Introduction: Discovering the New Thought Movement
As a 44-year-old entrepreneur, I’ve spent years searching for strategies to optimize success, productivity, and financial growth. Along the way, I stumbled upon the New Thought Movement, an often-overlooked yet deeply influential philosophy that has shaped modern self-improvement and success principles.
If you’ve ever heard of the Law of Attraction, positive thinking, or manifestation, you may already be familiar with New Thought principles—even if you didn’t realize it. This post explores the history, influence, and future of the New Thought Movement, helping you understand how its teachings can enhance your personal and professional life.
What Is the New Thought Movement?
The New Thought Movement is a spiritual and philosophical movement that emphasizes the power of positive thinking, visualization, and self-empowerment to shape reality. It promotes the idea that our thoughts directly influence our experiences, a concept that continues to impact personal development and business success today.
The History of the New Thought Movement
Origins: 19th Century Foundations
The movement began in the mid-19th century, influenced by key thinkers and healers who believed that mindset and beliefs could shape physical and mental well-being. Some of the most influential figures include:
- Phineas Quimby (1802–1866) – A pioneer of mind-body healing who believed that illness resulted from incorrect beliefs and that correcting one’s thoughts could restore health.
- Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882) – A transcendentalist who emphasized self-reliance, intuition, and the power of the mind.
- Mary Baker Eddy (1821–1910) – The founder of Christian Science, which shares similarities with New Thought principles regarding spiritual healing.
- Emma Curtis Hopkins (1849–1925) – A key teacher in the movement, known as the “Teacher of Teachers,” who trained many New Thought leaders.
By the late 19th century, the movement gained traction, inspiring various religious and spiritual organizations.
New Thought Expands: 20th Century Growth
As the movement gained popularity, several denominations and organizations emerged, spreading its teachings:
- Unity Church (Founded in 1889 by Charles and Myrtle Fillmore) – Focuses on positive thinking, prayer, and meditation to create a fulfilling life.
- Religious Science / Centers for Spiritual Living (Founded in 1927 by Ernest Holmes) – Emphasizes the science of the mind and how thought influences reality.
- Divine Science (Founded in the 1880s by Malinda Cramer and Nona Brooks) – Teaches that divine consciousness and healing come through right thinking.
During this period, New Thought influenced mainstream self-help, success coaching, and even psychology.
How New Thought Shapes Today’s Self-Improvement Trends
New Thought’s Influence on Modern Success Strategies
While you may not be familiar with the New Thought Movement by name, its principles have become deeply ingrained in modern self-improvement and business success strategies. Some of today’s most well-known figures and books have drawn heavily from New Thought teachings:
- Napoleon Hill’s Think and Grow Rich – A cornerstone of success literature, built around the idea that thoughts create reality.
- Norman Vincent Peale’s The Power of Positive Thinking – A book that popularized the connection between optimism and success.
- Rhonda Byrne’s The Secret – Brought the Law of Attraction (a core New Thought concept) into the mainstream, selling over 30 million copies worldwide.
- Tony Robbins, Bob Proctor, and modern motivational speakers – Many integrate New Thought principles into coaching and personal development programs.
How Many People Practice New Thought Today?
New Thought teachings continue to influence millions of people worldwide. Here are some statistics that highlight its modern reach:
- Centers for Spiritual Living has over 400 churches across the globe.
- Unity Church has over 1,000 congregations internationally.
- New Thought-influenced books, such as The Secret, have sold tens of millions of copies.
- An estimated 10 million Americans identify with New Thought spirituality or its derivatives.
Even beyond formal organizations, millions of entrepreneurs, coaches, and self-improvement seekers apply New Thought principles daily—often without realizing it.
The Future of the New Thought Movement
Why New Thought Matters More Than Ever
With the rise of technology, social media, and neuroscience, the ideas behind New Thought are more relevant than ever. Here’s what the future holds:
- Scientific Validation – Studies in neuroscience and quantum physics increasingly support ideas like visualization and belief-driven outcomes.
- Blending of Traditions – More people are integrating New Thought principles with mindfulness, meditation, and holistic health practices.
- Digital Growth – Online spiritual communities and coaching programs based on New Thought are growing rapidly.
- New Generations of Thought Leaders – Influencers, entrepreneurs, and coaches are modernizing New Thought concepts to reach wider audiences.
How New Thought Can Transform Entrepreneurs and Business Leaders
For entrepreneurs and business professionals, the principles of New Thought offer a powerful framework for success:
- Mindset Matters – Studies show that those with a positive mindset are more likely to achieve their goals.
- Resilience and Adaptability – Viewing challenges as opportunities rather than obstacles fosters perseverance.
- Stress Reduction – Practices like meditation, visualization, and affirmations enhance focus and reduce burnout.
- Ethical and Conscious Success – Unlike cutthroat business strategies, New Thought emphasizes success aligned with personal values and well-being.
Final Thoughts: The Lasting Impact of New Thought
As someone newly exploring the New Thought Movement, I see how deeply it has influenced modern self-improvement, business success, and personal growth. Whether through books, coaching, or daily practices, its principles empower people to take control of their destiny.
For those looking to improve their mindset, career, or overall quality of life, exploring New Thought principles can be a game-changer. By harnessing the power of belief, positive thinking, and personal responsibility, we can shape a better, more successful future.
