You Can, But Will You? - 6. HAVE YOU THE ALLEY-CAT CONSCIOUSNESS? - Orison Swett Marden (1920) - HQ Full Book.In Chapter Six of *You Can, But Will You?*, titled "Have You The Alley-Cat Consciousness?", Orison Swett Marden delves into the profound impact of self-perception on personal success and fulfillment. This chapter uses the allegory of an alley cat and a Persian cat to illustrate how one’s mental attitude—specifically, the belief in one’s worth and potential—shapes life’s outcomes. Marden argues that holding an "alley-cat consciousness," a mindset marked by feelings of inferiority and limitation, traps individuals in mediocrity, while adopting a confident, self-affirming mindset can lead to transformation and achievement. Through vivid storytelling, psychological insights, and practical advice, Marden urges readers to reject negative self-images and embrace their divine potential to create a life of success, happiness, and purpose.  The chapter opens with a fable recounted by Dr. Joseph Perry Green about an alley cat envious of a Persian cat’s favorable treatment. The alley cat, shunned and abused, contrasts sharply with the pampered Persian cat, who is loved and admired. When the alley cat asks why they are treated so differently, the Persian cat attributes her success to her self-assured mindset: “I know I am some cat!” She advises the alley cat to change her self-perception by affirming her own worth, repeating, “I am a wonderful cat; everybody loves me, everybody is kind to me.” By adopting this “Persian cat consciousness,” the alley cat gradually transforms her treatment and condition, proving that self-belief can alter one’s reality. Marden uses this allegory to underscore a central theme: the mental image we hold of ourselves directly influences our circumstances, shaping whether we experience happiness or misery, growth or stagnation.  Marden expands this idea, asserting that an “alley-cat consciousness”—a belief in one’s inferiority—keeps capable individuals trapped in mediocre lives. He emphasizes that our thoughts are creative forces, building our reality according to the mental patterns we hold. If we visualize ourselves as deficient, unattractive, or incapable, these thoughts perpetuate those conditions in our lives. Conversely, by holding a higher ideal of ourselves, we can unlock qualities and opportunities that align with that vision. Marden stresses that this principle is universal: “Whatever we believe ourselves to be will be built into the life by the creative forces within us.” The alley cat’s transformation illustrates that changing one’s mindset can lead to tangible improvements in appearance, circumstances, and social standing, even without inherent advantages.  The chapter explores how negative self-perceptions often stem from early influences, such as parents or teachers who label children as dull or inferior. Marden considers it a “crime” to instill such beliefs, as they become deeply ingrained convictions that limit potential. He cites examples of individuals with immense capabilities who remain stuck in small, unfulfilling lives due to these early impressions. To counter this, Marden advocates for nurturing children with expectations of success and belief in their God-given potential. He argues that every child should be taught to see themselves as destined for greatness, capable of developing their unique talents to serve humanity. This positive conditioning, he believes, sets the foundation for a life of achievement and fulfillment.  Marden draws a historical parallel to illustrate the harm of branding oneself with inferiority, comparing it to the cruel practice of marking slaves or criminals with physical brands like “I am a fugitive.” While society no longer physically brands individuals, many people mentally mark themselves as inferior, carrying a “minus self” image that undermines their confidence and aspirations. He urges readers to reject this mindset and instead assert their divine heritage as “kings” and “gods in the making.” By holding a “plus self” image—visualizing oneself as capable, confident, and worthy—individuals can align their actions and outcomes with their highest potential.  The chapter emphasizes the role of creative principles within us as “success builders” and “happiness determiners.” Marden explains that these inner forces manifest whatever thoughts we consistently impress upon them, whether positive or negative. Quoting Saint Paul’s advice to “think on these things” that are pure, true, and of good report, Marden aligns this biblical wisdom with modern psychology, advocating for a constructive mental attitude. He warns that dwelling on doubts, fears, or deficiencies drives away the very things we desire, such as success, health, and happiness. Instead, he encourages readers to focus on positive, uplifting thoughts to attract these outcomes.  Marden provides practical guidance for overcoming the alley-cat consciousness. He advises readers to reject thoughts of inferiority, even if reinforced by others’ opinions or childhood conditioning. Instead, they should hold a mental image of themselves as they aspire to be—confident, capable, and successful. This involves not only thinking positively but also acting the part: walking, speaking, and carrying oneself with the assurance of success. For example, to achieve health, one should think, speak, and act as if already healthy; to achieve success, one should embody the demeanor of a successful person. Marden stresses that our outward manner, appearance, and conversation reflect our inner beliefs, serving as “bulletin boards” that advertise our self-perception to the world.  The chapter also critiques the “poverty consciousness” that leads individuals to live frugally, seeking bargains and settling for inferiority in clothing, food, or environment. Marden shares the story of a talented man who, despite his ambition, remains unprosperous at sixty due to a lifelong habit of economizing and denying himself quality. This “can’t afford it” mindset, rooted in early struggles, limits his social standing and influence. Marden argues that such a mentality cheapens one’s life and prevents the realization of full potential. Instead, he advocates for a generous, abundant mindset that aligns with one’s divine inheritance as a child of the universe, entitled to prosperity and joy.  Marden concludes by challenging readers to recognize their inherent worth and limitless possibilities. He invokes Walt Whitman’s affirmation, “I myself am good fortune,” to inspire confidence in one’s divine heritage. Rather than seeing themselves as paupers, readers should embrace their role as heirs to the universe’s abundance—love, truth, beauty, and power. By consistently holding a positive, expansive vision of themselves, individuals can transform their lives, unlocking opportunities and achieving their highest aspirations. The chapter’s core message is clear: our destiny follows our habitual consciousness, and by rejecting the alley-cat mindset, we can climb to the heights of superiority and fulfillment.  In summary, Chapter Six of *You Can, But Will You?* is a powerful exploration of how self-perception shapes reality. Through the allegory of the alley cat and practical psychological insights, Marden illustrates the transformative power of adopting a positive, self-affirming mindset. By rejecting inferiority and embracing their divine potential, readers can overcome limitations, attract success, and live lives of purpose and abundance.  #AlleyCatConsciousness #OrisonSwettMarden #SelfPerception #MindsetMatters #OvercomeInferiority #PositiveThinking #SelfBelief #MentalAttitude #SuccessMindset #TransformYourLife #DivinePotential #ChangeYourThoughts #SelfConfidence #CreativeMind #RejectLimitations #ThinkSuccess #EmbraceYourWorth #PositiveMindset #InnerPower #LiveYourPotential