Think and Grow Rich (1937)

The success of this book proves, once and for all, that human beings are stupid, gullible and easy to make money out of.

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Over the last several months, a few friends have suggested that I read Think and Grow Rich (1937) by Napoleon Hill. I resisted it until recently. I didn't like the title. I didn't like the emphasis on money, money, money. Most recently however, I asked a respected friend how to approach certain personal goals. His answer, "Read, no STUDY Think and Grow Rich". So I did. If you ask a specific question of somebody you respect, you ought to give their answer a fair try.

Hill's book is an early classic of personal success and self-help. It probably belongs on your must-read list even if you're not using it to further your personal goals but just to understand the evolution of the genre.

In spite of the enduring popularity of Think and Grow Rich, I had a hard time navigating some passages. I was troubled by some of the things that Hill treats as axiomatic. The money, money, money mantra borders on idolatrous materialism. Hill has some ideas about spirituality and cosmology that are at times heretical and at other times just plain goofy. Written in 1937, it contains a number of dated references and some ideas that seem naive in the light the further unfolding of history. However, to dismiss this book because of these weaknesses (or conflicts with my personal opinions, if you prefer) would be to foolishly discard a lot of good. Most valuable are numerous mental models which, along with some excellent pep talks, have the potential to help the reader reach a new level of commitment to any worthy goal and the self-confidence required to achieve it.

I'm glad that I finally invested the time to read Think and Grow Rich. Over the next few weeks, I will continue to study and write about certain passages. Overall, I imagine a tree-lined boulevard in Chicago with the trees leafing out and flowers in bloom under a bright spring sky. The big picture is impressive. The view ahead is bright and beautiful, but it was a rough winter and there are many potholes where your can blow a tire or break an ankle. Take from it whatever good you will, and find your own way to navigate the rough spots. I do not recommend that you look here for your deepest guiding philosophy and worldview. But, if you are working on your commitment and confidence, do not neglect this classic.

[Originally posted on my blog at http://ItsClearAndBright.com]

I started this book just because I was looking for something to read via Audible.com. I continued on reading due to having already used the credit in my account and because I needed something to listen to while running, anyway.The original edition contains dated scientific references, among other things. A majority of the book is written in a formal style, such that it reads as a textbook, but without actual authority behind it.There are some inspirational moments and prescriptive details in the book, but the book starts and finishes in the realm of the surreal.I actually ended up enjoying the cultural oddities preserved in a 70 year old book, which got me through it. ( )

No matter the wildly observed criticisms by many,the contents of the book is christened with such titanic strength which posess the capabity of arousing the required state of mind as contained in the book. No doubts,it fills the mind with uttermost complacency of discovering the PRINCIPLES OF SUCCESS. I recommend it for anyone with the passion for success.

This book was, for the most part, very encouraging. I don't agree with the spirituality behind Hills Philosophy, but a lot of what he presents is common sense. Thinking patterns do affect outcomes in people lives and wealthy people tend to think a certain way. ( )