How to think and Grow Rich Part 1:
Deciding on a Definite Major Purpose that Sticks
“Successful people move on their own initiative, but they know where they are going before they start.”
Napoleon Hill makes it clear that the first step of how to think and grow rich is figuring out what you desire more than anything else—and then coming up with a plan to act on it.
Why should you have a definite major purpose? According to Hill, doing so develops:
- Self-reliance
- Personal initiative
- Imagination
- Enthusiasm
- Self-discipline
Since Hill puts heaps of importance on deciding on a definite major purpose, it’s not unheard of for how-to-think-and-grow-rich-hopefuls to get stuck on this first step. To help you progress through your Napoleon Hill VT, we wrote this post to clarify the traits of a definite major purpose that’s worth your efforts.
How to Determine Which Definite Major Purpose Makes the Cut
Understanding how to think and grow rich requires a solid grasp of your definite major purpose. But, that doesn’t mean just any goal makes the cut. Here are some frequently asked questions on the meaning of Hill’s idea of a definite major purpose that should add clarity to anyone who’s struggling to definite their primary goal.
1. Is it advisable to set a definite chief aim for about three months, and after that set another definite chief aim?
In a nutshell, no. Here’s why: If your definite chief aim is achievable in three months, it’s a red flag that your definite major purpose doesn’t seem to be far enough out of reach.
The reason? Put simply, it’s too easy for a goal that can be achieved in as little three months to be put off again and again until it dwells only as an afterthought you turn to when time allows.
Many people fail to realize their dreams is because they only chase what they want when motivation strikes. But, those who are successful think about how to achieve their dreams every day.
When you look at it that way, the secret to achieving your definite major purpose is to AIM HIGHER.
The point of fixating on a definite purpose is to inspire your reliance, initiative, and imagination with a goal that feels so unrealistic, you must spend every moment of your waking life working towards it.
2. I want to make $1,000,000 by my 30th birthday through online businesses while inspiring, motivating, and helping youth. Should I specify what type of business before starting?
According to Napoleon Hill, your definite major purpose should be like reaching for the stars. But, according to this rare recording of Hill speaking on the subject, it DOESN’T have to be “sound.”
Hill emphasizes that the point of your definite major purpose is to develop an unwavering focus on one particular thing. While that end-point must stay the same, you may have to tweak your expected path to get there.
Think of it like spotting a far-off mountain peak and deciding that you’ll reach the top. From afar, your view is hazy at best, and you certainly can’t expect to predict every twist in the road or pothole you’ll encounter along the way.
In short, it’s fine to be flexible in your method, as long as each decision continues to bring you closer to your goal.
3. I’m having a difficult time thinking of my major definite purpose. How can I narrow down my goals?
One of the major reasons people hold themselves back from doing what they are truly meant to do is that they are afraid they’ll fail in some way or another. To avoid failure, they avoid naming that major definite purpose altogether.
Do determine your major definite purpose, ask yourself these questions:
- If you were unconditionally guaranteed success in any field you choose, what would it be?
- What would you want to do if you had unlimited time, unlimited resources, and guaranteed success?
The answer to that question should cause you to tingle a little bit. It should make your stomach flutter. It should send a thrill of excitement and anticipation through you that tells you this is the job you should be doing.
More critical than excitement, asking and answering those questions honestly could change your life.
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Next up in our multi-part series on How to Think and Grow Rich, we’ll take a look at what Hill meant by a “pleasing personality”—including how to evaluate your own.
