Neville Goddard (1905–1972) was a Barbadian-born writer, speaker, and mystic known for his self-help and New Thought philosophy centered on the idea that "imagination creates reality". He taught that human imagination is God and is the only creative force, a concept known as the Law of Assumption.

Key Teachings

Goddard's philosophy moves beyond simple positive thinking, emphasizing specific techniques for using the mind to shape one's life. His core principles include: 

  • The Law of Assumption: The core belief is that whatever you assume to be true will manifest in your outer world. The physical world is simply a manifestation of your internal state of consciousness.

  • Imagination Creates Reality: Goddard taught that the human imagination is the omnipotent creative force. To change your reality, you must control your imagination and "think from" the desired outcome, not just "think of" it.

  • Feeling is the Secret: It is not enough to visualize; you must evoke the emotions and feelings you would experience if your wish were already fulfilled. This feeling impresses the subconscious mind, which then works to bring the desire into physical form.

  • Living in the End: This technique involves consistently embodying the mental and emotional state of having already achieved your goal. You should think, act, and feel from the perspective of the person who has their desire fulfilled.

  • Revision: A revolutionary concept where you can alter your memories of past events to change their emotional impact on your present reality. By mentally replaying a past event with a more desirable outcome, you free yourself from limiting beliefs. 

Major Works

Neville Goddard authored several books that explain his metaphysical ideas and techniques, including: 

  • At Your Command (1939)

  • Your Faith Is Your Fortune (1941)

  • Feeling Is the Secret (1944)

  • Prayer - The Art of Believing (1946)

  • The Power of Awareness (1952)

  • Awakened Imagination (1954)

  • The Law and the Promise (1961)