METAPHYSICAL MILLIONAIRES

A capitalist explores New Age ideas in this self-help guide.

Purcell argues that spirituality and corporate success are not at odds with each other; in fact, the former can inform the latter. The author founded a software company and sold it, making him a millionaire: “I had set an intention to do something meaningful and manifest financial independence years before. And if you want to, you can do it too.” In addition to drawing on his own experiences, he describes paranormal concepts such as “pre-sentiment,” or “a metaphysical phenomenon in which humans have been shown to physiologically react to emotionally disturbing images up to six seconds before seeing them.” Throughout the book, Purcell urges readers to cultivate “openness” and “Universal Love,” both of which, he argues, are conducive to professional success. The manual includes anecdotes from a variety of millionaires, such as Oprah Winfrey and Elon Musk. The chapter entitled “The Space Between Thoughts” features the meditation rituals of Jerry Seinfeld, former NBA coach Phil Jackson, hedge fund leader Ray Dalio, and others. In addition to meditating, the author urges readers to write gratitude lists and practice scientific prayer, which he describes in detail in the volume’s final chapter. (“Scientific prayer is a structured process that systematically optimizes your vibrational signature and increases your resonance with the creative mind of the Universe.”) In a time when millionaire has become somewhat of a dirty word, Purcell’s book seems a bit brazen. But the author suggests that readers should question why they want wealth: “Even a person whose primary conscious desire is money—upon repeated and deeper probing—will eventually reveal an expectation that money will put them in a position where they are more likely to experience love.” Early chapters, which describe string theory and “higher laws,” tend to lag. But readers will certainly enjoy learning about the spiritual life of Steve Jobs, among others. The guide often feels like a backstage pass to the routines of great minds, where inspiration abounds.

After a sluggish start, this manual offers unlikely and refreshing motivational advice.