
The Magic of Thinking Big – Why Big Thinking Changes Life and How You Can Start Today
Written by: David J. Schwartz
Published: 1959 by Wilshire Book Co. (abridged Fireside edition 1987)
Genre: Non-fiction / Self-help / Personal Development
Pages: Approx. 228
Best for: Anyone who wants to boost confidence, aim higher, and build a life without limits

Why this book stands out
Even though it was first published over six decades ago, The Magic of Thinking Big remains a classic for a reason. With more than 6 million copies sold, Schwartz’s message is timeless: your mindset determines your potential Forbes named it one of the greatest self-help books, and readers ranging from Fortune 500 CEOs to college students—from Lou Holtz to Joe Harrington—credit it with sparking their growth and reshaping their outlook
The core massage
Believe You Can Succeed – Bigger belief = Bigger results. Schwartz explains that our mind is wired to find ways to make belief a reality . l goals get small wins. Ambitious goals fuel energy and creativity, pushing you beyond limits
Action Cures Fear – Fear shrinks in the face of action. The antidote to anxiety and doubt is doing the thing, again and again
Cure Excusitis – Success-killing excuses hold you back. Schwartz breaks down how “lack of time,” “age,” or “circumstance” are just stories—believe, and break through
Build Confidence – Practice positive body language and self-praise. Little wins build big belief
Surround Yourself with Positivity – Your tribe shapes your vibe. Be around big thinkers, not energy-drainers .
What you will take away
This book doesn’t just motivate—it reprograms your thinking. You’ll learn:
To replace fear with action
How excusitis sabotages effort—and how to cure it
Why “thinking big” opens mental space for creativity and confidence
That a big mindset attracts better results, better relationships, and bigger opportunitie.