Think and Grow Rich 13: The Sixth Sense 

Think and Grow Rich – An Introduction

Think and Grow Rich is a personal development and self-help book written by Napoleon Hill, first published in 1937. It is widely considered one of the most influential success books of all time and has had a significant impact on the self-help and motivational literature genre.

The book is based on Hill’s study of successful individuals, including business magnates like Andrew Carnegie, Henry Ford, and Thomas Edison. Hill spent several decades researching and interviewing these successful people to uncover the principles and philosophies that contributed to their achievements. He then distilled this knowledge into a set of principles and steps that he believed anyone could follow to achieve their own success.

There are 16 chapters in the book and the focus of this blog is on the “Sixth Sense“.

1. Introduction
2. Desire (The First Step to Riches)
3. Faith (The Second Step to Riches)
4. Auto-Suggestion (The Third Step to Riches)
5. Specialized Knowledge (The Fourth Step to Riches)
6. Imagination (The Fifth Step to Riches)
7. Organized Planning (The Sixth Step to Riches)
8. Decision (The Seventh Step to Riches)
9. Persistence (The Eighth Step to Riches)
10. Power of the Master Mind (The Ninth Step to Riches)
11. The Mystery of Sex Transmutation (The Tenth Step to Riches)
12. The Sub Conscious Mind (The Eleventh Step to Riches)
13. The Brain (The Twelfth Step to Riches)
14. The Sixth Sense (The Thirteenth Step to Riches)
15. How to Outwit the Six Ghosts of Fear (Clearing the Brain for Riches)
16. This Standing Army

What is the “Sixth Sense”?

Napoleon Hill’s seminal work, “Think and Grow Rich,” has been a cornerstone of personal development literature since its publication in 1937. Among the many principles and concepts expounded in this book, one of the most intriguing and enigmatic is the concept of the “Sixth Sense.” In Hill’s view, the Sixth Sense is an innate faculty that, when properly developed and harnessed, can guide individuals toward achieving their most audacious goals and dreams.

Understanding the Sixth Sense

1. Definition: In “Think and Grow Rich,” Napoleon Hill defines the Sixth Sense as an extraordinary form of perception that transcends the five physical senses (sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell). It is often described as a deep intuition or inner knowing, a “hunch” or gut feeling that provides individuals with insights, ideas, and guidance beyond what their conscious minds can fathom.
2. Development: Hill posits that the Sixth Sense can be developed and cultivated over time. He asserts that our subconscious minds hold vast reserves of untapped potential and wisdom. To harness the power of the Sixth Sense, Hill proposes the following steps and processes: a. Definite Chief Aim: Begin with a clear and well-defined goal or desire. This serves as a focal point for the Sixth Sense to operate effectively. b. Visualization: Hill advocates for the consistent practice of visualizing your goal as already achieved. Vividly imagine the details and emotions associated with your desired outcome. c. Autosuggestion: Repeatedly affirm your desire and belief in your ability to achieve it. These affirmations should be charged with strong emotions and faith. d. Faith and Belief: Develop unwavering faith in the Sixth Sense and its ability to guide you. Doubt and skepticism can impede its effectiveness. e. Relaxation and Silence: Create a quiet mental space through relaxation and meditation. This allows your subconscious mind to communicate more effectively with your conscious mind.

Case Studies and Real-World Examples

1. Edison’s Creative Genius: Napoleon Hill cites Thomas Edison as a prime example of someone who harnessed the Sixth Sense. Edison’s relentless pursuit of the electric light bulb involved countless experiments and failures. Hill suggests that Edison’s intuition guided him, as he often claimed to receive inspiration and insights from an unknown source when facing difficulties.
2. Darwin’s Theory of Evolution: Charles Darwin, the renowned naturalist, is another example Hill uses to illustrate the Sixth Sense. Darwin’s theory of evolution was not solely the result of scientific observation but also a deep intuition that guided him toward groundbreaking conclusions.
3. Henry Ford and the V8 Engine: Hill recounts the story of Henry Ford’s determination to develop the V8 engine when experts deemed it impossible. Ford’s unwavering belief in the Sixth Sense led him to a solution that revolutionized the automotive industry.

Conclusion

In “Think and Grow Rich,” Napoleon Hill presents the concept of the Sixth Sense as a mysterious yet powerful force that can help individuals achieve their goals and dreams. Hill’s book outlines a clear process for developing and using the Sixth Sense, including having a definite chief aim, visualization, autosuggestion, faith, and silence. Through case studies and real-world examples, Hill illustrates how this Sixth Sense has guided some of history’s most influential figures.

While the concept of the Sixth Sense is not scientifically proven and remains somewhat metaphysical, its impact on personal development and success cannot be denied. Hill’s timeless wisdom continues to inspire individuals to tap into their inner potential, trust their intuition, and manifest their desires, making “Think and Grow Rich” a classic guide for those seeking success and fulfillment.