CONCENTRATION 731We absorb the material for thought from our surrounding environ-
ment. The term environment covers a very broad field. It consists of
the books we read, the people with whom we associate, the country
and community in which we live, the nature of the work we do,
the clothes we wear, the songs we sing, and, most important of all,
the religious and intellectual training we receive prior to the age of
fourteen years.
The purpose of analyzing the subject of environment is to show
its direct relationship to the personality we are developing, and how
its influence will give us the materials out of which we may attain our
Definite Chief Aim in life.
The mind feeds upon that which we supply it, or that which is
forced upon it, through our environment. Therefore, let us select our
environment, as much as possible, with the object of supplying the
mind with suitable material out of which to carryon its work. If your
environment is not to your liking, change it!
The first step is to create in your own mind a clear, well-defined
picture of the environment in which you believe you could best attain
your Definite Chief Aim. Then concentrate your mind on this picture
until you transform it into reality.
Just as you learned in Lesson Two, A Definite Chief Aim, the first
step you must take in the accomplishment of any desire is to have in
your mind an exact picture of what it is that you intend to accomplish.
This is also the first principle to be observed in your plans for the
achievement of success, and if you fail to observe it you cannot succeed
except by chance.
Your daily associates constitute one of the most important and
influential parts of your environment, and they may work for your
progress or against it. As much as possible, you should select as your
closest daily associates those who are in sympathy with your aims
and ideals-especially those represented by your Definite Chief Aim.