As a Man Thinketh vs Think and Grow Rich: A Deep Comparison of Two Self-Help Classics

In the world of personal development, two books have stood the test of time: As a Man Thinketh by James Allen and Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill. Both works are considered foundational texts in the self-help genre and have inspired millions across generations. But what are the differences between them? Which book is more relevant today? And which one should you read first?

As a Man Thinketh by James Allen is a short, philosophical guide on how thoughts shape character and destiny. Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill is a practical, detailed blueprint for achieving wealth and success through focused mindset and action. Allen emphasizes inner peace and moral strength, while Hill focuses on goal-setting and material achievement. Both highlight the power of thought but differ in tone, purpose, and depth.

Overview of As a Man Thinketh

Written in 1903 by British philosophical writer James Allen, As a Man Thinketh is a short but powerful book centered around the idea that our thoughts shape our lives. The title is taken from the Bible verse Proverbs 23:7: “As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he.”

Allen argues that a person becomes what they think about all day long. Positive, disciplined thoughts lead to positive outcomes; negative, chaotic thoughts lead to suffering. In just a few chapters, Allen covers how thought influences character, circumstances, health, purpose, achievement, and serenity.

It’s a book that emphasizes responsibility and mental discipline. At its core, it teaches that man is the master of his destiny, not through luck or environment, but through the cultivation of thought.

Overview of Think and Grow Rich

Published in 1937 after over two decades of research, Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill is a much longer and more detailed book. Hill interviewed over 500 successful individuals, including Andrew Carnegie, Henry Ford, and Thomas Edison, to uncover the “secret” behind their wealth and success.

The result was a 13-step formula for achieving any goal, particularly financial success. These steps include desire, faith, autosuggestion, specialized knowledge, imagination, organized planning, decision, persistence, the power of the mastermind, and more.

Unlike Allen’s book, which leans more toward philosophy and character development, Hill’s work is practical, structured, and focused on achieving external goals—especially money.

Core Differences Between the Two Books

1. Length and Depth of Content

As a Man Thinketh is about 30 pages long and can be read in under an hour. Think and Grow Rich is over 200 pages and takes a more structured approach with in-depth instructions and stories.

2. Philosophical vs Practical

Allen’s book is philosophical, almost poetic. It focuses on internal growth, character, and mindset. Hill’s book is practical, offering a step-by-step approach to financial and life success.

3. Target Audience

As a Man Thinketh appeals to readers seeking moral growth and spiritual understanding. Think and Grow Rich is for those interested in material success, entrepreneurship, and goal achievement.

4. View on Wealth

James Allen barely talks about money. To him, true wealth is peace of mind and noble character. Napoleon Hill places a strong emphasis on material wealth as a result of focused thought and action.

5. Style and Tone

Allen’s style is poetic, calm, and meditative. Hill’s tone is motivational, urgent, and persuasive, often encouraging action and belief in oneself.

Core Similarities Between the Two Books

1. Power of Thought

Both books agree that thoughts are powerful and can shape your destiny. They both preach mental discipline, visualization, and belief in oneself.

2. Self-Responsibility

Both authors stress personal responsibility. Your thoughts, decisions, and actions determine your future—not luck, environment, or fate.

3. Influence of Belief

James Allen and Napoleon Hill highlight belief as a force that shapes behavior. Allen says thoughts become character; Hill says belief transforms desire into reality.

4. Timeless Wisdom

Despite being written over 100 years ago, both books contain wisdom that resonates today, making them timeless classics in personal development.

Strengths of As a Man Thinketh

• Concise and easy to read: Perfect for beginners or those with limited time.
• Philosophical clarity: It’s a beautiful, reflective read that encourages deep introspection.
• Universal appeal: Doesn’t focus on material goals, so it’s applicable to people in all walks of life.
• Spiritual undertone: Appeals to those looking for inner peace and character development.

Strengths of Think and Grow Rich

• Comprehensive strategy: Offers a complete framework for achieving financial and life success.
• Inspirational stories: Real-life examples of success add credibility and motivation.
• Focused on goals: Helps readers clarify their desires and build action plans.
• Influence on modern self-help: It's arguably the most referenced book in the world of entrepreneurship and mindset training.

Weaknesses and Criticisms

As a Man Thinketh:

• Too short for some readers
• Less practical application—more inspirational than instructional
• Repetitive in places

Think and Grow Rich:

• Dated examples and language
• Focuses heavily on wealth, which may not appeal to all readers
• Some concepts (like the “ether” or subconscious autosuggestion) may feel mystical or unscientific

Which Book Should You Read First?

If you are new to self-help books and want a gentle introduction to the power of thought and character development, start with As a Man Thinketh. It’s short, elegant, and foundational.

If you’re ready to build a mindset for success and want a roadmap for achieving wealth or personal goals, start with Think and Grow Rich. It offers a broader system and a motivating tone that can push you to take action.

Ideally, read both. Start with Allen for the internal foundation, then move to Hill for external execution.

Final Thoughts: Two Sides of the Same Coin

As a Man Thinketh and Think and Grow Rich are not competing philosophies—they complement each other. James Allen teaches you how to think with purity and purpose. Napoleon Hill teaches you how to channel those thoughts into tangible success.

One helps you build your character; the other helps you build your dreams.

Whether you’re seeking peace of mind or financial abundance, both books offer a powerful message: Your thoughts are your most valuable asset.

If you master your mind, you master your life.