
Why Read Think and Grow Rich Today?
Let's Start With A Preface or Two
Note to the Reader: The edition I’m referencing is the 1937 edition from The Prosperity Bible anthology.
Why read a book published in 1937? How could something written nearly a century ago still be relevant?
The Publisher’s Preface gives us a hint:
“You may need one idea, plan, or suggestion to start you toward your goal. Somewhere in this book, you will find the needed stimulus.”
This book isn’t just theory—it’s based on interviews with over 500 successful people, including Henry Ford, Andrew Carnegie, and Thomas Edison. Napoleon Hill spent more than 20 years studying what made them successful.
These men were not just wealthy—they reshaped industries and changed the world:
- Henry Ford revolutionized transportation by introducing the assembly line, making automobiles affordable for the average person. His Model T transformed the way people lived and worked, making car ownership possible for the masses.
- Andrew Carnegie, a Scottish immigrant, built the U.S. steel industry and became one of the richest men in history. Through Carnegie Steel, he fueled America’s industrial growth, helping construct railroads, skyscrapers, and bridges. Later, he became a major philanthropist, funding libraries, universities, and cultural institutions.
- Thomas Edison was one of the most prolific inventors in history, with over 1,000 patents. He is best known for perfecting the light bulb, but his work also led to the development of the phonograph, motion pictures, and the modern electric power grid. His innovations shaped modern life as we know it.
The lessons from these men are timeless—not just about making money, but about innovation, persistence, and impact.
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The Power of First-Hand Wisdom
Imagine someone—even someone who knows you well—being interviewed about your life, your pivotal moments, and your mindset.
Would they tell your story exactly as you experienced it?
Would they fully capture your thoughts, emotions, and decisions?
Probably not.
That’s why books like Think and Grow Rich, personal growth books, autobiographies, and memoirs are so valuable.
They save us time—time we’d otherwise spend figuring things out through trial and error.
Napoleon Hill spent decades learning from the most successful people of his time so that we wouldn’t have to.
Andrew Carnegie believed this knowledge was so important that he challenged Hill to dedicate 20 years of his life to uncovering and sharing it. This wasn’t just a casual project—it was a mission.
And now, we get to benefit from it.
Today, we have the advantage of consuming personal development content on demand through books, podcasts, and social media. But Think and Grow Rich remains a powerful foundation for success principles that still apply today.
The Author’s Preface reinforces this point:
“The secret to which I refer cannot be had without a price, although the price is far less than that of failure.”
Knowledge is only useful when applied—which is exactly why Hill challenges us to take action as we read.

“Riches Cannot Always Be Measured in Money”
This is one of the most powerful reminders in the Publisher’s Preface.
So let me ask you:
What is one thing you can’t purchase that makes you feel rich? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to see what we all value most.
Yes, money matters. But wealth isn’t just financial—it’s also about:
- Freedom – The ability to make choices without financial stress
- Peace of mind – Knowing your basic needs are covered
- Health and relationships – Because no amount of money replaces these
I grew up hearing people say that wanting money was bad—as if wealth automatically made someone greedy.
But over time, I’ve come to understand:
Money is energy. Money is a tool. Money provides choices.
This quote resonated with me:
“Money and material things are essential for the freedom of the body and the mind.”
If you have enough money to:
- Pay your expenses
- Sleep peacefully, without stress over bills
- Move freely through life without financial worry
Then you are experiencing a form of freedom.
It’s not about chasing wealth for wealth’s sake—it’s about using financial stability to create a better life.
This Is Just the Beginning…
And these are just insights from the Publisher’s and Author’s Preface. There’s so much more ahead.
Napoleon Hill believed that every person who accumulates success follows a predictable path—one that can be studied and applied.
Success is not a matter of luck—it’s a mindset, a process, and a choice. As we explore this book together, ask yourself: Are you ready to take control of your future?
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Next Up: Chapter 1 – Desire: The Starting Point of All Achievement
