Think and Grow Rich Part 2: The 1st Step to Riches (Burning Desire)

"The starting point of all achievement is Desire. Weak desire brings weak results."

Every person who reaches the age of understanding money wants money. But "wishing" for it will not bring riches.

There is a massive difference between a Wish ("I hope I get rich") and a Burning Desire ("I will be rich or I will die trying").

In Chapter 2 of Think and Grow Rich, Napoleon Hill teaches us that the only way to accumulate wealth is to make it an obsession. You must want it so badly that you convince your subconscious mind that you already have it.

1. Burn Your Ships (No Plan B)

A long time ago, a great warrior faced a powerful enemy army that outnumbered his own. He loaded his soldiers onto boats, sailed to the enemy's land, and then gave a shocking order: "Burn the ships!"

As the ships went up in flames, he told his men: "You see the ships burning? That means we cannot leave these shores alive unless we win. We have no choice—we win or we perish."

The Result? They fought with such desperation and courage that they won.

The Indian Context:
Look at a serious UPSC Aspirant or a Startup Founder. They often quit their jobs and cut off all safety nets. Why? Because when you have a "Plan B" (Safety), you never push hard enough to make "Plan A" work. To get rich, you must destroy all ways of retreat.

2. The 6 Practical Steps to Turn Desire into Gold

Napoleon Hill didn't just give philosophy; he gave a precise Financial Goal Setting Formula. If you want to be wealthy in 2026, follow these 6 steps exactly:

Step 1: Fix the Exact Amount

Don't say, "I want plenty of money." That means nothing to your brain. Be definite as to the amount. Say, "I want ₹1 Crore."

Step 2: Determine What You Will Give

There is no such thing as "Something for Nothing." Determine exactly what you will give in return for this money. (e.g., "I will give 12 hours of coding work daily" or "I will provide the best digital marketing service").

Step 3: Establish a Date

Set a deadline. "I will have this money by 31st December 2027." A goal without a deadline is just a dream.

Step 4: Create a Definite Plan

Create a plan for carrying out your desire and begin at once, whether you are ready or not. Do not wait for the "perfect time." Start imperfectly.

Step 5: Write it Down

Write out a clear, concise statement of the amount of money you intend to acquire, the time limit, what you will give in return, and the plan.

Step 6: Read it Aloud (Autosuggestion)

Read your written statement aloud, twice daily—once just before retiring at night, and once after arising in the morning. AS YOU READ, SEE AND FEEL AND BELIEVE YOURSELF ALREADY IN POSSESSION OF THE MONEY.

3. The Science Behind the Magic

This is not magic; it is psychology. When you read your goal aloud with emotion, you are programming your Subconscious Mind. This is called Autosuggestion.

Once your subconscious accepts the idea that you will be rich, it starts giving you ideas, plans, and opportunities that you never saw before. It changes your behavior from "Lazy" to "Obsessed."

Key Takeaways

  • Desire is a State of Mind: Wishing creates poverty. Desiring creates wealth.
  • No Retreat: Success comes to those who become "money conscious" and refuse to accept failure.
  • Repetition is Key: You must remind yourself of your goal every morning and night until it becomes a part of you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Does this really work?
A: Yes. Every self-made millionaire, from Bruce Lee to Oprah Winfrey, has used some version of this formula. It focuses your energy.

Q2: What if I don't have a plan yet?
A: It doesn't matter. Start with Step 1, 2, and 3. Once you fix the destination, your mind will eventually find the route (Plan).

Q3: Can I desire things other than money?
A: Absolutely. You can use this for health, relationships, or career growth. The principles of Burning Desire apply everywhere.

Up next: Part 3 – Faith (Visualization of, and Belief in Attainment of Desire).

📚 Credit & Disclaimer:

This post is a summary based on the classic bestseller "Think and Grow Rich" by Napoleon Hill.

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