As a Man Thinketh
Assessment by Matthew Elaigwu Sunday (Nigeria)
1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?
The central idea of As a Man Thinketh by James Allen is that a person’s thoughts have a profound influence on their character, actions, and overall life. The author argues that individuals are the product of their thoughts, and by changing their thoughts, they can change their lives. Allen posits that our outer world reflects the inner workings of our mind and that our attitudes, beliefs, and mental state shape our circumstances and outcomes. Through this, Allen emphasizes the power of positive thinking and mental discipline as crucial factors in achieving personal success and happiness.
The book, written in a poetic and philosophical tone, makes the case that individuals can transform their destiny by cultivating mental habits of virtue, focusing on noble thoughts, and practicing self-discipline. This idea is encapsulated in the quote, “As a Man Thinketh in his heart, so is he,” underscoring the link between our inner mental state and our external reality. The main message is that by mastering our thoughts, we gain control over our lives and become the architects of our future.
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 Power of Thought
The first important idea that resonated with me is that our thoughts shape our reality. According to Allen, the mind is a powerful tool that can either limit or elevate a person’s potential depending on how it is used. This idea struck me because, in my own life, I’ve noticed the profound effects of my thoughts. For example, when I focus on negative outcomes or doubt my abilities, I tend to feel defeated and lack motivation. Conversely, when I intentionally focus on positive outcomes and remind myself of my strengths, I am more likely to take action and achieve my goals. This idea encouraged me to be more mindful of my thoughts, as they have a direct impact on my success and happiness.
ii. Self-Discipline and Character
Another idea that had a significant impact on me is the importance of self-discipline in shaping one’s character. Allen asserts that a person’s character is the sum of their habitual thoughts, and by developing good habits, one can build a strong, virtuous character. Personally, this resonated because I have struggled with maintaining consistency in certain areas of my life, such as staying organized and managing time effectively. I now realize that these habits are a reflection of my inner state and that by training myself to cultivate better mental habits, I can improve my overall character and actions.
iii. The Role of Purpose
Allen highlights the importance of having a clear purpose in life. He explains that people who lack a sense of purpose or direction often wander aimlessly, which leads to dissatisfaction and failure. This idea deeply impacted me because, at times, I have found myself feeling uncertain about my long-term goals or direction. By focusing on a clear purpose and aligning my thoughts and actions with that purpose, I have found a greater sense of fulfillment and motivation. For example, setting specific career goals has helped me prioritize my actions and make better decisions that align with my aspirations.
iv. The Law of Cause and Effect
The idea that “every action has a consequence” was another key lesson that stood out to me. Allen explains that all events in a person’s life are the result of their own actions, thoughts, and decisions. I found this particularly meaningful because it reinforces the concept of personal responsibility. Instead of blaming external factors for my challenges, I now recognize that I have the power to change my circumstances by adjusting my thoughts and actions. For instance, when I take responsibility for my productivity at work, I am able to achieve better results and experience greater satisfaction in my job.
v. The Power of Self-Worth
Allen’s discussion of self-worth and its connection to success was powerful. He argues that a person’s belief in their own value influences their achievements. I found this to be particularly relevant to my own journey. At times, I have doubted my abilities, especially when facing difficult challenges. However, by practicing self-affirmation and embracing my worth, I have learned to overcome these doubts and approach challenges with confidence. Understanding that my success begins with my belief in myself has helped me push through tough situations and achieve goals I once thought were out of reach.
vi. The Impact of External Influences
Allen touches on the idea that a person’s thoughts are influenced by their environment and the people around them. He advises readers to surround themselves with positive influences to foster growth and well-being. This idea was significant to me because I’ve experienced firsthand how the attitudes and behaviors of those around me can either uplift or drain my energy. For example, when I spend time with individuals who are goal-oriented and optimistic, I feel more inspired and motivated to pursue my own goals. On the other hand, being around negative or complacent people can sometimes affect my own mindset. This idea reminds me to be intentional about the people and environments I engage with.
vii. Mental Peace
The final lesson that stood out to me was the concept of mental peace as a key to happiness. Allen believes that a calm and peaceful mind leads to a fulfilling life. This idea is important because I have struggled with stress and anxiety, especially when I allow negative thoughts to take over. Learning to cultivate peace through mindfulness and positive thinking has helped me become more resilient in the face of challenges. I now focus on managing my thoughts and practicing gratitude, which has made a noticeable difference in my overall sense of well-being.
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 ideas from As a Man Thinketh will help me in practical ways by guiding my daily actions, decision-making, and interactions with others. First, by focusing on the power of my thoughts, I can make a conscious effort to replace negative thinking with constructive, positive thoughts. This will improve my personal productivity, as well as my relationships, because I will approach challenges with a solution-oriented mindset and remain calm in difficult situations.
In terms of helping create a better world, these lessons can be applied to my interactions with others. If I can encourage others to adopt a mindset of personal responsibility, self-discipline, and purpose, I believe it will inspire positive change. In my community, I plan to share these lessons by leading through example demonstrating how positive thinking and self-discipline can help individuals achieve their goals and improve their quality of life. If more people embrace these principles, I believe it will create a ripple effect of positive change, both personally and globally.
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.
One quote that stood out to me was:
“A man is literally what he thinks, his character being the complete sum of all his thoughts.”
This quote struck me because it highlights the intimate connection between our thoughts and our character. It serves as a reminder that we are not victims of our circumstances, but rather active creators of our lives based on the thoughts we choose to nurture. The more I internalize this idea, the more empowered I feel to take control of my destiny by consciously shaping my thoughts.
“You will become as small as your controlling desire; as great as your dominant aspiration.”
This quote made me reflect on my own aspirations and how they shape the person I am becoming. It reinforced the importance of setting high standards and having a clear vision of what I want to achieve. By aligning my thoughts with my aspirations, I can elevate myself and move closer to realizing my fullest potential.
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?
There was nothing in the book that I found particularly unclear. However, there are certain ideas in the book that may seem idealistic to some readers. For instance, the idea that we can entirely control our circumstances through our thoughts might be difficult for individuals facing systemic or external challenges that go beyond their personal control. While I believe that our thoughts play a major role in shaping our experiences, I also acknowledge that external factors, such as socio-economic conditions or health issues, can influence a person’s life.
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 does not contain traditional exercises like some self-help books do, but it does encourage deep reflection on one’s thoughts and mindset. The author invites readers to examine their thinking habits and to consciously choose thoughts that lead to personal growth. While the book does not provide a structured set of exercises, it encourages mental self-discipline and introspection, which I found helpful in my own practice.
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 the book I would like to comment on is the simplicity of its message. The principles outlined by James Allen are not revolutionary or complex but are timeless truths that can be applied by anyone, regardless of their background or circumstances. The straightforward nature of the book makes it highly accessible and easy to understand, which is why its message continues to resonate with readers over a century after its publication.
In conclusion, “As a Man Thinketh” is a powerful exploration of the mind’s role in shaping our lives. Its timeless wisdom offers practical guidance for personal growth and achieving success, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their mindset and ultimately their life.
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? 6
B. How helpful were the contents? 8
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
Jonathan Livingston Seagull
Assessment by Matthew Elaigwu Sunday (Nigeria)
1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?
The main idea Richard Bach is conveying in Jonathan Livingston Seagull is the pursuit of personal excellence and the importance of following one’s passion, regardless of the opinions and expectations of others. Through the character of Jonathan Livingston Seagull, Bach illustrates the concept that true freedom and fulfillment come from self-discovery, overcoming limitations, and striving for continuous growth. Jonathan, unlike the other seagulls in his flock, seeks to go beyond the mundane survival instinct of simply scavenging for food and, instead, becomes dedicated to perfecting his flight. His journey symbolizes the universal desire for self-improvement and the courage to pursue what one loves, no matter the obstacles. The book emphasizes that those who dare to be different and follow their unique path can find deeper meaning and a sense of true purpose in life.
This message is particularly powerful because it speaks to anyone who has ever felt constrained by societal norms, expectations, or the fear of not fitting in. The theme of growth, both personal and spiritual, encourages individuals to look within themselves and push past their perceived limitations, reaching for higher goals, not for the approval of others but for the fulfillment of their own potential.
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 Pursuit of Excellence Over Mediocrity
Jonathan Livingston Seagull rejects the idea of living a life focused only on survival and comfort. He is driven by the pursuit of flying as perfectly as possible. This concept resonates deeply with me because, in my own life, I have often felt the pressure to conform to the expectations of others or to simply do what is required to get by. For example, in my academic journey, I was once focused solely on passing exams and meeting minimal standards. However, after reading this book, I became more committed to pushing myself for deeper understanding and excellence, aiming to truly master the subjects I study, rather than just getting by.
ii. The Importance of Self Belief and Courage
Jonathan demonstrates an unwavering belief in his own abilities, despite the criticism and judgment from other seagulls. He has the courage to continue pursuing his dreams of perfecting flight even when others view his actions as pointless or foolish. This idea is powerful to me because it has often been challenging to believe in myself when facing external doubts or fears. There have been moments in my life, such as when I first started a new hobby or project, where I was unsure of my abilities. Jonathan’s example has reminded me to trust my instincts and not let others’ opinions stop me from pursuing what I am passionate about, especially when the road ahead is uncertain.
iii. Growth Comes from Challenge and Rejection
Jonathan’s greatest growth occurs when he faces failure and rejection, and instead of giving up, he uses these challenges as stepping stones to greater understanding. This idea is personally significant to me because I have experienced both failure and rejection, whether in academic pursuits or personal relationships. For example, I have failed tests that seemed insurmountable at the time, but each failure provided an opportunity to learn and improve. The book has taught me that failure is not the end but rather a necessary part of personal evolution, and that persistence is key to achieving personal transformation.
iv. Living Authentically and Following One’s Own Path
Jonathan does not follow the crowd; he follows his passion for flight, regardless of what others think. This idea resonates with me deeply because it calls for authenticity and courage to be true to oneself. In my own life, I have sometimes been influenced by the expectations of family, friends, and society to pursue certain goals. After reading Jonathan’s story, I am more committed to following my own path, especially when it aligns with my true passions and desires. It has inspired me to rethink some of my career goals and pursue a path that is more aligned with my personal values, even if it deviates from the traditional routes others expect of me.
v. The Power of Self Discipline
Jonathan’s commitment to perfecting his flight involves a great deal of self-discipline and practice. This lesson is important because it highlights that success and growth don’t come easily or instantly; they require dedication and effort over time. In my personal life, I sometimes find it challenging to maintain focus on long-term goals, especially when immediate rewards are not apparent. The book has helped me appreciate the value of persistence and discipline, teaching me to keep working toward my goals, even when progress is slow.
vi. The Concept of Transcendence
As Jonathan evolves throughout the book, he transcends not just the physical limitations of flight, but also his sense of self. This transcendence represents the idea that there is a higher state of being, a more enlightened and connected way of living. This idea has been transformative in my life, encouraging me to look beyond material pursuits and focus on spiritual and personal growth. I have begun to reflect more on my own inner state of being, striving to grow not just intellectually but also emotionally and spiritually.
vii. Perfection is a Journey, Not a Destination
One of the central themes of the book is the idea that perfection is not a fixed point but an ongoing process. Jonathan’s journey is about striving for excellence, not necessarily achieving a final, complete state of perfection. This resonates with me because I have often been too focused on achieving the perfect result, whether in school, in my career, or in personal projects. Jonathan’s story reminds me that the pursuit of excellence is the real reward, and that the journey itself is just as valuable as any final outcome. This has helped me adopt a more relaxed and patient approach to my goals, allowing me to enjoy the process rather than stressing about a perfect result.
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?
These ideas will help me by encouraging me to live more intentionally and authentically, both in my personal life and in my contributions to the world around me. The lesson of pursuing excellence, not for the sake of external approval but for personal fulfillment, will inspire me to dedicate myself to my passions with more focus and purpose. In my daily life, I plan to apply Jonathan’s lessons by practicing self-discipline and challenging myself to break through self-imposed limitations.
In a broader sense, these lessons can help me create a better world by encouraging others to embrace their individuality and pursue what they love, free from judgment and fear. By sharing the wisdom I have gained from this book, I can inspire others to tap into their own potential and live authentically. Additionally, by embodying Jonathan’s courage and persistence in my own life, I hope to motivate others to overcome obstacles and strive for their own personal growth.
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 quote that particularly stood out to me was:
“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 will see the way to fly.”
This quote was significant to me because it speaks to the power of inner vision over external circumstances. Too often, I find myself looking at my limitations whether it’s a lack of time, resources, or external support and allowing those to dictate my actions. Jonathan’s words remind me that true potential is found within, and that I have the ability to break through external limitations by shifting my mindset and focusing on what is possible. It encouraged me to challenge my limiting beliefs and recognize that I have the ability to create the life I want, regardless of the barriers I might perceive.
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?
The book’s depiction of transcendence is one idea that I found somewhat abstract and hard to fully grasp. While Jonathan’s evolution into a higher state of being was symbolic of spiritual growth, I found it difficult to relate this transcendence to my own understanding of personal development. The idea that Jonathan “leaves” his physical body in the end to enter a higher plane was beautiful but seemed somewhat detached from the more tangible lessons of self-improvement and persistence. Nevertheless, I believe that this symbolism is meant to convey the limitless potential within all of us, rather than a literal interpretation of transcendence.
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 specific exercises or activities for the reader to complete. However, it encouraged reflection and introspection. I spent time reflecting on my own limitations and aspirations, asking myself how I could push beyond my comfort zones and pursue my passions more fully. This self-reflection has been immensely helpful, as it has sparked a renewed sense of purpose and motivation in my daily life.
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 additional comment I would make is that the book’s emphasis on individuality and self-expression is both empowering and challenging. It encourages readers to follow their unique path, which, while inspiring, can also be intimidating. The pressure to “stand out” or pursue one’s own way can feel daunting at times. However, the book reminds us that this journey, though difficult, is ultimately rewarding and essential for achieving personal fulfillment. It has helped me embrace the idea that the path to happiness and success is unique for each individual, and it has motivated me to embrace my own personal journey with greater confidence.
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? 6
B. How helpful were the contents? 8
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