You know that feeling when you’ve been reading really intense, heavy books—the kind that make you think deeply but also leave you emotionally drained? That was me recently. I’d just finished a few powerful but weighty reads, and my mind was craving something lighter, something that felt like a warm conversation rather than a lecture. I wanted to read something genuine, uplifting, and maybe even a little familiar.
That’s when I stumbled upon Napoleon Hill’s Think and Grow Rich. Right now, I’m slowly making my way through Napoleon Hill’s book—it’s like sitting down with a wise, gentle friend who gives advice most kindly.
CONCEPT: 5/5
WRITING: 3.5/5
RELEVANCE: 4.5/5
OVERALL: 4.5/5
Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve.
First Impressions: I’ll Be Honest, I Was Skeptical
When a book has been recommended for decades, it’s natural to wonder: Is it genuinely that good? Or is it simply outdated? I’ll admit that the title ‘Think and Grow Rich’ initially made me hesitate. It sounded like one of those overly simplistic success guides — all about money and hustle. But I decided to give it a try, and I’m glad I did. Because this book isn’t really about getting rich in the way you might expect. It’s about something much deeper: developing a mindset that allows you to create the life you truly desire.
What It’s Really About: More Than Just Money
Turns out, Napoleon Hill didn’t just sit down and write this book on a him. He spent years studying successful people—like Henry Ford and Thomas Edison—trying to figure out what they had in common. What he found were these 13 principles that all seemed to lead to success. And the big idea tying them all together is surprisingly simple but powerful: Your thoughts shape your reality. If you can truly believe in what you want and take consistent action toward it, you’re already halfway there.
Who Should Read This? (Spoiler: Probably You)
This isn’t just a book for businesspeople or go-getters. It’s for anyone who’s ever felt stuck, unsure, or just in need of a little direction. Like:
- If you have big dreams but don’t know where to start.
- If you’ve ever felt discouraged or doubted yourself.
- If you want to surround yourself with the right kind of people, but aren’t sure how.
That said, the writing can feel a bit dated at times—it was written in the 1930s, after all. Some parts are repetitive, and you might need to push through a few slower sections. But the message is timeless.
What Stuck With Me
A few ideas from the book have really stayed with me:
It’s not enough to want something—you have to burn for it. A casual wish won’t cut it. You need real passion behind your goals. You can’t do big things alone. The people you surround yourself with matter more than you think.
Persistence is everything. Talent is great, but showing up again and again? That’s what really makes the difference.
Being “rich” isn’t just about money. It’s about living a full, meaningful life—one with purpose, peace, and good relationships.
The Takeaway:
Look, this book isn’t perfect. It’s old, it’s a little repetitive, and it asks a lot of you. However, it’s also full of wisdom that remains relevant today. If you’re looking for a thoughtful, motivating read—one that encourages you to look inward and take charge of your life—this might be just what you need.
It’s not a quick fix, but it’s a genuine guide. And sometimes, that’s exactly what we’re looking for.