Lecture by Dr. Napoleon Hill on Positive Mental Attitude (PMA)

Jul 16, 2024

Lecture by Dr. Napoleon Hill on Positive Mental Attitude (PMA)

Introduction

  • William James' Death and Napoleon Hill: When William James died in 1910, Napoleon Hill started exploring the minds of America's greatest men.
  • Think and Grow Rich: Hill's book was written in the White House in 1933 amidst a highly negative environment, showcasing the strength of PMA.

Positive Mental Attitude (PMA)

  • Definition: PMA is a state of mind created and maintained by individual choice and willpower, driven by personal motives.
  • Importance: Essential for achievement and constructive outcomes, based on purpose, desire, and faith.
  • Methods: Practical methods are available for developing PMA, such as focusing on the positive aspects around the negatives (e.g., seeing the doughnut around the hole).

Faith and Desire

  • Burning Desire and Applied Faith: Key to achieving success; few experience this, and fewer act with applied faith.
  • Prayer and PMA: Effective prayers come from a mind conditioned to PMA, not just during crises.
  • Thought Vibrations: Thoughts carry the precise state of mind to others, facilitating better influence.

Examples and Real-life Applications

  • W. Clement Stone: His salesmen were trained to maintain a positive attitude, leading to significant financial success.
  • Sales and Influence: Effective salesmanship and other professions require a positive attitude for successful outcomes.
  • Constructive Statements: Regular use of positive mottos can build PMA.

Techniques for Maintaining PMA

  • Evening Self-Session: Compliment yourself enthusiastically for future accomplishments to condition your mind positively.
  • Invisible Guides: Imaginary guides assigned to different aspects of life can aid in maintaining positive results (e.g., health, prosperity, wisdom).
  • Expressions of Gratitude: Regularly express gratitude to keep your PMA guides active.

Enemies of PMA

  • Negative Influences: Fears, doubts, people, unrequited love, health issues, intolerance, greed, ignorance, and lack of purpose can undermine PMA.
  • Daily Vigilance: Constant effort is required to maintain PMA amidst these potential negatives.

Achieving Balance

  • Not Too Much, Not Too Little: Balance in life and material possessions supports a well-rounded existence.
  • Habit Development: Positive habits foster PMA and are essential for a successful life.

The 12 Great Riches of Life

  1. Positive Mental Attitude
  2. Sound Physical Health
  3. Harmony in Human Relations
  4. Freedom from Fear
  5. Hope for Future Achievement
  6. Capacity for Applied Faith
  7. Willingness to Share Blessings
  8. Engagement in Labor of Love
  9. Open Mind on All Subjects
  10. Complete Self-discipline
  11. Wisdom to Understand People
  12. Financial Security

Observation: Money is the last listed; other aspects are foundational for effectively using financial resources.

Conclusion

  • PMA's Central Role: PMA is crucial across various life aspects, including prayer, personal and professional success, and achieving overall well-being.
  • Continuous Improvement: Constantly work on maintaining and strengthening PMA to live a successful and balanced life.