I recently read a classic book “As A Man Thinketh” by James Allen. The ideas in this book are so simple that anyone can relate to this book. The particular section that caught my attention and got me thinking is how one’s thoughts have effects on his conditions. It says that the thoughts transforms into habits and habits turns into circumstances. And your circumstances dictates your future. So, if you want a better future, you need to improve current circumstances, which in turn can be traced to back to better habits and ultimately good thoughts. You don’t need to go to a fortune teller to know your future. Change your thoughts and it will change your future.
There are some wonderful examples that James Allen depicts in his book, some of which are outlined below.
Bestial thoughts crystallize into habits of drunkenness and sensuality, which solidify into circumstances of destitution and disease.
Impure thoughts of every kind crystallize into enervating and confusing habits, which solidify into distracting and adverse circumstances.
Thoughts of fear, doubt and indecision crystallize into weak, unmanly, and irresolute habits, which solidify into circumstances of failure, indigence, and slavish dependence.
Lazy thoughts crystallize into weak, habits of uncleanliness and dishonesty which solidify into circumstances of foulness and beggary.
Hateful and condemnatory thoughts crystallize into habits of accusation and violence, which solidify into circumstances of injury and persecution.
Selfish thoughts of all kinds crystallize into habits of self-seeking, which solidify into distressful circumstances.
On the other hand, beautiful thoughts of all kinds crystallize into habits of grace and kindliness, which solidify into genial and sunny circumstances.
Pure thoughts crystallize into habits of temperance and self-control, which solidify into circumstances of repose and peace.
Thoughts of courage, self-reliance, and decision crystallize into manly habits, which solidify into circumstances of success, plenty and freedom.
Energetic thoughts crystallize into habits of cleanliness and industry, which solidify into circumstances of pleasantness.
Gentle and forgiving thoughts crystallize into habits of gentleness, which solidify into protective and preservative circumstances.
Loving and unselfish thoughts which solidify into circumstance of sure and abiding prosperity and true riches.
One can not directly choose his circumstances, but he can choose his thoughts and so indirectly shape his circumstances and future.