Five “Laws of the Mind”: Words of Wisdom from the Past

By Joyce Friel

Andrew Carneige’s impact on the US is still evident in many ways today. In particular, the great buildings he provided for cultural advancement as a way of giving back to the community. He had 5 ‘laws of the mind’  he used to guide his focus and, consequently, drive his results. They are just as appropriate today as they were in Carneige’s time.

They are:

1. Fix your goal firmly and precisely in your mind. Precision is key.

2. Determine what you intend to give in return for reaching your objective. In his case, it was often buildings and public works. So clearly giving back was a key ingredient to his success, it wasn’t just a nice thing to do with his wealth. When you give back, others continue to use your services and products so a self-fulfilling prophecy gets established.

 3. Establish specific dates when you intend to have achieved your goal.

4. Create a definite plan and commit it to writing.

5. Read your plan twice a day. Keep it top of mind. What you focus on is what you get.

Great words to live. And there is tremendous evidence that Carneige’s formula works. What is the goal you want to achieve.  How about using this 5-step plan to make it become a reality!