Does Knowledge Attract Money?

“KNOWLEDGE will not attract money, unless it is organized, and intelligently directed, through practical PLANS OF ACTION, to the DEFINITE END of accumulation of money.” Page 64 “Think and Grow Rich.”

Napoleon Hill is challenging the idea that knowledge is inherently powerful. Instead, he insists that only applied knowledge has real power, especially in the context of wealth creation. The phrase "definite end" refers to clarity of purpose. If you're not intentionally working toward the goal of making money, your actions and knowledge will scatter, rather than compound.

Chapter 2 presents six practical steps for turning Desire into Riches. Let’s look at how each aligns with the quote:

Step 1. Fix in your mind the exact amount of money you desire

This is the Definite End the quote talks about, clarity of goal. Provides a target for directing knowledge.

Step 2. Determine what you will give in return

Organizes your actions into a value exchange. This helps apply knowledge through practical effort.

Step 3. Establish a definite date by when you intend to possess the money

Adds urgency and direction. This keeps plans on a timeline and reinforces intelligent direction.

Step 4. Create a definite plan and begin at once

This is the “practical PLAN OF ACTION” from the quote. It’s not just knowing what to do, but actually doing it.

Step 5. Write a clear, concise statement

Organizes your goal and plan into a written commitment. Makes knowledge tangible and actionable.

Step 6. Read your written statement aloud twice daily

Programs your subconscious to believe and act on the plan. Helps sustain the intelligent direction over time.

Having knowledge doesn’t guarantee success or money. What matters is how you: define your purpose, organize your knowledge, turn it into actionable plans, and relentlessly move toward a specific goal. The 6 steps in Chapter 2 give you a system to do exactly that. They turn desire and knowledge into definite, strategic action, which is the only way to attract wealth.