As a Man Thinketh
Assessment by Akintoye John (Nigeria)
1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?
The main idea of is the power of thought in shaping a person’s character, circumstances, and destiny. The author emphasizes that every action, habit, and outcome in life springs first from the hidden seeds of thought. Just as a garden becomes fruitful or overrun with weeds depending on the seeds planted and nurtured, so too the mind produces either success or failure depending on the thoughts allowed to grow.
It also argues that a person cannot rise above the level of their thoughts. Pure, disciplined, and purposeful thinking leads to peace and achievement while negative, careless and impure thinking leads to weakness, suffering, and failure. It shows that circumstances are not accidents but reflections of one’s inner life. If a man desires change in his external world, he must first change his inner world of thoughts
2. What were the seven ideas which were personally most important to you and why? List these seven ideas followed by an explanation after each one as to why it was important to you. Use personal examples from your own life.
i. Thought shapes character
One of the strongest ideas is that the mind is the master weaver of both character and destiny. This resonates with me because I have seen how my private thoughts influence my outward behavior. For instance, when I dwell on gratitude, I find myself more patient and kind in my daily interactions. But when I entertain negative thoughts, it quickly shows in my words and mood.
ii. The power of purpose
The book stresses that a man with purpose becomes strong, while one without it drifts aimlessly. This struck me personally because I have experienced seasons of clarity, when I set a goal and pursued it, and seasons of confusion, when I lacked direction. Purpose gave me focus in life and even in personal development and helps me use my time more wisely.
iii. Suffering often comes from wrong thoughts
It presents suffering not just as fate but as the result of wrong choices and thought patterns. While I don’t believe all suffering is self-created, I do see how much pain comes from allowing envy, fear, or bitterness to dominate the mind. Personally, I have wasted energy worrying about people’s opinions of me, and that mental weight created unnecessary stress
iv. Joy comes from right thinking
Another idea that touched me is that happiness does not depend on possessions or circumstances but on the state of one’s mind. This explains why some people seem content with little, while others remain restless with plenty. I’ve experienced this in small ways: during busy seasons, when I chose to maintain a grateful heart, I felt peace, but in moments when I focused only on what was lacking, it do seems like I lost my joy
v. Vision leads to achievement
Finally, the idea that dreams are the seedlings of reality inspired me. Allen says that noble visions lead to noble achievements, and low visions to low outcomes. For me, this connects with the goals I have set in my nursing career and in personal growth. When I picture myself contributing meaningfully to healthcare and leadership, it motivates me to study harder, to seek opportunities, and to keep growing. Without that vision, it would be easy to lose motivation.
vi. Calmness is power
One of the most beautiful passages in the book is about calmness being the crown of self-mastery. This idea struck me because I used to mistake loudness, speed, or forcefulness for strength. Yet, I have noticed that the people who influence me the most are those who remain composed under pressure. Personally, I have been in meetings where tempers flared, but choosing calmness allowed me to respond with clarity rather than confusion. Calmness attracts respect and gives strength where restlessness only creates weakness.
vii. Clean thoughts build a clean life
Allen highlights that purity of mind naturally leads to purity in action and lifestyle. This was important to me because it reminded me that external discipline begins internally. Many times, I have tried to change habits outwardly, only to fall back when my inner thoughts did not change. For instance, when I was determined to manage my time better, the real breakthrough came not just from writing schedules but from changing the way I thought about time itself
3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?
In my daily personal life, I can use these ideas to become more deliberate with the thoughts I allow to settle in my heart. For example, when I face challenges, instead of letting fear dominate, I can choose courage and confidence. It can changes how I act, how I speak, and how I handle responsibilities. If I think of myself as capable, I approach tasks with energy, if I dwell on doubt, I shrink back. It also helps me see the value of purpose. Life without direction is easily wasted, but with a clear sense of mission, every day gains meaning. Practically, this encourages me to be intentional about my career path and my personal growth. Instead of drifting, I want to live with focus, setting goals that reflect who I want to become.
On a broader scale, these lessons shape how I interact with others. If my thoughts are filled with love, patience, and understanding, it will naturally reflect in how I treat people. This is one way I can help create a better world by contributing positivity and peace rather than negativity. A calm and thoughtful mind does not spread chaos, it brings stability which others around me can draw from.
Most importantly, the book teaches me that true change is contagious. When I discipline my thoughts and live with purpose, others notice and this can inspire those around me to also cultivate better thoughts and habits. In that sense, building a better world does not always require grand gestures.
4. Quotes: Are there any statements which the author made that particularly got your attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.
“A man is literally what he thinks, his character being the complete sum of all his thoughts.”
It made me realize that who I am becoming is not shaped mainly by circumstances, but by the daily stream of thoughts I allow. It challenges me to take responsibility for the quality of my mind, because eventually it will show in the quality of my life.
“As the plant springs from the seed, so every act springs from the hidden seeds of thought.”
I found this powerful. Just as no plant grows without a seed, no action happens without thought. It calls one me to pay attention to “mental seeds.” If one plant worry or anger, he will harvest regret. But if one plant faith and discipline, the harvest will be fruitful.
“Men are anxious to improve their circumstances, but are unwilling to improve themselves; they therefore remain bound.”
I found this confronting. It is easy to want better results without working on myself. It reminded me of times when I prayed for open doors but was not preparing myself to walk through them. True change begins with inner improvement.
“Calmness of mind is one of the beautiful jewels of wisdom.”
This is perhaps my favorite. It reminded me that wisdom is not always loud or dramatic, but often quiet and composed. I have learned that calmness gives strength where restlessness creates weakness. It inspired me to cultivate inner peace as a mark of maturity.
5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and, if so, why?
While As a Man Thinketh is a book filled with timeless wisdom, there are a few ideas that I do not fully agree with.
The first is the way the book almost makes thought the sole cause of every life circumstance. James Allen repeatedly emphasizes that circumstances are the direct result of the thoughts a person holds. While I believe strongly in the power of thought to shape character and influence outcomes, I also believe there are external factors beyond an individual’s control such as systemic issues, economic limitations, or unexpected crises that also shape life. For instance, a hardworking and disciplined person may still face unemployment due to conditions in the job market. To say that this is only the fruit of wrong thinking feels too absolute.
Another idea I am cautious about is the suggestion that all suffering is the product of wrong thought. I agree that negative thinking can create unnecessary pain and suffering is part of life’s reality and can even serve to strengthen us. For example, people may suffer from illness, natural disasters, or loss despite having positive and noble thoughts. To me, suffering is not always a punishment from wrong thinking but sometimes a mystery that calls for resilience and hope.
6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?
It does not contain formal exercises like questions, tasks, or written reflections for the reader to complete. Instead, it reads almost like an extended meditation, where every sentence feels like a challenge to pause, reflect, and apply
7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.
One aspect of As a Man Thinketh that stood out to me, and which has not been directly covered in the earlier questions, is the book’s brevity and style. It is a very small book, yet it carries enormous weight. I found that the simplicity of the language made the ideas feel universal, almost like proverbs that can apply in any culture or season of life
Another point worth commenting on is the book’s strong emphasis on personal responsibility. It consistently draws attention to the fact that no one else can think for you, your mind is your own garden to cultivate or neglect. While I already reflected on some disagreements with this absolute view, I still found the emphasis refreshing in a world where it is easy to blame external conditions
Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.
A. How interesting was it to read? 8
B. How helpful were the contents? 9
C. How easy was it to understand? 7
D. Would you recommend it to others? 10
E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 8.5
Jonathan Livingston Seagull
Assessment by Akintoye John (Nigeria)
1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?
The main idea of Jonathan Livingston Seagull is the pursuit of excellence and self-discovery beyond the limits that society, tradition, or even nature seems to impose. Richard Bach uses the story of a seagull who is not content with ordinary life to teach that true living comes when one dares to be different, to follow passion, and to seek perfection in what one loves most. For Jonathan, life is not just about eating or survival like the rest of his flock believes. Instead, life is about flying, pushing boundaries, and reaching higher levels of skill and understanding. His journey reflects the struggle of anyone who has ever been misunderstood for wanting more out of life than what is commonly accepted. Even though his choices bring rejection and loneliness, they also open doors to freedom, mastery, and a deeper purpose.
It also projects that conformity may give comfort, but it is only in daring to rise above the ordinary that we touch greatness. Jonathan’s story mirrors the path of people who break away from the crowd in search of meaning, passion, or perfection in their craft. Along the way, he learns that true success is not only about personal achievement but also about helping others discover their own potential. The book teaches that heaven is not a place far away, but rather the state of becoming perfect in what we love to do and in understanding who we really are. In essence, the main message is that life is meant for growth, for stretching beyond limitations, and for embracing freedom that comes with discovering one’s purpose.
2. What were the seven ideas which were personally most important to you and why? List these seven ideas followed by an explanation after each one as to why it was important to you. Use personal examples from your own life.
i. The courage to be different
One of the first lessons that touched me in Jonathan’s story was his courage to be different. While every other seagull focused on fighting for food, Jonathan was busy practicing flight. He dared to step out of the ordinary, even though it made him unpopular and even misunderstood by his family and flock. This idea is important to me because I have often found myself walking paths that others do not immediately understand. For example, I remember when I chose to invest my time in leadership and service rather than just focusing on what most of my peers thought was the “safe” and “normal” way to live. At first, I felt strange for not following the crowd, but like Jonathan, I have come to realize that difference is not weakness. It is often the very seed of distinction.
ii. Excellence requires sacrifice
It was clear that Jonathan’s mastery of flight did not come overnight. He practiced tirelessly, even at the cost of pain and loneliness. This made me reflect on the truth that excellence demands consistency and sacrifice. In my own life, preparing for academic work and leadership responsibilities has taught me the same. There were nights of little sleep, days when I sacrificed leisure to prepare for tasks, and moments when I doubted if the effort was worth it. But just as Jonathan discovered new abilities through persistence, I have learned that true growth only comes when we pay the price of discipline.
iii. Passion over survival
Jonathan’s passion was not simply to fly in order to find food but to fly because he loved the experience. This lesson reminded me that life must go beyond mere survival. Too often, society pushes us toward the practical path, saying we must only do what ensures stability, not necessarily what brings joy. I see this in my nursing journey. Nursing is not only a profession for me to earn a living, it is a passion and a calling. The joy I feel when I care for patients, when I comfort families, or when I use my knowledge to make someone’s life better goes far beyond just having a career. Just as Jonathan’s love for flying gave meaning to his life, my passion for nursing gives meaning to mine. It is what keeps me pressing on through the emotional weight of the profession
iv. Rejection is not the end
One of the hardest moments for me was the struggle of gaining admission into nursing school. The process was not smooth, and at times it felt like rejection was staring me in the face. There were delays and discouragements, and I wondered if perhaps it was a sign to give up. But like Jonathan, who was cast out of his flock yet found his true path, I realized that rejection was not the end. Instead, it shaped me to be resilient and determined. Finally being admitted into nursing school became a testimony of persistence. Now I see that those rejections were not failures but stepping-stones, pushing me to value the journey even more.
v. True freedom is self-discovery
Jonathan’s realization that true freedom comes from knowing who you are connected deeply with my own nursing story. For me, freedom has not been about doing what everyone else expected, but about discovering my calling as a nurse. Nursing is not just a profession I chose, it is part of who I am. The moment I discovered that caring, healing, and standing beside people in their most vulnerable moments was my purpose, I felt truly free. I was no longer bound by the pressure to choose careers others considered better. I was no longer trapped by the need to conform. Like Jonathan, I found freedom in embracing my true identity and walking the path of service through nursing.
vi. Learning never ends
Even when Jonathan reached what looked like “heaven,” he discovered there was more to learn. This reminded me that growth is a lifelong process. No matter how much progress I make, there is always another level to reach. For me, this means never settling. Each achievement, whether in academics, leadership, or personal growth, only opens the door to further learning. This idea keeps me humble, because it shows that no matter how far I go, there will always be room to grow
vii. Love means helping others rise
The final and perhaps most powerful lesson for me was Jonathan’s decision to return and help other gulls discover their potential. He realized that true success is not measured by personal mastery alone, but by the ability to inspire and guide others. This resonates with me deeply because I have always believed that leadership is about service, mentoring, and encouraging others. Just as Jonathan expressed love through teaching, I too see love as helping others rise. It is in giving that I find one find their own purpose more complete
3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?
The lessons from Jonathan Livingston Seagull are not just beautiful thoughts, they are like guiding lights I can carry into my everyday life. They remind me that life is not meant to be lived passively but actively, with purpose and vision. First, the story helps me to see challenges as opportunities. Jonathan’s many failed dives did not stop him, they prepared him for breakthroughs. In my daily life, when I meet setbacks, whether in academics, leadership, or personal goals,I can now choose to see them not as reasons to quit but as hidden steps toward growth. Second, the book pushes me to be intentional about excellence. Jonathan did not settle for being average, and that challenges me to go beyond “good enough.” In practical terms, this means giving my best in small things, preparing well before responsibilities, being disciplined with time and not cutting corners just to finish quickly. Third, these lessons influence how I relate with people. Jonathan’s decision to return and help the younger gulls shows me that knowledge is incomplete until it is shared. In my life, this means I should always look for ways to mentor, support, or encourage others, especially those who may not believe in themselves. Finally, the story gives me a broader vision of what it means to live. It tells me that freedom is not just doing whatever I like, but discovering my true purpose and living it with courage. If I can live out my calling every day with joy and passion, I will not only enrich my own life but also contribute meaningfully to my community.
4. Quotes: Are there any statements which the author made that particularly got your attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.
“Most gulls don’t bother to learn more than the simplest facts of flight. For most gulls, it is not flying that matters, but eating. For this gull, though, it was not eating that mattered, but flight.”
This line struck me because it shows the difference between living for survival and living for purpose. It made me think about how easy it is to just follow routines, chasing money or comfort, while forgetting passion. It reminds me to value my deeper calling above mere survival.
“What he had once hoped for the Flock, he now gained for himself alone; he learned to fly, and was not sorry for the price that he had paid.”
This hit me because it shows that even when others don’t support you, personal growth is still worth it. It reminds me that sometimes I may have to walk alone in pursuit of excellence, but in the end, the reward of growth outweighs the pain of rejection.
“We can lift ourselves out of ignorance, we can find ourselves as creatures of excellence and intelligence and skill. We can be free!”
This is a powerful declaration of potential. It tells me that freedom is not about breaking rules but about rising above ignorance. It gives me courage to believe that no matter my background or limitations, I can become excellent if I keep learning and stretching myself.
“Don’t believe what your eyes are telling you. All they show is limitation. Look with your understanding, find out what you already know, and you’ll see the way to fly.”
This final quote is profound. It teaches me that real vision goes beyond what is visible. In my own journey, there are times when circumstances seem impossible, but with understanding and faith, I can see beyond limitations. It is a call to trust what I know inside rather than only what I see outside.
5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and, if so, why?
While Jonathan Livingston Seagull is a very inspiring book, there are a few ideas that I personally do not fully agree with. The first one is the author’s description of “heaven.” In the story, Jonathan is told that heaven is not a place or a time but simply being perfect. While I understand the metaphor, I find myself disagreeing with it because perfection is not something that can be achieved once and for all. As humans, we will always have limits, and part of growth is accepting those limits while still striving to improve. Reducing heaven to “perfection” makes it feel like a personal achievement rather than something deeper, spiritual, or eternal.
Another point I disagree with is the idea that rules and traditions are only valuable if they lead to freedom. Freedom is important, Yes, but I believe rules can also provide structure, order, and protection, especially in a community. In the story, Jonathan is cast out for breaking the flock’s traditions, but in real life, not every tradition is harmful. Some rules, even when they restrict, help preserve unity and guide people toward discipline.
6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?
The book did not contain direct, step-by-step exercises for the reader to complete, like written activities or assignments. However, I believe the whole story itself was designed as an indirect exercise for the mind
7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.
One thing that stood out to me, which has not been directly covered in the earlier questions, is the way the book portrays loneliness. Jonathan spent a large part of his journey alone, misunderstood and even cast out by his flock. At first glance, loneliness feels like a punishment, but in the story it became a place of growth. That made me think differently about seasons in life when I have felt isolated. Sometimes the absence of a crowd is not a sign of failure, but an opportunity for deeper discovery.
Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.
A. How interesting was it to read? 9
B. How helpful were the contents? 8
C. How easy was it to understand? 8
D. Would you recommend it to others? 10
E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 9