As a Man Thinketh and the Mastery of Destiny - by James Allen (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

'A man is literally what he thinks, his character being the complete sum of all his thoughts.'

This illuminating hardback volume brings together two self-help classics by leading thinker in the New Thought movement, James Allen.

Influencing the modern ideas of manifestation and the Law of Attraction, James Allen's inspirational writings champion the power of positive thinking. As a Man Thinketh is a concise philosophical essay which emphasizes that we are the product of our thoughts: noble thoughts lead to a noble life, while negative or selfish thoughts result in a life of suffering and hardship. Allen stresses personal responsibility, urging readers to recognize that their external conditions are a reflection of their inner mental state.

Mastery of Destiny builds on these ideas by advocating for self-mastery in the act of shaping one's life. The work encourages readers to embrace personal responsibility, avoid self-pity or excuses, and focus on positive, constructive thoughts and behaviors. Through such mental discipline, Allen believes individuals can overcome challenges, transform their character, and align themselves with their highest potential. Ultimately, the book presents a vision of personal empowerment, stressing that each person is the architect of their own fate.

About the Author

James Allen (1864-1912) has been described as the godfather of self-help, given the huge popularity of his 1903 book As a Man Thinketh. That book outlined Allen's belief that by changing one's thoughts, a person could change their circumstance and achieve ultimate happiness. Born in the UK, Allen faced many hardships in his life, which led him to investigate self-development and ethics. Using himself as a test subject, he put into practice the ideas that would make him posthumously famous. While he never achieved the success he aspired to during his life, his writings remain a touchstone of the best personal transformation literature.