Outwitting the Devil: Summary Review
This is a summary review of Outwitting the Devil containing key details about the book.
What is Outwitting the Devil About?
"Outwitting the Devil" is a self-help book that uses allegory and storytelling to teach readers how to overcome negative thoughts and achieve success in life.
Outwitting the Devil is a work of fiction that was written in 1938 by Napoleon Hill, which was considered too controversial to be published in its era. The book is written as an interview between Hill (Mr. Earthbound) and the devil (our inner dark self), wherein Hill attempts to uncover the secrets to freedom and success by evaluating the greatest obstacles that humans face in order to attain their personal goals in life.
Summary Points & Takeaways from Outwitting the Devil
Some key summary points and takeaways from the book include:
* "Outwitting the Devil" is a self-help book based on Napoleon Hill's interviews with wealthy and successful individuals. The author argues that success is achieved through perseverance, self-discipline, and a positive mindset.
* The book covers key concepts in personal growth, success, and the psychology of achievement.
* It provides practical tips and strategies for overcoming obstacles and achieving one's goals.
* The author emphasizes the importance of defining and pursuing one's purpose, cultivating self-confidence, and maintaining a positive outlook.
* The book highlights the value of persistence, perseverance, and the power of positive thinking.
* It provides advice on how to resist temptations and distractions, and cultivate a strong and unshakable will.
* The author argues that by adopting a determined, focused, and positive approach, individuals can overcome the "devil" of self-doubt, fear, and failure and achieve their full potential.
Who is the author of Outwitting the Devil?
Oliver Napoleon Hill was an American self-help author. He is best known for his book Think and Grow Rich, which is among the 10 best-selling self-help books of all time.
Outwitting the Devil Summary Notes
Outwitting the Devil: Overcoming Fear and Becoming the Master of Your Mind
Napoleon Hill's book, "Outwitting the Devil," explores how fear and lack of individuality can cause people to drift through life without realizing their potential. Hill argues that fear is instilled in us at a young age through teachings about the "Devil" and a lack of preparation for the real world in schools. This fear leads us to be controlled by our thoughts and prevents us from pursuing our dreams.
Hill's epiphany came when he realized that he was giving in to fear and doubt, which was preventing him from finishing his manuscript on the philosophy of individual achievement. He believed that we all possess something called Infinite Intelligence, which is an abundance of faith and positive energy that we can tap into as long as we keep doubt, fear, and worry from our minds.
To become the master of our minds, we must first overcome fear and doubt. This means recognizing when fear is controlling our thoughts and taking action to push it aside. We must also focus on our own desires and goals, rather than being influenced by external factors such as societal expectations.
However, mastering our minds is only the first step. We must also apply our thoughts to the real world through our actions. This means putting in the necessary work to achieve our goals and not letting fear or doubt hold us back.
Outwitting the Devil: How to Achieve Success through Positive Thinking and a Clear Purpose
In Napoleon Hill's book, "Outwitting the Devil," he emphasizes the importance of positive thinking and having a clear purpose in achieving success. Hill argues that fear and negativity can control our minds, causing us to drift through life without purpose or direction. To break free from this cycle, we need to identify our life goals and stay focused on them.
Hill uses examples like Henry Ford and Franklin D. Roosevelt to show how determination and positive thinking helped them achieve their goals. They didn't let negative thoughts or circumstances cloud their minds. Instead, they stayed focused on their purpose and worked towards it with positivity and determination.
Having a clear purpose in life can be a powerful motivator. It helps us stay focused and committed to our goals, even when faced with obstacles or setbacks. Positive thinking also plays a crucial role in achieving success. When we think positively, we attract positive outcomes and opportunities into our lives. Conversely, negative thinking can lead to self-doubt and a lack of confidence, ultimately hindering our success.
The Importance of Positive Habits and Surroundings for Success
Developing positive habits and surrounding yourself with people who possess such habits is key to success, according to the author of Outwitting the Devil. While bad habits can become a regular way of life and have devastating effects, positive habits can improve your ability to function and achieve your goals. Successful people tend to surround themselves with positive people to avoid negative habits and influence. Andrew Carnegie, for example, served as a mentor to the author and surrounded himself with successful people. Habits of the people around you tend to rub off on you, so it’s important to be mindful of your surroundings and make conscious choices about who you spend your time with. Instead of accepting your circumstances, seek out peers with better attitudes and habits. By doing so, you can cultivate positive habits and increase your chances of success.
Learning from Failure: Key to Success according to "Outwitting the Devil"
Failure is often considered as a sign of defeat and many people tend to give up on their goals after experiencing failure. However, successful people know that failures are just a temporary setback and a necessary part of the journey towards success. This is One of the key ideas presented in the fourth section of the book "Outwitting the Devil" by Napoleon Hill. The author highlights the importance of perseverance and the ability to learn from failure to achieve success.
Thomas Edison's story is a great example of how failures can be a stepping stone to success. He failed numerous times before successfully inventing the light bulb and other revolutionary inventions. Similarly, Julie Krone's success as a professional jockey is a result of her persistence and determination to not give up on her dream despite being told that it was impossible.
The author emphasizes the need to view failures as temporary setbacks and to use them as opportunities for growth and learning. Successful people understand that failures are an integral part of the journey towards success and they view each failure as a chance to learn from their mistakes and improve their strategies.
Book Details
- Print length: 288 pages
- Genre: Self Help, Business, Nonfiction
What is a good quote from Outwitting the Devil?
Top Quote: “You are entitled to know that two entities occupy your body. One of these entities is motivated by and responds to the impulse of fear. The other is motivated by and responds to the impulse of faith. Will you be guided by faith or will you allow fear to overtake you?” (Meaning) - Outwitting the Devil Quotes, Napoleon Hill
What do critics say?
Here's what one of the prominent reviewers had to say about the book: “What a perfect time for this masterpiece to be published! Sharon Lechter’s notes bring into focus the real genius behind Outwitting the Devil and help us conquer fears that bedevil our success.” — Harvey Mackay, author of the#1 New York Times bestseller Swim with the Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive
* The editor of this summary review made every effort to maintain information accuracy, including any published quotes, chapters, or takeaways. If you're interested in furthering your personal development, I invite you to check out my list of favorite personal development books page. On this page, you'll find a curated list of books that have personally impacted my life, each with a summary and key lessons.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
