PMA or Positive Mental Attitude, was conceptualized by Napolean Hill in 1937 and was outlined in his best selling book Think And Grow Rich.

PMA is a philosophy which asserts that having an optimistic disposition in every situation in one’s life attracts positive changes and increases achievement. Adherents employ a state of mind that continues to seek, find and execute ways to win, or find a desirable outcome, regardless of the circumstances. This concept is the opposite of negativity, defeatism and hopelessness. Optimism and hope are vital to the development of a positive mental attitude.

Though there has been some controversy due to the philosophy’s simplistic nature, proponents believe that it’s the simplicity of it that allows those that follow the philosophy to achieve success.

Even though we know that success doesn’t happen by accident, and that there is a science to achieving success, the science, much like the PMA philosophy is simple and virtually attainable for everyone. The main tool for acquiring this success is one you already possess– your mind.

Our mind is the only thing which we have complete control over. It can either become our biggest asset and ally or our biggest liability and foe. It’s a personal choice. We can decide to harness the power of your mind to deliver us the success we conceive of or let it have power over us delivering us unnecessary delays, chaos, confusion, challenges and potentially permanent failure.

Taking command and control over our minds to adopt a habit of having a positive mental attitude (PMA) determines our ability to achieve success. A PMA is a success mind-set which assures us the attainment of optimal mental, physical, spiritual and financial success.

The burning question…How do we achieve a PMA? 

First, keep your mind on the things you want, in all areas of your life, and do not allow your mind to work against you and your goals by developing a habit of thinking about what you don’t or thinking negatively in general. Negative thinking does not serve us and can actually act as a ‘success or wellness blocker’.

Case in point–many studies have been conducted regarding PMA and its effects on health, specifically with people suffering with serious illnesses such as cancer and kidney disease.  People with PMA have a significantly higher chance of survival and recovery. A study comparing people with chronic kidney disease with people kidney disease free showed that there was a significant difference between the groups. The kidney disease free group rated much higher in PMA.  Another study done with HIV-positive individuals found that a high health self-efficacy, a task-oriented coping style, and a positive mental attitude were strong predictors for both coping and surviving the disease.

Remember, our inner power comes from within and not from external factors. Life has no guarantees. Every minute you are living is a blessing that has to be experienced in the moment. It’s not always easy, but it’s always an option—a choice. Your choice.

Suggested Reading: The PMA Effect By: John Joseph