Book SummaryAssume the Best, by Louise Cowley

1-Page Summary1-Page Book Summary of Assume the Best

Reality as Objective and Its Relationship to Imagination

Cowley's main point is that what we usually think of as objective reality, the external world we perceive through our senses, is not as fixed and unchangeable as it appears. Instead, she, building on Neville Goddard's ideas, argues that objective reality is a "shadow world" projected from our own minds, shaped by our past imaginings. Our encounters aren't independent from us but intricately intertwined with our inner world of thoughts, beliefs, and feelings.

Reality Is Not as Solid or Constant

To begin grasping the malleable nature of reality, Cowley encourages us to look beyond the illusion of solidity presented by our senses. She emphasizes two key aspects that highlight the dynamic and ever-changing essence of our view of objective truth.

All Objects and Phenomena Are Made Of Moving Molecules, Atoms, and Electrons

Cowley reminds us that despite appearing static, all aspects of the physical realm are in constant motion at a microscopic level. Objects are not solid, unchanging entities but rather a vibrant dance of atoms, molecules, and electrons. This continual motion, even if imperceptible to our naked eye, reveals the underlying fluidity of the apparently solid environment surrounding us. Just as a wave maintains its form while its water molecules are constantly moving, our experiences, too, undergo perpetual change.

Context

• The movement and interaction of atoms and molecules are fundamental to chemical reactions, where bonds are broken and formed, leading to new substances.
• This phenomenon, observed by Robert Brown in 1827, describes the random movement of particles suspended in a fluid, providing evidence of the constant motion of molecules.
• Even in solids, atoms vibrate around fixed points. These vibrations, or phonons, contribute to the properties of materials, such as thermal conductivity and elasticity.
• Human perception is limited and cannot detect the microscopic motion of particles, leading to the illusion of solidity and stillness in everyday objects.
• Many cultures have narratives or philosophies that embrace change as a natural and necessary part of life, reflecting the idea that stability is an illusion.

The Origin of Objective Truth: Imagination's "Shadow World"

Beyond the scientific understanding of constant motion, Cowley delves into the metaphysical roots of human experiences. She argues that the external reality we perceive is a "shadow realm," a projection of our past thoughts and imaginings, both conscious and unconscious. Our current reality has been shaped by our ideas about ourselves and the world. The things we see as external to us are, in truth, reflections of our inner world taking form. This concept is crucial because it implies that by altering our self-concept and our imaginings, we can, in turn, modify our external reality.

Practical Tips

• Create a "Metaphysical Discussion Group" with friends or online to share and explore experiences that may have a metaphysical dimension. This could be a monthly meetup where each person brings a personal story or a topic for discussion, such as dreams, coincidences, or feelings of déjà vu. The group can provide diverse perspectives and insights, enriching your understanding of how metaphysical ideas manifest in everyday life.
• Create a visual journal to track the correlation between your thoughts and experiences. Start by drawing or pasting images that represent your daily thoughts on one page and, on the opposite page, depict what actually happened during your day. Over time, review the...

Assume the Best Summary Techniques for Using Mental Strategies to Create Outcomes

Having established the connection between imagination and reality, Cowley outlines practical techniques to harness imagination to deliberately shape desired outcomes. These techniques revolve around creating a vivid, sensory-rich experience of the goal state and embodying the emotion of its truth.

Envisioning and Experiencing Longing That Has Come True

The author emphasizes the importance of moving beyond merely wishing for things to actually experiencing them in our imagination as if they're already real. This involves engaging multiple senses to make the imaginative action as vivid and tangible as possible.

Mental Representation of Desired State

Cowley suggests creating a detailed mental representation of your ideal state. For instance, if you desire a new home, imagine yourself within it. Explore different rooms, touch the furnishings, take in the textures, and notice the specific details that make it uniquely yours. Engage all your senses—smell the freshly cut grass in the garden, hear the crackling fireplace, or taste the dinner you'd prepare in the kitchen. The key is for this imagined experience to feel so real that it evokes genuine emotion and makes you...

Assume the Best Summary The Importance Of Assuming the Wish Fulfilled

A core aspect of Cowley's approach involves the concept of "assuming the desired outcome has been achieved." This goes beyond wishful thinking or mere positive affirmations; it involves embodying the emotion of already possessing your desire, as if the wish were already realized.

Believe the Desired Outcome Is Real, Not Just Hopeful

Assuming what you want has been met requires shifting from hoping and wishing to knowing and believing. This involves cultivating an unshakeable faith that what you desire is already yours, even if it hasn't yet manifested in your physical reality.

Affirm a New Self-Concept With "I Am" Statements

Cowley suggests using the powerful phrase "I am" to affirm your revised view of yourself. Instead of saying, "My goal is to be healthy," declare, "I am healthy," imbuing the statement with the feeling of its reality. This declaration is not a magical incantation but a powerful tool for aligning your inner state with your desired outcome.

Practical Tips

• Create a personalized "I am" affirmation deck by writing unique affirmations on index cards and shuffling them daily for a random empowering message. This can help reinforce a positive...

Assume the Best Summary Need For Persistence and Faith in Imagination's Power

Cowley emphasizes the necessity of persistence and unwavering faith in the face of challenges. Manifestation is not always instantaneous; it often requires patience and unwavering belief in the invisible forces you are setting in motion.

Assuming the New Reality Despite Setbacks or Doubts

Life inevitably throws curveballs. Challenges, setbacks, and moments of doubt are integral to the journey. The key is not to allow these experiences to derail you from your path. When you encounter obstacles, acknowledge them without judgment and gently redirect your focus back to the feeling of already having your desires.

Refusing to Let Contradictory "Facts" Change Your Mind

Often, the most challenging obstacles come from within ourselves. Your rational mind might try to convince you that your aspirations are impossible or unrealistic, using "facts" and "logic" to support its case. During these moments, remember you’re deliberately choosing to prioritize your creative mind—the force within you—over the limitations of the physical world.

Practical Tips

• Set up a monthly "Challenge the Impossible" meetup with friends or like-minded individuals. During these sessions,...