsequious, or perhaps the conversation was highly stylized. Basically, Hill diffidently asks a question about business success to Carnegie, then Carnegie explains the principle, and Hill reiterates the principle, and Carnegie affirms the correctness of Hills restatement.
Other recommendations to build success includes constructing your mastermind, another concept brazenly yoinked self-help gurus of today. Basically choosing your associates wisely and those with similar trajectories as you. Some of the other recommendations get comically evangelical, like the power of prayer, the strength of belief, and destiny etc. Though the connection between evangelicalism and self-help success gurus is not an unknown one. One can also see shades of Trump's worldview from these writings, as he attended a "church" in NYC in his youth that was basically Napoleon Hill + pews.
There's some value here, maybe an hours worth as the business case studies are too one-sided and old (Edison electric, radio companies) to be anything more than interesting trivia. Conditional recommend if you have nothing else to read
The book is broken down between interviews with Andrew Carnegie, where Hill is embarrassingly obsequious, or perhaps the conversation was highly stylized. Basically, Hill diffidently asks a question about business success to Carnegie, then Carnegie explains the principle, and Hill reiterates the principle, and Carnegie affirms the correctness of Hills restatement.
Other recommendations to build success includes constructing your mastermind, another concept brazenly yoinked self-help gurus of today. Basically choosing your associates wisely and those with similar trajectories as you. Some of the other recommendations get comically evangelical, like the power of prayer, the strength of belief, and destiny etc. Though the connection between evangelicalism and self-help success gurus is not an unknown one. One can also see shades of Trump's worldview from these writings, as he attended a "church" in NYC in his youth that was basically Napoleon Hill + pews.
There's some value here, maybe an hours worth as the business case studies are too one-sided and old (Edison electric, radio companies) to be anything more than interesting trivia. Conditional recommend if you have nothing else to read
May 21, 2024
The book is written in interview style and basically boils down to: Find your purpose in life for which you literally “burn”, then focus all your attention on it (i.e. all eggs in one basket) and then you will find all the power needed to reach your goal.
While the book does not explicitly touch any spiritual topics, it makes references to the often needed secret ingredient which comes from a “higher power” that will support us on our way to achieving these goals.
An inspirational read. Reminded me to stay 100% committed and focused on my path! Thanks for that.
While the book does not explicitly touch any spiritual topics, it makes references to the often needed secret ingredient which comes from a “higher power” that will support us on our way to achieving these goals.
An inspirational read. Reminded me to stay 100% committed and focused on my path! Thanks for that.
January 3, 2021
Everyone should read this book (along with LAW OF SUCCESS) and study it over and over.
April 28, 2023
Some quotes:
Controlled attention
Definiteness of purpose
Applied faith
Power of vision
Effective communication
Controlled attention burns a hole straight through the heart of the naughtiest of problems If one places in back of it a determined will. And it keeps on until it liquidates what is left around the hole.
A man should have a multiple track mind for the accumulation of knowledge, but a single track mind for the expression of that knowledge.
Concentrate your general knowledge upon a specific and definite purpose.
A man is paid for what he does or that which he can influence others to do.
Instead of worrying about problems, focus attention on them to burn a hole through them and find a solution.
Controlled attention
Definiteness of purpose
Applied faith
Power of vision
Effective communication
Controlled attention burns a hole straight through the heart of the naughtiest of problems If one places in back of it a determined will. And it keeps on until it liquidates what is left around the hole.
A man should have a multiple track mind for the accumulation of knowledge, but a single track mind for the expression of that knowledge.
Concentrate your general knowledge upon a specific and definite purpose.
A man is paid for what he does or that which he can influence others to do.
Instead of worrying about problems, focus attention on them to burn a hole through them and find a solution.
January 16, 2019
"How to own your mind" by Napoleon Hill had a good idea that could be exploited more if done right. I've been reading a lot of self-help genre lately, and a lot of books stretched its concept out into many chapters. The book has a reliable method for the readers to utilize that it has an ancient way of approaching the audience. I think the book would be much better if the author were to trim the writing down only to the main ideas and get straight to the point. I was only able to go to a little bit more than half of the book.
May 8, 2022
american capitalist garbage
March 9, 2024
This one did not endure the test of time. Outdated, not helpful.
October 4, 2022
Ugh. Outdated &, honestly unhelpful and reflective of a society left in the past.
February 3, 2021
First things first. This book is not for everyone. It is written by a rich white man based on supposed interviews with another rich white man and includes lots and lots of references to other rich white men. If privileged white men give you heartburn that you cannot get past, then do not bother. This is very much of privilege and patriarchy.
On a second (more personal note) the author uses the history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (From here on out referred to as LDS). I am not of the LDS church but have been lucky enough to have met many who are going all the way back to my childhood. Most have been very good people, and some have become very dear to me. I do not know what the author has written will be offensive to them (it is not intended to be) but I hope not.
In order to understand “How to Own Your Own Mind” it is important to grasp that it is a religious text. I do not mean that it is intended to draw people away from their own religious values, but rather is a religious overlay to put on whatever values one has. By “religious” I mean that it asks one to accept things based on faith, rather than proof, that it has mystic elements, and that it is a prescription for organizing one's life.
It has a god figure (Carnegie) a prophet who interprets the god’s teachings (Hill) and even a stand-in for the holy spirit (the Infinite Intelligence). Like other religious texts, it has much that is useful for the person who wishes to more effectively govern themselves and their own lives. It gives sound guidance on how to organize one’s effort and achieve one’s goals. Also like any religious text, it has no place in the governing of a free society. When one reads from the book and thinks “this is something that I should apply to my own life” that is a good thing. When someone reads something and thinks “this is something that others should be required to apply to their lives,” it is not. In particular, if one finds oneself thinking “that is what poor (or other groups) folks ought to do,” they are on a very bad path.
If the interviews that the book is purportedly based on ever happened, (and I have no reason to suspect they did not) I find it unimaginable that the transcripts in the book are accurate. Simply put no one thinks or talks that way (in complete sentences, paragraphs and short chapters.) I am not sure that it is important for us to believe that they did. It is much better to think of this the way one thinks of the writings of Plato, or The Art of War. Rather than being seen as an authentic literal report of what someone said, they are amalgamations intended to reflect the general philosophy of the source, and may well include the author's bias.
If we see the book in the light of what I have said above, it can be digested most effectively and the maximum benefit can be derived. A reader who is looking for a framework to become a more dynamic and effective actor in the world will find it in the book's description of how to organize one's thoughts, and particularly in the emphasis on taking thoughtful action without unneeded delay. For the reader trying to find ways to overcome roadblocks on the path of their lives, reading, understanding, and practicing the ideas and techniques in this book will be immensely helpful. It hammers home one point that I have always believed. While our system makes wealth much harder to attain for some than others, within the context of where a person starts, the key to making wealth is to seek it above all else. It is worth noting, however, that the author considers the pursuit of wealth for its own sake to not be a worthwhile endeavor.
I think that Chapter Two on organized thinking is particularly helpful. While the structure it provides is a subjective creation and more based on one person’s views than any science, if used carefully and studied until understood, it seems to me it would be quite effective.
An odd digression on prayer in chapter three is a bit jarring but has some merit as long as it is not taken as an endorsement of any one type of prayer over others. (to the author's credit he makes this point himself.) While I have no idea if Hill spent any time investigating eastern belief systems, I cannot help but note that many of the techniques he espouses for organizing the mind, fit quite well into a book on Buddhism that I recently read.
I guess to put it all in a few short sentences. This work has a lot of problems that the reader will need to either overcome or be able to ignore. If misused it could justify a very self-centered approach to life and the world. All that being said, if a reader has the time to dedicate to it, it contains ideas and information that may be generally useful.
On a second (more personal note) the author uses the history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (From here on out referred to as LDS). I am not of the LDS church but have been lucky enough to have met many who are going all the way back to my childhood. Most have been very good people, and some have become very dear to me. I do not know what the author has written will be offensive to them (it is not intended to be) but I hope not.
In order to understand “How to Own Your Own Mind” it is important to grasp that it is a religious text. I do not mean that it is intended to draw people away from their own religious values, but rather is a religious overlay to put on whatever values one has. By “religious” I mean that it asks one to accept things based on faith, rather than proof, that it has mystic elements, and that it is a prescription for organizing one's life.
It has a god figure (Carnegie) a prophet who interprets the god’s teachings (Hill) and even a stand-in for the holy spirit (the Infinite Intelligence). Like other religious texts, it has much that is useful for the person who wishes to more effectively govern themselves and their own lives. It gives sound guidance on how to organize one’s effort and achieve one’s goals. Also like any religious text, it has no place in the governing of a free society. When one reads from the book and thinks “this is something that I should apply to my own life” that is a good thing. When someone reads something and thinks “this is something that others should be required to apply to their lives,” it is not. In particular, if one finds oneself thinking “that is what poor (or other groups) folks ought to do,” they are on a very bad path.
If the interviews that the book is purportedly based on ever happened, (and I have no reason to suspect they did not) I find it unimaginable that the transcripts in the book are accurate. Simply put no one thinks or talks that way (in complete sentences, paragraphs and short chapters.) I am not sure that it is important for us to believe that they did. It is much better to think of this the way one thinks of the writings of Plato, or The Art of War. Rather than being seen as an authentic literal report of what someone said, they are amalgamations intended to reflect the general philosophy of the source, and may well include the author's bias.
If we see the book in the light of what I have said above, it can be digested most effectively and the maximum benefit can be derived. A reader who is looking for a framework to become a more dynamic and effective actor in the world will find it in the book's description of how to organize one's thoughts, and particularly in the emphasis on taking thoughtful action without unneeded delay. For the reader trying to find ways to overcome roadblocks on the path of their lives, reading, understanding, and practicing the ideas and techniques in this book will be immensely helpful. It hammers home one point that I have always believed. While our system makes wealth much harder to attain for some than others, within the context of where a person starts, the key to making wealth is to seek it above all else. It is worth noting, however, that the author considers the pursuit of wealth for its own sake to not be a worthwhile endeavor.
I think that Chapter Two on organized thinking is particularly helpful. While the structure it provides is a subjective creation and more based on one person’s views than any science, if used carefully and studied until understood, it seems to me it would be quite effective.
An odd digression on prayer in chapter three is a bit jarring but has some merit as long as it is not taken as an endorsement of any one type of prayer over others. (to the author's credit he makes this point himself.) While I have no idea if Hill spent any time investigating eastern belief systems, I cannot help but note that many of the techniques he espouses for organizing the mind, fit quite well into a book on Buddhism that I recently read.
I guess to put it all in a few short sentences. This work has a lot of problems that the reader will need to either overcome or be able to ignore. If misused it could justify a very self-centered approach to life and the world. All that being said, if a reader has the time to dedicate to it, it contains ideas and information that may be generally useful.
August 8, 2022
It’s very interesting from a historical perspective, but this book is very aggressive American capitalism propaganda (just as a warning)
May 5, 2025
While it had many great moments of wisdom, it was clearly biased and written for a population of people who could best partake of the spoils of the “American way of life”.
February 27, 2022
Owning your distinct mind is perhaps the most difficult strength to acquire but the mightiest of them all.
Questioning everything as a curious child is as needed as it was at the elementary level, true humility is to remain grounded even if you have climbed the tallest ladder. Being a great listener puts you even more in charge of your pattern.
Power of will, faculty of reason, and faculty of conscience are a triad. Thoughts are processed to their finest if transitioned through all of them. Never a person have been more powerful if they have realized the collective of all their sensory experiences - audible books for example are a game-changer for those who are slow readers, you can still obtain information and fast forward too to your liking.
Thoughts can be captives of fear, that's how we come across liberation of ideas if geographical displacements occur - personality shifts come about especially if environments are conducive. "Birds of a feather flock together" has never been more apt. If you wish to interpret information step ahead or step back to allow your subjective experience to funnel through. Dissociate from your regular peers and diversify the pool of brainstorming.
A "potential thinker" is usually shunned for an apparent reason, he just won't fit in. Social heredity is a design to enslave or worse, ostracize.
Not to offend but the book is on point with constrained schooling arrangements, newspaper information and media propagated schemes - imagine a generation liberated from these sources and thinking for themselves.
Even while reflecting on religious convictions, a carefully thought out design has not been formulated because the pass down of information and assurance of its authenticity is engraved in our communities, no one questions who, how, why, or what in these sensitive areas to not disturb status quo.
The emotional quotient has been extremely underrated, its application in the current time is far more productive than the intelligence quotient. EQ qualifies a person for group-based thinking and IQ only caters to personal achievement, if it hasn't been stressed enough that united we stand divided we go so far. The strength of future leaders lies in high EQs.
Personal association is the foundation stone for the transfer of valuable information, if you can't attain it from someone and can't contribute as a return (two-way street) you are partaking in a "standstill". Personality, attitude, and philosophy all can be passed on.
The success that blindfolds a person to his source of inspiration, is a fluke. One must not lose sight of the energy drive or spiritual compass for continued success.
The biggest takeout is that we are masters of our fate, having said it the book is a constructive uplift for anyone who has been made to feel average by the standards set by egoistic minds that don't allow thinking out of the box. It also connects and makes an assembly out of the miraculousness of every individual human mind and it's distinguished place in the grand scheme of events - how can you make a difference when sorting a jigsaw puzzle. How can you decipher happenings with the power of your mind and how do you wish to not lose your individuality in the process of comparison. Basically, what can YOU do for the world 🌎 if every mind was engineered to be the "leader" of their own life.
Questioning everything as a curious child is as needed as it was at the elementary level, true humility is to remain grounded even if you have climbed the tallest ladder. Being a great listener puts you even more in charge of your pattern.
Power of will, faculty of reason, and faculty of conscience are a triad. Thoughts are processed to their finest if transitioned through all of them. Never a person have been more powerful if they have realized the collective of all their sensory experiences - audible books for example are a game-changer for those who are slow readers, you can still obtain information and fast forward too to your liking.
Thoughts can be captives of fear, that's how we come across liberation of ideas if geographical displacements occur - personality shifts come about especially if environments are conducive. "Birds of a feather flock together" has never been more apt. If you wish to interpret information step ahead or step back to allow your subjective experience to funnel through. Dissociate from your regular peers and diversify the pool of brainstorming.
A "potential thinker" is usually shunned for an apparent reason, he just won't fit in. Social heredity is a design to enslave or worse, ostracize.
Not to offend but the book is on point with constrained schooling arrangements, newspaper information and media propagated schemes - imagine a generation liberated from these sources and thinking for themselves.
Even while reflecting on religious convictions, a carefully thought out design has not been formulated because the pass down of information and assurance of its authenticity is engraved in our communities, no one questions who, how, why, or what in these sensitive areas to not disturb status quo.
The emotional quotient has been extremely underrated, its application in the current time is far more productive than the intelligence quotient. EQ qualifies a person for group-based thinking and IQ only caters to personal achievement, if it hasn't been stressed enough that united we stand divided we go so far. The strength of future leaders lies in high EQs.
Personal association is the foundation stone for the transfer of valuable information, if you can't attain it from someone and can't contribute as a return (two-way street) you are partaking in a "standstill". Personality, attitude, and philosophy all can be passed on.
The success that blindfolds a person to his source of inspiration, is a fluke. One must not lose sight of the energy drive or spiritual compass for continued success.
The biggest takeout is that we are masters of our fate, having said it the book is a constructive uplift for anyone who has been made to feel average by the standards set by egoistic minds that don't allow thinking out of the box. It also connects and makes an assembly out of the miraculousness of every individual human mind and it's distinguished place in the grand scheme of events - how can you make a difference when sorting a jigsaw puzzle. How can you decipher happenings with the power of your mind and how do you wish to not lose your individuality in the process of comparison. Basically, what can YOU do for the world 🌎 if every mind was engineered to be the "leader" of their own life.
April 17, 2021
This was an excellent book. Where Napoleon Hill is interviewing Andrew Carnegie. The main premise/takeaway is that controlled attention is one of the major keys for success. For example Carnegie was absolutely focused when he created the Saturday Evening Post and that led to a successful newspaper. Leading up to creation there was many reasons to quit and it was only his focused attention that made it happen. He goes on to explain how the definiteness of purpose and controlled, singular attention on a goal often leads to success. He argues that we are not designed to focus on more than one thing at a time. Narrow your focus and attention. on one individual thing and watch your success grow. The big point of the book is that the mind is the most powerful thing, yet so few use it properly. To put it in perspective, even if you are restrained in prison, you can have control over what you think. Carnegie talked about how using your synthetic imagination and creativity helps reinvent industries with no new inventions. He mentioned beds on trains, refrigerators on delivery trucks to name a few. He talked about how an insurance salesman made a sale of a policy to a shrewd lawyer who didn’t get a policy despite several attempts by other capable salesmen. He set up a newspaper add which he showed him and appealed to his desire of the story being published. He got the sale quickly, although it took him hours to set up. The American govt and system promotes people to pursue their definite purpose with the goal of reaching their full potential for opportunity. Take away that system, or drastically alter it and it could be disastrous. One of the most important principles and things to focus on for success is to become a person that people know and trust to do business with. The interpersonal nature of success cannot be ignored. Being on good terms with people and being able to communicate well with people is key. - I was reminded of how men of creative vision should be encouraged. The interview with Carnegie was early 1900’s where he foretold how and when the ideas would likely gain an audience. It was very accurate as the information became more relevant in the 20’s during the Great Depression. He explained simple truths that still ring correct today over 100 years later. - Creative vision is the key to all industries. Taking time in your own mind to explore what you want to do and how to do it is key. Carnegie explained the story of a life insurance salesman who found one significant person to sell life insurance to, instead of doing lots of work work little policies. The man ended up selling the largest life insurance policy of himself and his peers and it was easy. Some of the explanations in the book remind me of Principle of Least Time and The Principle of Least Action where you find an effective way to get stuff done efficiently. - The definiteness of purpose is powerful. Once you truly make up your mind on achieving something it will happen. He talked about Thomas A. Edison and how he started out determined to make a hearing aid for his wife which eventually became the telephone. He talked about Abraham Lincoln and how he had an indomitable will. He described his mind the following way: “I am slow to learn and slow to forget that which I have learned. My mind is like a piece of steel, very hard to scratch any thing on it and almost impossible after you get it there to rub it out.” I thought of this like a CyberTruck of thought. The book covered the importance and power of prayer, but said you don’t need words. It’s not about what you say, but the tapping into the power of infinite intelligence. He had some good visual explanations of ideas such as "The power with which we think is “mental dynamite,” and it can be organized and used constructively for the attainment of definite ends. If it is not organized and used through controlled habits, it may become a “mental explosive” that will literally blast one’s hopes of achievement and lead to inevitable failure." "Yes, and I might add that the wise man never wastes his time with anyone from whom he cannot acquire benefits or to whom he cannot contribute something worthwhile in one form or another." "Every word a man speaks, every word spoken in his presence, every thought a man thinks, modifies his thinking habits in one way or another.""YOU MAY have everything you desire if you desire it badly enough to inspire you to keep your mind fixed on its attainment." Creative Imagination has its source, as far as science has been able to determine, in the subconscious mind, wherein exists, through some power unknown to science, the ability to perceive and interpret new ideas."Here enters one of the more important of the principles of individual achievement, the principle of Going the Extra Mile. I have never heard of anyone changing from poverty to riches without applying this principle, and doing it as a matter of habit."
"Place all your eggs in one basket: then watch the basket closely to see that no one kicks it over.” By that he meant, of course, to concentrate all of one’s attention upon a single Definite Major Purpose."
“Creative Vision,” as we are here using it, by explaining that this is not merely another name for imagination. It is the ability to recognize opportunities and take action to benefit from them."
Talking about Henry Ford he said "Mr. Ford was motivated by a definite purpose which is the first step in all individual achievements. He stimulated his purpose into an obsession, concentrating his thoughts upon it. He converted his purpose into definite plans through the principle of organized individual endeavor and put his plans into action with unabated persistence. He made use of the mastermind principle, first by the council of his wife, second by talking with others who had experimented with the internal combustion engine and later when dealing with manufacturing and sales he allied with the Dodge brothers to learn from them. Back of all this effort was the power of applied faith acquired with his intense desire for achievement in connection with his definite, major purpose. Summarized briefly, Mr Fords success was due to adopting a definite, major purpose, which he fanned into a white heat flame of obsession, this leading to the stimulation of both the faculties of synthetic imagination and creative imagination. The part of the story that should be emphasized is the Mr. Ford moved with persistence. He met with one form of defeat or another all which required to be met with persistence and determination. He owes his success to knowing exactly what he wants and the capacity to stand by what he wants with unrelenting persistence. If one single quality stands out in Ford, it’s his quality of persistence. Definiteness of purpose, backed by a persistence is the greatest of all stimulants for both the creative and synthetic imagination. Motive is the beginning of all desires. This is an excellent book that I learned a great deal from. You can't go wrong reading classics like this and any Napoleon Hill work you read will make you better.
"Place all your eggs in one basket: then watch the basket closely to see that no one kicks it over.” By that he meant, of course, to concentrate all of one’s attention upon a single Definite Major Purpose."
“Creative Vision,” as we are here using it, by explaining that this is not merely another name for imagination. It is the ability to recognize opportunities and take action to benefit from them."
Talking about Henry Ford he said "Mr. Ford was motivated by a definite purpose which is the first step in all individual achievements. He stimulated his purpose into an obsession, concentrating his thoughts upon it. He converted his purpose into definite plans through the principle of organized individual endeavor and put his plans into action with unabated persistence. He made use of the mastermind principle, first by the council of his wife, second by talking with others who had experimented with the internal combustion engine and later when dealing with manufacturing and sales he allied with the Dodge brothers to learn from them. Back of all this effort was the power of applied faith acquired with his intense desire for achievement in connection with his definite, major purpose. Summarized briefly, Mr Fords success was due to adopting a definite, major purpose, which he fanned into a white heat flame of obsession, this leading to the stimulation of both the faculties of synthetic imagination and creative imagination. The part of the story that should be emphasized is the Mr. Ford moved with persistence. He met with one form of defeat or another all which required to be met with persistence and determination. He owes his success to knowing exactly what he wants and the capacity to stand by what he wants with unrelenting persistence. If one single quality stands out in Ford, it’s his quality of persistence. Definiteness of purpose, backed by a persistence is the greatest of all stimulants for both the creative and synthetic imagination. Motive is the beginning of all desires. This is an excellent book that I learned a great deal from. You can't go wrong reading classics like this and any Napoleon Hill work you read will make you better.
September 9, 2023
Hard to believe this book has such high ratings and is recommended by others. I found it to be of little use. The interview style is unnecessary and a bit off-putting. The limited insights into "controlled attention" which he believes is the secret to a human's success in life is almost laughable. His message is to "Simply focus all your energy and thoughts on a project and you are bound to succeed". I put this under the category of "duh". Maybe it was revolutionary in 1940, I doubt that, but it does little for one now.
There are a few threads of "pull yourself up by your bootstraps, there are plenty of markets to exploit, you are only limited by yourself, socialism is bad, America is good" that make this book a product of its time AND obviously the words of a steel magnet who utterly dominated his field for decades.
My advice is to wave off this book unless you want a better version of "The Fountainhead" or a jingoistic book telling you that you are the only thing holding yourself back.
There are a few threads of "pull yourself up by your bootstraps, there are plenty of markets to exploit, you are only limited by yourself, socialism is bad, America is good" that make this book a product of its time AND obviously the words of a steel magnet who utterly dominated his field for decades.
My advice is to wave off this book unless you want a better version of "The Fountainhead" or a jingoistic book telling you that you are the only thing holding yourself back.
dnf
January 6, 2018I made out about halfway through but it just wasn't doing it for me. I am a fan of Napoleon Hill's timeless wisdom, but the delivery is just too old-timey – to the point of distraction. Surely the concepts here can be converted to a more modern vernacular that freshens it all up.
December 28, 2018
Anything and everything written by napoleon hill is a must read. I wish I had known about his books sooner.
November 6, 2020
“Great minds have purpose, others have wishes.” - Washington Irving [a quote from the book].
The book in essence provides the reader with a means to unlock the potential of their mind. I'm not saying this is the only way, but this is a proven way. I've read books from people who've already made it about how they made it. Almost all of those stories are examples of this method.
The 3 basic principles of owning your own mind are creative vision, organized thought, and controlled vision. The author goes through each of these principles and he goes deeper in explaining these.
A brief explanation of the 3 principles as I understood:
1/ Creative vision - It’s basically our imagination. Imagination however has to be applied in order to get results, so one must find opportunities. Continuous imagination is also important.
2/ Organized thought - It’s mainly a product of inductive & deductive reasoning and genetic traits. Everyone has good and bad habits. Identifying and categorizing these habits can go a long way. Bad habits can keep someone from fulfilling their purpose. Organized thought also helps unlock the subconscious through will power and the power of emotions.
He also mentions that quitting is a result of disorganized thinking. Quitting in hard times or just because of the influence of other negative minds is because of disorganized thinking. Accurate thinking and the faculty of reasoning is helpful for organized thinking.
3/ Controlled attention - This is the most important of all and is essential to the implementation of creative vision and organized thought. It is concentration and beyond. It is how an idea can be planned or impressed in the subconscious mind. Controlled attention is the "process of controlling all the activity of the mind and it directs you to a given end". The book provides 12 guiding principles for reaching this level of deep focus. Moreover, one must take full control of all the faculties of their mind if they want to fulfill their purpose.
The author talks about the importance of staying away from negative minds. Staying away from negative people can be seen as being selfish in other people’s eyes, but this is justifiable selfishness. In my opinion, this is also justifiable in the eyes of the theory of evolution. Because when it comes down to survival, your tribe will fight with you. According to the author, staying away from negativity provides food for the mind. Thinking is affected by other minds around you and your mind becomes affected by the people you associate with. When the time comes, it is critical that you find other masterminds that can support your purpose. So, social intercourse should be a conscious act that serves your purpose. He also stresses the importance of going the extra mile throughout the book. Action filters successful creative minds from the rest.
As a curious earthling, I read about the subconscious mind as it is still a mystery to me. This book was able to give me the WHY and the HOW to a certain extent. Subconscious is the link between infinite intelligence and the conscious mind.
Additionally, in a conversation between Hill & Carnegie, they talk about the significance of having 'motive'. To quote Carnegie, “a man without an obsessional motive is a man without power, or when he comes to power he’ll not be able to hold it”. 'Motive' is essential in fueling 'purpose'.
He also talks about spirituality and perseverance. Spiritual bankruptcy can keep your mind away from achieving purpose. Moreover, Hill & Carnegie can't stress enough the importance of choosing your significant other (remember how negative minds and positive minds can affect your mind?). Quoting from the book, "love is the spiritual harmony between two people and it is the highest form of social intercourse". According to them, although your SO can't be in meetings or in discussions relating to your business, SO can definitely give ideas, bring positivity and guide you to your purpose, but only if your SO is positive minded.
IMO humans are advanced and complex machines that can program themselves in accordance with the facts and information available to them. The genetic code also has a role to play here. However, as the author points out we need to take control of programming ourselves. Just because it is a fact doesn't mean it's a true quality fact. Our mind can self-program and deep learn, but there is a clear difference when inaccurate data is fed vs accurate data is fed. The same goes for children.
Highly recommend this book to anyone who's looking to unlock the means to take control of their own mind. It'll be a great guide, but only a guide. The rest is up to you and your mind. Definitely give it a try!
4/5 stars because certain portions are out of date according to today's standards, which can easily be fixed by the publisher.
The book in essence provides the reader with a means to unlock the potential of their mind. I'm not saying this is the only way, but this is a proven way. I've read books from people who've already made it about how they made it. Almost all of those stories are examples of this method.
The 3 basic principles of owning your own mind are creative vision, organized thought, and controlled vision. The author goes through each of these principles and he goes deeper in explaining these.
A brief explanation of the 3 principles as I understood:
1/ Creative vision - It’s basically our imagination. Imagination however has to be applied in order to get results, so one must find opportunities. Continuous imagination is also important.
2/ Organized thought - It’s mainly a product of inductive & deductive reasoning and genetic traits. Everyone has good and bad habits. Identifying and categorizing these habits can go a long way. Bad habits can keep someone from fulfilling their purpose. Organized thought also helps unlock the subconscious through will power and the power of emotions.
He also mentions that quitting is a result of disorganized thinking. Quitting in hard times or just because of the influence of other negative minds is because of disorganized thinking. Accurate thinking and the faculty of reasoning is helpful for organized thinking.
3/ Controlled attention - This is the most important of all and is essential to the implementation of creative vision and organized thought. It is concentration and beyond. It is how an idea can be planned or impressed in the subconscious mind. Controlled attention is the "process of controlling all the activity of the mind and it directs you to a given end". The book provides 12 guiding principles for reaching this level of deep focus. Moreover, one must take full control of all the faculties of their mind if they want to fulfill their purpose.
The author talks about the importance of staying away from negative minds. Staying away from negative people can be seen as being selfish in other people’s eyes, but this is justifiable selfishness. In my opinion, this is also justifiable in the eyes of the theory of evolution. Because when it comes down to survival, your tribe will fight with you. According to the author, staying away from negativity provides food for the mind. Thinking is affected by other minds around you and your mind becomes affected by the people you associate with. When the time comes, it is critical that you find other masterminds that can support your purpose. So, social intercourse should be a conscious act that serves your purpose. He also stresses the importance of going the extra mile throughout the book. Action filters successful creative minds from the rest.
As a curious earthling, I read about the subconscious mind as it is still a mystery to me. This book was able to give me the WHY and the HOW to a certain extent. Subconscious is the link between infinite intelligence and the conscious mind.
Additionally, in a conversation between Hill & Carnegie, they talk about the significance of having 'motive'. To quote Carnegie, “a man without an obsessional motive is a man without power, or when he comes to power he’ll not be able to hold it”. 'Motive' is essential in fueling 'purpose'.
He also talks about spirituality and perseverance. Spiritual bankruptcy can keep your mind away from achieving purpose. Moreover, Hill & Carnegie can't stress enough the importance of choosing your significant other (remember how negative minds and positive minds can affect your mind?). Quoting from the book, "love is the spiritual harmony between two people and it is the highest form of social intercourse". According to them, although your SO can't be in meetings or in discussions relating to your business, SO can definitely give ideas, bring positivity and guide you to your purpose, but only if your SO is positive minded.
IMO humans are advanced and complex machines that can program themselves in accordance with the facts and information available to them. The genetic code also has a role to play here. However, as the author points out we need to take control of programming ourselves. Just because it is a fact doesn't mean it's a true quality fact. Our mind can self-program and deep learn, but there is a clear difference when inaccurate data is fed vs accurate data is fed. The same goes for children.
Highly recommend this book to anyone who's looking to unlock the means to take control of their own mind. It'll be a great guide, but only a guide. The rest is up to you and your mind. Definitely give it a try!
4/5 stars because certain portions are out of date according to today's standards, which can easily be fixed by the publisher.
January 16, 2025
The US propaganda in this is so palpable, it’s laughable. I’m still waiting to learn “how to own my own mind”. The points of relevance and value to the topic at hand are few and far between. All I was told by this book is that:
- People are poor because they “think” they are poor, lmao.
- Those who don’t achieve are not working hard enough, because apparently that’s the only thing holding people back.
- American way of life is the “best” and apparently it’s great for all Americans and everywhere else is not so great.
- Mormonism!!! I agree that faith can benefit someone in controlling mind and emotions. The way this book talked about faith, however, is not inclusive at all. Even though the author has a biased view of religion, I believe he could have presented a more inclusive view of how one’s faith can help in achieving the goal of Owning Your Mind, as this is something that everyone relates to.
…
Contradictions:
- “If you cannot get that which you want, you can change your desires and want something that you can get”. But earlier he said, you can get whatever you want if you work hard enough. He also talked about the feeling of success being aligned with doing work that you enjoy and not settling for whatever gives you a paycheck. His exact words were, “the successful man always are engaged in work they like to perform”. Saying people should give up on trying to do what they love and instead do something else goes against that.
- “the man who uses his mind power to damage or destroy others soon eliminates himself by the loss of his power”. Then he talks about selfish world leaders who were destroyed by their need to DOMINATE. But also yay America lmao 😂.
- “a system that will give men the opportunity to earn more money when performing work that is less desirable”
-an education system that will not turn out too many men for some types of work and too few for others types.
…
At one point I was starting to think that this is a comedy piece by Hill, to show how Carnegie consistently contradicts himself with the answers he gives to Hill’s questions.
- Seek out a career opportunity in an area that interest you, BUT also DON’T, if too many people also have interest in it. Diversify your education and training to have access to more avenues, BUT also focus all your efforts in the mastery of one thing. Gravitate towards opportunities that generate wealth BUT remember, to be truly successful you have to love what you do. So if what you enjoy doing doesn’t generate wealth, I guess you’re screwed idk 🤷♂️-
…
Carnegie: “our people are the freest people of the world and the richest of individuals”.
Me: 😂
Hands down the worse book I’ve ever read.
- People are poor because they “think” they are poor, lmao.
- Those who don’t achieve are not working hard enough, because apparently that’s the only thing holding people back.
- American way of life is the “best” and apparently it’s great for all Americans and everywhere else is not so great.
- Mormonism!!! I agree that faith can benefit someone in controlling mind and emotions. The way this book talked about faith, however, is not inclusive at all. Even though the author has a biased view of religion, I believe he could have presented a more inclusive view of how one’s faith can help in achieving the goal of Owning Your Mind, as this is something that everyone relates to.
…
Contradictions:
- “If you cannot get that which you want, you can change your desires and want something that you can get”. But earlier he said, you can get whatever you want if you work hard enough. He also talked about the feeling of success being aligned with doing work that you enjoy and not settling for whatever gives you a paycheck. His exact words were, “the successful man always are engaged in work they like to perform”. Saying people should give up on trying to do what they love and instead do something else goes against that.
- “the man who uses his mind power to damage or destroy others soon eliminates himself by the loss of his power”. Then he talks about selfish world leaders who were destroyed by their need to DOMINATE. But also yay America lmao 😂.
- “a system that will give men the opportunity to earn more money when performing work that is less desirable”
-an education system that will not turn out too many men for some types of work and too few for others types.
…
At one point I was starting to think that this is a comedy piece by Hill, to show how Carnegie consistently contradicts himself with the answers he gives to Hill’s questions.
- Seek out a career opportunity in an area that interest you, BUT also DON’T, if too many people also have interest in it. Diversify your education and training to have access to more avenues, BUT also focus all your efforts in the mastery of one thing. Gravitate towards opportunities that generate wealth BUT remember, to be truly successful you have to love what you do. So if what you enjoy doing doesn’t generate wealth, I guess you’re screwed idk 🤷♂️-
…
Carnegie: “our people are the freest people of the world and the richest of individuals”.
Me: 😂
Hands down the worse book I’ve ever read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 2, 2025
If your familiar with Napoleon Hills work, particularly the classic “Think and Grow Rich” title which was his breakthrough book - this may not be as groundbreaking or new to you …
However what I found interesting was that his “Think and Grow Rich” book was compiled after interviewing many multi millionaires and successful entrepreneurs of his era —- and accordingly compiled over many years of undertaking this task along with other research and study on his part.
The original entrepreneur that challenged him to do this, including whom too he interviewed for his works was Andrew Carnegie— and this book was no exception with a lot of the material seemingly taken from his interview and conversations with him alone — which makes one wonder and find impressive if this was just one of the successful men he studied and compressed much of the wisdom into this book alone - it’s little wonder and fascinating how he compressed the whole big picture and knowledge from multiple others into his other works like the phenomenal Think and Grow Rich Book
Moreover . As I write this review many years later at the beginning of the year 2025 - when the world has drastically changed and information is abundant — your mind getting bombarded with all sorts of media and content - not to mention with the implications of Artificial Intelligence (Ai) — the topic of this book - ie “owning your own mind” becomes incredibly more important now and relevant more than ever before
This makes it for a highly important and recommended read.
To Our Continued Success!
Seemy
Waseem.tv/Blog
👆🏼 P.S -
If you found this review helpful - I’d like to invite you to discover more on our blog. Where the community share some of our most important insights to level up each others knowledge 💡- from experience in studying books like this, training programs, podcasts and much more - visit the blog link above to find out more.
P.P.S 😅 - You probably noticed from my profile that I’ve reviewed a LOT of books over the years now - if you love seeking knowledge like me I’d love to connect with you further as a like minded person (send me a friend invite! 😀) - Also if you are curious - here is my preferred and recommended resource for seeking timeless wisdom - Check it out via the website invite link below 👇🏼 (You’ll be able to claim some awesome books for free 📚)
https://Waseem.tv/GoodReadsBookInvite
However what I found interesting was that his “Think and Grow Rich” book was compiled after interviewing many multi millionaires and successful entrepreneurs of his era —- and accordingly compiled over many years of undertaking this task along with other research and study on his part.
The original entrepreneur that challenged him to do this, including whom too he interviewed for his works was Andrew Carnegie— and this book was no exception with a lot of the material seemingly taken from his interview and conversations with him alone — which makes one wonder and find impressive if this was just one of the successful men he studied and compressed much of the wisdom into this book alone - it’s little wonder and fascinating how he compressed the whole big picture and knowledge from multiple others into his other works like the phenomenal Think and Grow Rich Book
Moreover . As I write this review many years later at the beginning of the year 2025 - when the world has drastically changed and information is abundant — your mind getting bombarded with all sorts of media and content - not to mention with the implications of Artificial Intelligence (Ai) — the topic of this book - ie “owning your own mind” becomes incredibly more important now and relevant more than ever before
This makes it for a highly important and recommended read.
To Our Continued Success!
Seemy
Waseem.tv/Blog
👆🏼 P.S -
If you found this review helpful - I’d like to invite you to discover more on our blog. Where the community share some of our most important insights to level up each others knowledge 💡- from experience in studying books like this, training programs, podcasts and much more - visit the blog link above to find out more.
P.P.S 😅 - You probably noticed from my profile that I’ve reviewed a LOT of books over the years now - if you love seeking knowledge like me I’d love to connect with you further as a like minded person (send me a friend invite! 😀) - Also if you are curious - here is my preferred and recommended resource for seeking timeless wisdom - Check it out via the website invite link below 👇🏼 (You’ll be able to claim some awesome books for free 📚)
https://Waseem.tv/GoodReadsBookInvite
September 30, 2023
These ten chapters are the foundation for so many of the similarly titled and focused books that have subsequently been published. Here is a concise sum of it - from someone else!
1. CREATIVE VISION:
Focus your mind intently on one or a few problems and your subconscious mind will reward you with solutions.
It also trains you to recognize the solution when you see it or come across it. Persistence and obsessiveness are essential.
2. PURPOSE:
You must have a definite purpose, an obsessive mission, plans to follow, make use of the mastermind principle (learning from other greats), using the power of applied faith.
3. TRAITS OF A MASTERMIND:
- Recognizes favorable opportunities
- Plans every move he makes
- Removes limitations from his own mind.
- Adopts and follows the habit of going the extra mile
- Assumes full responsibility for his own deeds.
4. NEGOTIATION SKILLS:
The ability to negotiate with others with the least amount of friction in order to achieve the greatest amount of friendly cooperation is the most important skill required.
In other words, human relations that benefit both parties.
5. EFFORT:
Those who have a creative vision make their work appear effortless.
They get what they want with the least amount of effort.
6. :ORGANIZED THOUGHT:
Make an effort to provide your mind with as many accurate and foundational facts as possible.
Habit, social heredity, and mimicry all play a significant role. Be aware of their individual effects on your life and thinking.
7. EMOTIONS:
You must train your mind and willpower to be the masters of your emotions.
An emotional mind can´t think like a rational mind.
8. CONTROLLED ATTENTION:
Controlled attention magnetizes the brain with the nature of one's dominant thoughts, aims, and purposes, causing one to be constantly on the lookout for everything necessary that is related to one's dominant thoughts.
9. PROCRASTINATION:
You need to stop procrastinating by using the principles of self-discipline, perseverance and definitiveness of purpose.
Remove bad habits from your daily routine and replace them with productive ones.
10. SUBCONSCIOUS:
Keep your subconscious mind stimulated.
The mind comes to believe any idea which is repeatedly presented. Make sure you feed your mind with as accurate and foundational facts as possible.
1. CREATIVE VISION:
Focus your mind intently on one or a few problems and your subconscious mind will reward you with solutions.
It also trains you to recognize the solution when you see it or come across it. Persistence and obsessiveness are essential.
2. PURPOSE:
You must have a definite purpose, an obsessive mission, plans to follow, make use of the mastermind principle (learning from other greats), using the power of applied faith.
3. TRAITS OF A MASTERMIND:
- Recognizes favorable opportunities
- Plans every move he makes
- Removes limitations from his own mind.
- Adopts and follows the habit of going the extra mile
- Assumes full responsibility for his own deeds.
4. NEGOTIATION SKILLS:
The ability to negotiate with others with the least amount of friction in order to achieve the greatest amount of friendly cooperation is the most important skill required.
In other words, human relations that benefit both parties.
5. EFFORT:
Those who have a creative vision make their work appear effortless.
They get what they want with the least amount of effort.
6. :ORGANIZED THOUGHT:
Make an effort to provide your mind with as many accurate and foundational facts as possible.
Habit, social heredity, and mimicry all play a significant role. Be aware of their individual effects on your life and thinking.
7. EMOTIONS:
You must train your mind and willpower to be the masters of your emotions.
An emotional mind can´t think like a rational mind.
8. CONTROLLED ATTENTION:
Controlled attention magnetizes the brain with the nature of one's dominant thoughts, aims, and purposes, causing one to be constantly on the lookout for everything necessary that is related to one's dominant thoughts.
9. PROCRASTINATION:
You need to stop procrastinating by using the principles of self-discipline, perseverance and definitiveness of purpose.
Remove bad habits from your daily routine and replace them with productive ones.
10. SUBCONSCIOUS:
Keep your subconscious mind stimulated.
The mind comes to believe any idea which is repeatedly presented. Make sure you feed your mind with as accurate and foundational facts as possible.
June 22, 2021
While it was interesting to read about some of the history of American industrialism, this book did not provide much in the way of insights on how to actually own your own mind. It wasn’t quite what I was looking for.
That said, some points were pertinent, if not common sense: focus brings results, do hard things without fear, be determined to the point of obsession, etc. I mean, fairly basic principles, but at face value…these aren’t recipes for success alone, nor keys to actually “owning your own mind”. This was more about using your mind to accomplish goals. There is a difference. How do we develop such razor focus? It wasn’t really expounded upon beyond “just be obsessed”.
I give it two stars for being historically interesting (if it could be verified as authentic), but it really falls apart for me in a few key ways:
- It is misogynistic, dated, and insensitive material…a product of its time- yes, but still…ugh.
- The interviews with Carnegie and others were most certainly made up or paraphrased at a minimum. They were totally unconvincing, to the point that it distracted from the material with how self-serving it was. Nobody talks like this. Secular reading on Hill reveals that it is highly contested as to whether he ever even met or spoke to these people he claims to be interviewing. Hill was likely a con man.
- More than once, it devolves into a blatant propaganda machine for capitalism (which don’t get me wrong, I’m all for ethical capitalism and personal exceptionalism…but it got old quick), and whole sections of the book are devoted to ranting against “something for nothing” types, and socialism. This is book is basically crack for Boomers. It was hard to stomach in many areas.
- Some of this was downright kooky pseudoscience, and there was a LOT of emphasis on prayer.
This book is an interesting read. That’s about it. I don’t think I could ever recommend it as anything more than mindless reading, which is ironic, given the subject matter.
That said, some points were pertinent, if not common sense: focus brings results, do hard things without fear, be determined to the point of obsession, etc. I mean, fairly basic principles, but at face value…these aren’t recipes for success alone, nor keys to actually “owning your own mind”. This was more about using your mind to accomplish goals. There is a difference. How do we develop such razor focus? It wasn’t really expounded upon beyond “just be obsessed”.
I give it two stars for being historically interesting (if it could be verified as authentic), but it really falls apart for me in a few key ways:
- It is misogynistic, dated, and insensitive material…a product of its time- yes, but still…ugh.
- The interviews with Carnegie and others were most certainly made up or paraphrased at a minimum. They were totally unconvincing, to the point that it distracted from the material with how self-serving it was. Nobody talks like this. Secular reading on Hill reveals that it is highly contested as to whether he ever even met or spoke to these people he claims to be interviewing. Hill was likely a con man.
- More than once, it devolves into a blatant propaganda machine for capitalism (which don’t get me wrong, I’m all for ethical capitalism and personal exceptionalism…but it got old quick), and whole sections of the book are devoted to ranting against “something for nothing” types, and socialism. This is book is basically crack for Boomers. It was hard to stomach in many areas.
- Some of this was downright kooky pseudoscience, and there was a LOT of emphasis on prayer.
This book is an interesting read. That’s about it. I don’t think I could ever recommend it as anything more than mindless reading, which is ironic, given the subject matter.
June 14, 2024
"How to Own Your Own Mind" by Napoleon Hill is a powerful and transformative guide that delves into the mechanics of thinking, decision-making, and achieving success. This book, part of the esteemed Mental Dynamite series, is a must-read for anyone looking to harness the full potential of their mind. Hill’s timeless wisdom and practical advice are as relevant today as when they were first written. His clear and engaging writing style makes complex concepts accessible, providing readers with actionable steps to improve their mental faculties and overall life satisfaction. For its depth, practicality, and enduring value, I give this book 5 stars.
Main Points:
1. Mastery of Thought:
• Hill emphasizes the importance of controlling and directing one’s thoughts, explaining how focused thinking leads to personal and professional success.
2. Decision-Making Skills:
• The book offers detailed strategies for making sound decisions, emphasizing the importance of decisiveness and the role it plays in successful leadership.
3. Imagination and Creativity:
• Hill explores the power of imagination, encouraging readers to cultivate creative thinking and visualize their goals to turn dreams into reality.
4. Self-Discipline:
• A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the development of self-discipline, highlighting its critical role in achieving sustained success and personal growth.
5. Accurate Thinking:
• The concept of accurate thinking is thoroughly examined, teaching readers how to distinguish between facts and opinions and make decisions based on reliable information.
6. Persistence and Resilience:
• Hill underscores the importance of persistence and resilience in the face of adversity, providing motivational anecdotes and practical tips to stay the course.
7. Influence and Persuasion:
• The book delves into techniques of influence and persuasion, essential skills for anyone looking to lead or inspire others.
8. Organized Planning:
• Hill outlines the necessity of organized planning, offering a step-by-step guide to creating and executing effective plans to achieve one’s goals.
9. Definiteness of Purpose:
• Having a clear, definite purpose is a recurring theme, with Hill stressing that knowing exactly what you want is the first step towards achieving it.
10. Leveraging the Master Mind:
• The concept of the Master Mind, or the power of collaborative thinking, is explored, showing how synergy with others can accelerate personal and professional achievements.
Conclusion:
"How to Own Your Own Mind" by Napoleon Hill is a timeless classic that provides invaluable insights into the workings of the human mind and the principles of success. Hill’s guidance on mastering thought, decision-making, imagination, self-discipline, and more equips readers with the tools necessary to achieve their fullest potential. This book is an essential read for anyone committed to personal development and achieving their dreams. Its practical advice and profound wisdom make it a standout in the field of self-improvement literature. Highly recommended for its clarity, depth, and transformative potential.
Main Points:
1. Mastery of Thought:
• Hill emphasizes the importance of controlling and directing one’s thoughts, explaining how focused thinking leads to personal and professional success.
2. Decision-Making Skills:
• The book offers detailed strategies for making sound decisions, emphasizing the importance of decisiveness and the role it plays in successful leadership.
3. Imagination and Creativity:
• Hill explores the power of imagination, encouraging readers to cultivate creative thinking and visualize their goals to turn dreams into reality.
4. Self-Discipline:
• A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the development of self-discipline, highlighting its critical role in achieving sustained success and personal growth.
5. Accurate Thinking:
• The concept of accurate thinking is thoroughly examined, teaching readers how to distinguish between facts and opinions and make decisions based on reliable information.
6. Persistence and Resilience:
• Hill underscores the importance of persistence and resilience in the face of adversity, providing motivational anecdotes and practical tips to stay the course.
7. Influence and Persuasion:
• The book delves into techniques of influence and persuasion, essential skills for anyone looking to lead or inspire others.
8. Organized Planning:
• Hill outlines the necessity of organized planning, offering a step-by-step guide to creating and executing effective plans to achieve one’s goals.
9. Definiteness of Purpose:
• Having a clear, definite purpose is a recurring theme, with Hill stressing that knowing exactly what you want is the first step towards achieving it.
10. Leveraging the Master Mind:
• The concept of the Master Mind, or the power of collaborative thinking, is explored, showing how synergy with others can accelerate personal and professional achievements.
Conclusion:
"How to Own Your Own Mind" by Napoleon Hill is a timeless classic that provides invaluable insights into the workings of the human mind and the principles of success. Hill’s guidance on mastering thought, decision-making, imagination, self-discipline, and more equips readers with the tools necessary to achieve their fullest potential. This book is an essential read for anyone committed to personal development and achieving their dreams. Its practical advice and profound wisdom make it a standout in the field of self-improvement literature. Highly recommended for its clarity, depth, and transformative potential.
March 15, 2022
The material is dated yet there is a timelessness to the truths laid out in the message and instructions within. For example, the discussion does not warrant working hard to become a doctor, lawyer, or CEO because those positions were largely impacted back then just as they are now. Therefore, working hard within those positions or any position is not a guarantee to the individual that they will be able to find a job or be successful. Hence the argument for creative vision, to go outside of the scope of what is offered in the external environment and dedicate yourself to it. Unfortunately, artistic people with creative vision are largely at the whim of being chosen by another thereby limiting their success. The message of this book will not do much to help artists and my opinion is that the message is more directed towards sales people and administrators. Even so, I work in an environment where everybody in the office stays late and arrives early and still nobody ever gets promoted. The opportunity for advancement does not exist and will not present itself in the same fashion today as it did in the days of Carnegie.
November 29, 2023
In How to Own Your Own Mind, Napoleon Hill interviews Andrew Carnegie and tries to milk out of him the secrets to his success.
The general idea is great. Have a creative vision, organize your thoughts, and focus your attention towards implementing your creative vision. There's a lot of emphasis on hard work and self-responsibility.
Beyond that, there's a mound of dated prose to work through. Half the book is this fake (and deeply annoying) interview with Carnegie, where hill treats Carnegie like the king of knowledge and Carnegie spouting canned responses that sound like Hill having an imaginary conversation with himself. The later half of the book leans hard into prayer and faith, which is strange, because asking a higher power for things is quite the opposite of hard work and building your own success. It also clashes with Andrew Carnegie's rejection of Christianity.
How to Own Your Own Mind is a dated "secrets to success book" that, like most, contains morsels of truth buried in a pile of dung. You can either try to dig up some morsels, or avoid the shitheap all together.
The general idea is great. Have a creative vision, organize your thoughts, and focus your attention towards implementing your creative vision. There's a lot of emphasis on hard work and self-responsibility.
Beyond that, there's a mound of dated prose to work through. Half the book is this fake (and deeply annoying) interview with Carnegie, where hill treats Carnegie like the king of knowledge and Carnegie spouting canned responses that sound like Hill having an imaginary conversation with himself. The later half of the book leans hard into prayer and faith, which is strange, because asking a higher power for things is quite the opposite of hard work and building your own success. It also clashes with Andrew Carnegie's rejection of Christianity.
How to Own Your Own Mind is a dated "secrets to success book" that, like most, contains morsels of truth buried in a pile of dung. You can either try to dig up some morsels, or avoid the shitheap all together.
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April 9, 20214/9/2021 Actually very interesting. I think some stories and facts were embellished, which is the trend of business books these days, too, with made up conversations and nameless examples of clients, but overall it had some sound principles, despite a lack of some psychological or scientific knowledge at the time. Build good habits, have positive thoughts, maintain a purpose, and work for it. Of course, there are more detailed steps in the book, but overall, that's what I gleaned from it.
What I ultimately liked about it was that it said what 90% of the business and self-help books of today are saying, it just said it so many years ago, so he either set a trend for how to make a bunch of money from writing books about a formulaic positive thought process, or it works. My guess is that it's a bit of both. You won't get rich by being lucky, and you don't get rich just by working hard, but if you can come up with a good idea and pursue it with positive thought and work, you can make something of it.
What I ultimately liked about it was that it said what 90% of the business and self-help books of today are saying, it just said it so many years ago, so he either set a trend for how to make a bunch of money from writing books about a formulaic positive thought process, or it works. My guess is that it's a bit of both. You won't get rich by being lucky, and you don't get rich just by working hard, but if you can come up with a good idea and pursue it with positive thought and work, you can make something of it.
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