Think and Grow Rich – Principle 11: Subconscious Mind 

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.

The are 13 Principles are listed below:

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

What is the “The Subconscious Mind”

The principle of “The Subconscious Mind” in Napoleon Hill’s “Think and Grow Rich” underscores the profound role that the subconscious mind plays in shaping our thoughts, behaviors, and ultimately, our success. Hill argues that understanding and harnessing the power of the subconscious mind is crucial for achieving one’s goals and desires. In this essay, we will delve into this principle, elucidate the steps and processes outlined in the book, and provide relevant case studies and examples to illustrate its significance.

Understanding the Principle

Napoleon Hill contends that the subconscious mind is a reservoir of immense power that influences our thoughts, decisions, and actions. Here are key aspects of this principle:

1. The Subconscious as the Driving Force: Hill asserts that the subconscious mind is responsible for translating our desires and thoughts into reality. It acts as an obedient servant, carrying out the instructions it receives from our conscious thoughts.
2. Auto-Suggestion: A central element of this principle is the concept of auto-suggestion, which involves repeatedly and vividly impressing your desires and goals upon your subconscious mind. By doing so, you can reprogram your inner beliefs and attitudes to align with your objectives.
3. Positive and Negative Influences: Hill emphasizes that the subconscious mind is susceptible to both positive and negative influences. Negative thoughts, doubts, and fears can hinder success, while positive thoughts and beliefs can propel you toward your goals.

Steps and Processes for Leveraging the Subconscious Mind

In “Think and Grow Rich,” Napoleon Hill outlines a series of steps and processes to effectively utilize the power of the subconscious mind:

1. Set Clear Goals: Clearly define your goals and desires. Specificity is crucial, as vague objectives can lead to vague results.
2. Auto-Suggestion: Develop a written statement that succinctly describes your goals and desires. Read this statement aloud every morning and night, with strong emotion and belief, to impress it upon your subconscious mind.
3. Visualization: Combine your written statement with visualization. Close your eyes and vividly imagine yourself already in possession of your desires. Visualize the details, emotions, and sensations associated with your success.
4. Affirmations: Create positive affirmations that support your goals and reinforce them throughout the day. These affirmations should reflect the positive outcomes you seek.
5. Control Negative Thoughts: Pay close attention to your thoughts and actively eliminate negative thinking. Replace doubts and fears with positive affirmations and constructive thoughts.

Case Study: Henry Ford

Henry Ford’s success story is often cited as an example of someone who effectively harnessed the power of the subconscious mind. Ford possessed an unshakable belief in his vision of mass-producing affordable automobiles. He constantly reaffirmed his goal and auto-suggested success. This unwavering belief led to the realization of his dream and the founding of Ford Motor Company.

Case Study: Jim Carrey

Jim Carrey, the famous actor and comedian, wrote himself a check for $10 million for “acting services rendered” and postdated it for five years in the future. He carried this check in his wallet and visualized himself receiving that amount for his acting. In 1994, just before the date on the check, he secured a movie role that paid him precisely $10 million. Carrey’s success illustrates the power of the subconscious mind in achieving seemingly impossible goals.

Conclusion

“The Subconscious Mind” is a pivotal principle in “Think and Grow Rich” by Napoleon Hill. It underscores the profound impact of our thoughts, beliefs, and emotions on our ability to achieve success. By following the steps and processes outlined in the book, individuals can effectively harness the power of their subconscious minds to align their thoughts and actions with their goals. The case studies of Henry Ford and Jim Carrey provide compelling examples of how this principle has played a significant role in the success of accomplished individuals. Ultimately, understanding and working with the subconscious mind is a powerful tool for anyone seeking to achieve their dreams and aspirations.