"The Secret of Success" is a self-help book written by William Walker Atkinson. This book, first published in 1907, is a classic in the genre of personal development literature. Atkinson was a prolific writer in the New Thought movement, which emphasized the power of positive thinking and the influence of thoughts on one's reality.

The central theme of "The Secret of Success" revolves around the idea that success is not solely determined by external factors, but it is strongly influenced by one's mental attitude, thoughts, and beliefs. Atkinson argues that the mind has a powerful creative force and that individuals can shape their destinies by harnessing the power of their thoughts.

The book delves into various aspects of success, including the importance of cultivating a positive mental attitude, setting clear goals, developing a strong will, and using the power of concentration. Atkinson provides practical advice and exercises to help readers apply these principles in their daily lives.

One key concept in the book is the Law of Attraction, which suggests that positive or negative thoughts bring positive or negative experiences into a person's life. Atkinson encourages readers to focus on positive thoughts and eliminate negative thinking to attract success and prosperity.

While "The Secret of Success" reflects the thinking of its time and contains elements of metaphysics, it has endured as a foundational work in the self-help genre. The book's emphasis on the role of the mind in achieving success has resonated with readers for over a century, and its ideas continue to influence contemporary self-help literature.