Business Book Review: The Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale

In a modern era, this book is a testament to the power of steadfast faith that still underpins the work of so many.

My Rating: ★★★★
Length:  240 pages
Publisher: Prentice Hall
Released: 1952

Key Takeaways for Personal Branding

First published in 1952, The Power of Positive Thinking became a New York Times bestseller and remained so for over 180 weeks.

Over 70 years on, it’s still the go-to guide in personal development for many. The book is deeply founded in the faith of its author, clergyman Dr Norman Vincent Peale.

While the Power of Positive Thinking may be challenging for those with little faith, those with it will connect with Peale’s passionate beliefs. His modern counterparts still reflect many of his principles in general personal development, including affirmations and visualisation.

How to break the worry habit

Peale shares that a survey at the time of writing showed that church members live longer than non-church members. Married people lived longer than single people (he proposes it may be because they divide the worry between the two).

A scientific study of approximately 450 people who lived to a hundred explored the reasons why this was so. Among the reasons, they found they were free from fear and worry, especially the fear of death. And they had serene minds and a faith in God.

Peale says, that when it comes to worry and fear, there is one more powerful thing - faith:

“Fear is the most powerful of all thoughts with one exception, and that one exception is faith. Faith can always overcome fear.”

While he doesn’t use the term, Peale discusses ‘reframing’ negative thoughts to positive talk. Reminding you that you became a worrier by practice. So you can also become free of worrying with practice too.

Favourite Quotes

“People are defeated in life not because of lack of ability, but for lack of wholeheartedness.”

“If you talk to your subconscious mind with that positiveness, in due course it will be convinced.”

“Say the following line aloud: “I don’t believe in defeat.” Continue to affirm that until the idea dominates your subconscious attitudes.”

“You became a worrier by practicing worry. You can become free of worry by practicing the opposite and stronger habit of faith.”

If you’re a person of faith or open to those who are, this is a tranquil read. Light on references outside of faith, The Power of Positive Thinking is instead rich with stories. It’s a serene experience to journey into the depths of Peale’s conviction in his beliefs..

More than half a century on from its original publication,  I still frequently hear this book referenced in popular media across several platforms. In our modern era, its endurance is a touching testament to the power of faith for so many.

The Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale:  Available on Amazon.