Think and Grow Rich Ch 13

The Sixth Sense: A Step to Riches

• The Sixth Sense, the final principle in Think and Grow Rich, is accessed through mastering the 12 previous steps.
• It's associated with creative imagination and the subconscious mind, acting as a "receiving set" for inspirations and hunches.
• The process of understanding and developing the Sixth Sense involves meditation and inner mind development.
• It's believed to be the bridge between the finite human mind and Infinite Intelligence, blending mental and spiritual realms.
• The Sixth Sense enables individuals to anticipate dangers and opportunities.
• A "Guardian Angel" is described as assisting those who develop their Sixth Sense, opening the "Door to the Temple of Wisdom."
• The author emphasizes that while the Sixth Sense may seem miraculous, it's a natural power operating within established natural laws.
• Infinite Intelligence can be harnessed to fulfill desires.
• Skepticism is irrelevant if mastery of previous principles has occurred.

Mastering the Sixth Sense

• The author's method of building character, involves "hero worship" and emulating admired figures through the daily practice of imaginary Council meetings.
• This practice included an imaginary "Invisible Counselors" group (Emerson, Paine, Edison, etc.) with whom the author held imaginary conversations to acquire their qualities.
• The author used autosuggestion during these imaginary meetings to instill the admired characteristics into his own subconscious mind.

Examples of Imaginary Council Interactions

• The author described specific interactions with each imaginary figure, seeking particular qualities (e.g., Lincoln's fairness, Edison's faith).
• Specific experiences shown include the interactions with Lincoln (the grave advisor), Burbank (the experimental one), and Edison (the futuristic observer of life's energy).

Practical Applications and Limitations

• The Sixth Sense is not a switch to be turned on and off, it's cultivated through experience and meditation.
• The Sixth Sense, though greatly beneficial, is often not realized until after the age of 40, more often past age 50 due to the maturation needed.
• Practical use of the Sixth Sense is seen in examples from figures like Henry Ford and Thomas Edison.
• The process is highly personal and often occurs gradually.

Importance of Faith and the Impact of Fear

• Faith is described as a crucial element for emulating others and achieving greatness.
• The author recognizes the importance of overcoming fear, a common human weakness, which can hinder progress.
• The book mentions the need to meticulously examine one's own subconscious for presence of fear, noting it’s potentially dangerous due to its unchecked influence.
• The author attributes instances where this sense saved the author, in emergencies from their Invisible Counselors.