David Joseph Schwartz

David Joseph Schwartz – Life, Work, and Wisdom

Discover the life, ideas, and enduring legacy of David J. Schwartz (March 23, 1927 – December 6, 1987), American motivational writer and coach best known for The Magic of Thinking Big.

Introduction

David Joseph Schwartz, often known as David J. Schwartz, was an influential American motivational author, life strategist, and educator. Born March 23, 1927, he passed away December 6, 1987. Schwartz is best known for his classic self-help book The Magic of Thinking Big (1959), which inspired millions worldwide with its message: belief shapes behavior.

Though not a conventional “businessman,” Schwartz’s work profoundly impacted business leaders, sales professionals, and individuals seeking personal growth. His ideas about mindset, goal setting, and overcoming fear continue to be cited in motivational and entrepreneurial circles.

Early Life & Education

David J. Schwartz was born in the United States on March 23, 1927. University of Nebraska (earning a B.S. around 1948) Ohio State University, earning both an M.A. and a Ph.D. (in 1953)

His early career included working in education; he is also said to have taught in a rural school in Indiana before advancing into higher education and motivational work.

Academic Career & Transition to Motivational Writing

Schwartz joined Georgia State University in Atlanta, where he served as a professor of marketing, later becoming chairman of his department and also holding the role of Chair of Consumer Finance.

While in academia, he began developing his ideas about motivation, belief, and performance. His work bridged the gap between research and application—turning conceptual insight into practical guidance for individuals and organizations.

Around 1959, he published The Magic of Thinking Big, which became his signature work and launched his reputation beyond academia.

He later left (or supplemented) his academic career to serve as a motivational coach, life strategist, and consultant; he also founded Creative Educational Services, Inc., a leadership development and coaching firm.

Major Work: The Magic of Thinking Big and Other Writings

The Magic of Thinking Big

Released in 1959, The Magic of Thinking Big is perhaps Schwartz’s most enduring work. The book argues that success is less about extraordinary intellect and more about cultivating large belief, bold goals, and consistent action. Key themes include:

• Overcoming negative mental habits (e.g. self-doubt, procrastination)

• Thinking beyond one’s current circumstances

• Translating thoughts into action

• Cultivating a mindset of possibility

Over the decades, it has sold millions of copies and is considered a classic in the self-improvement and business genres.

Other Works & Contributions

Schwartz produced several other books and guidance works over his career, including:

• The Magic of Getting What You Want (1983)

• Maximize Your Mental Power

• Magic of Thinking Success

• Works on marketing, management, and personal development (e.g. Marketing Words and Concepts)

His approach combined motivational insight and marketing/behavioral understanding, making his teachings especially relevant to professionals, salespeople, and leaders.

Philosophy, Approach & Key Ideas

David J. Schwartz’s philosophy centers on belief as a driver. Some core ideas:

• “Belief triggers the power to do.” Belief isn’t mere wishful thinking—it shapes how the mind searches for solutions and acts.

• Action cures fear. Instead of waiting to feel ready, one acts despite fear, which lessens it. (As one of his quotes: “Action cures fear.”)

• Do what you do better, and do more of it. Excellence and consistency compound results.

• For every situation, there is a “good side.” Seeing potential and opportunity reframes challenges.

• Attitudes are mirrors of the mind. They reflect thinking. He emphasized that how one thinks shows in behavior and outcomes.

Schwartz often criticized “excuse-itis” (making excuses) and other mental barriers as enemies of progress. He encouraged readers to stretch their thinking, take bigger goals, and reject limiting beliefs.

His style was straightforward, practical, and aimed at personal as well as professional life—bridging mindset and execution.

Legacy & Impact

Though Schwartz died on December 6, 1987 (at age 60) , his legacy continues strongly:

• The Magic of Thinking Big remains in print, often recommended in business, leadership, sales, and personal development circles

• His ideas are quoted and adapted widely; many motivational teachers reference his principles

• Georgia State University honors him via a scholarship in his name

• His writings influenced countless readers to adopt more ambitious mindsets alongside disciplined action

Though not a traditional industrialist or entrepreneur, his intellectual influence has shaped how many approach business, leadership, and personal growth.

Notable Quotes

Here are several memorable quotes by David J. Schwartz that capture his philosophy:

• “Do what you fear and fear disappears.”

• “Action cures fear. Indecision, postponement, on the other hand, fertilize fear.”

• “How we think shows through in how we act. Attitudes are mirrors of the mind. They reflect thinking.”

• “Believe, really believe, you can move a mountain, and you can.”

• “There is a good side to every situation.”

• “The success combination in business is: Do what you do better... and: do more of what you do.”

• “The ‘Okay-I’ll-give-it-a-try-but-I don’t think it will work’ attitude produces failures.”

These quotes reflect his conviction that mindset and action must align to produce meaningful results.

Lessons and Takeaways

From David J. Schwartz’s life and work, here are lessons one might draw:

1. Big thinking matters. Setting high goals expands what you consider possible.

2. Belief is actionable. When belief is strong, it guides your decisions and fuels effort.

3. Fear is overcome by doing. Waiting for all fears to vanish before acting is a trap.

4. Excellence + volume = impact. Doing what you do well and doing it more often yields results.

5. Attitude is visible. Your inner thinking shows in your actions, relationships, and outcomes.

6. Consistency outlasts flash. Long-term influence often grows from steady values and insight rather than fads.