Books Thought-Force in Business and Everyday Life by William Walker Atkinson

Thought-Force in Business and Everyday Life

By William Walker Atkinson

Overview

Thought-Force in Business and Everyday Life is a foundational work by William Walker Atkinson, a pioneer in the New Thought movement and practical psychology. The book, first published in the early 20th century, presents actionable lessons on developing and using mental power—what Atkinson terms “thought-force”—to enhance success, influence, and self-mastery in both professional and personal contexts.

Key Themes and Concepts

1. Personal Magnetism and Influence

Personal Magnetism: Atkinson explains how individuals project mental energy and “magnetism” that affect others, whether in business negotiations, leadership, or daily interactions.

Thought-Force: The power of concentrated thought can shape external circumstances and attract opportunities or results aligned with one's intentions.

Influence Strategies: Methods for strengthening your presence, projecting confidence, and using mental focus to subtly persuade or inspire others.

2. Will-Power and Concentration

Cultivating Will: The development of strong will is presented as essential for achievement, enabling a person to persist, overcome obstacles, and direct their efforts effectively.

Focus and Attention: Atkinson advocates structured exercises for improving concentration, arguing that a focused mind creates tangible outcomes and personal “magnetism.”

3. Practical Mental Science

Subconscious Programming: By directing persistent thought and suggestion, behavior patterns and attitudes can be shaped to support ambitions and positive habits.

Psychic Influence: The book discusses subtle, often unconscious channels of influence, including body language, tone, and “thought projection,” useful for leadership, sales, management, and negotiations.

Self-Observation: Regularly analyzing your own thoughts and behaviors is encouraged, helping you adjust your mindset and strategies for greater effectiveness.

Representative Table: Thought-Force Applications

Notable Principles

Mental Influence Is Real: Atkinson asserts that the mind can transmit suggestions and intentions, subtly but powerfully, affecting others' perceptions and actions.

Responsibility and Ethics: With increased influence comes the responsibility to use these skills ethically—for mutual benefit, not manipulation or deceit.

Practices and Exercises: The book provides step-by-step mental drills to strengthen will, sharpen concentration, and develop a commanding, positive presence.

Legacy and Relevance

Atkinson’s work remains relevant for anyone interested in mindset, personal development, and non-coercive influence—topics closely related to modern leadership, executive presence, and success psychology.

His approach bridges practical techniques with elements of metaphysical thought, making it a forerunner of later books on personal power, law of attraction, and persuasive communication257.

Who Should Read This Book

Business leaders, entrepreneurs, sales professionals, and executives seeking a mental edge.

Individuals looking for practical mindset strategies for achievement and influence.

Anyone interested in the historic roots of self-help, positive thinking, and the psychology of success.

Author Note

William Walker Atkinson wrote prolifically on mental science, New Thought, and personal mastery—often under various pseudonyms. His work influenced generations of thinkers on the subjects of mindset, influence, personal power, and self-transformation237.

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