Thinking (poem)

"Thinking" is a poem written by Walter D. Wintle, a poet who lived in the late 19th and early 20th century. Little to nothing is known about any details of his life. "Thinking" is also known as "The Man Who Thinks He Can".

In the 20th century, different versions of the poem have been published. To this date, it is unknown which version correctly represents the original version, but it is strongly believed that the version below, published at least as early as 1905 ("Unity" College Magazine), embodies the original and unaltered poem. The exact date of the first, original publication of "Thinking" is unknown.

Publications
Early publications of this poem - citing Walter D. Wintle as being the author - include:

1905 - Unity Published in 1905 by Unity Tract Society, Unity School of Christianity Called "Thinking", by Walter D. Wintle

1916 - Ohio Educational Monthly Published in 1916 by Ohio Education Association Called "Thinking", by Walter Wintle

1927 - The World's Best-loved Poems - By James Gilchrist Lawson Published in 1927 by Harper & Brothers Called "Thinking", by Walter D. Wintle

1931 - Ethics notebook for nurses Published in 1931 by Lippincott Called "Thinking", by Walter Wintle

1937 - Think and Grow Rich, by Napoleon Hill Published in 1937 by The Ralston Society Poem written without any credits (anonymous author)

1940 - The Filipino Nurse Published in 1940 by Philippine Nurses Association Called "Thinking", by Walter Wintle

Later sources gave this poem, which originally carried the title "Thinking", the title "The Man Who Thinks He Can" and "It's All In The State Of Mind". In recent years the title "The Man Who Thinks He Can" has been adapted as the (wrongfully) assumed correct and original title.

Poem
If you think you are beaten, you are; If you think you dare not, you don't. If you'd like to win, but you think you can't, It is almost a cinch you won't.

If you think you'll lose, you've lost; For out in this world we find Success begins with a fellow's will It's all in the state of mind.

If you think you're outclassed, you are; You've got to think high to rise. You've got to be sure of yourself before You can ever win the prize.

Life's battles don't always go To the stronger or faster man; But sooner or later the man who wins Is the man who thinks he can!

The Little Things & Such: Motivational Poems You Know and Love Now with Reflection Questions by Roger Edwardo