Psycho-Cybernetics

I recently read "Psycho-Cybernetics: Updated and Expanded" by Maxwell Maltz, and I can honestly say it’s one of the most impactful self-help books I’ve ever encountered. Originally published in the 1960s, this updated version brings the timeless principles of self-image psychology into the modern era, and it’s as relevant today as it was when first written.

 

The core of the book is centered around the concept that our self-image shapes our reality. Maltz, a pioneering plastic surgeon, observed that many of his patients, despite undergoing physical transformations, often struggled with low self-esteem or a poor self-image that wasn’t addressed by surgery. This led him to explore the powerful connection between mind and body, and he coined the term "psycho-cybernetics" to describe the process of reprogramming the subconscious mind to achieve greater success and happiness.

 

What makes this book so compelling is that it’s not just theory—it’s practical and actionable. Maltz provides clear techniques, visualizations, and exercises to help you identify and change limiting beliefs, build a positive self-image, and unlock your full potential. The “updated and expanded” version includes new insights, research, and additional exercises that bring even more value to the original material.

 

One of the key takeaways for me was learning how to reframe my thinking and stop sabotaging my own success due to negative self-talk. The emphasis on visualization and the idea of "success as a process instead of an end goal really resonated with me. Since reading the book, I’ve noticed a more positive outlook on challenges and greater self-confidence in both my personal and professional life.

 

If you're looking to make lasting changes in your mindset and achieve your goals, "Psycho-Cybernetics: Updated and Expanded" is an essential read. It’s practical, insightful, and transformative—offering valuable tools that can help you reshape your self-image and create the life you want. Highly recommended for anyone serious about personal growth and self-improvement!

Many years ago, I found the original edition of "Psycho-Cybernetics" by Maxwell Maltz, in a used bookstore. Back then, I read that book three times, because during each read, I became clearer about my life’s purpose, and about goals to support where I was in my life’s journey.

 

Now, in the summer of 2023, which is eight years after this current edition has been in circulation, I wondered if I would not only find answers to some compelling internal questions, I also wondered how different my experience would be in reading this edition.

 

First, because my original copy is being held together by a couple of rubber bands, it’s not easy to reread that copy – but, because I have many notes on every page of that seminal treasure, I’m keeping it.

 

With this new copy, a book that is 8" by 5", compared to 6 ¾’s by 4", I have room to really capture details, as they occur to me.

 

Each chapter, except that last one, ends with a "Key Points to Remember" page, where Dr. Maltz, asks readers to write 5 key points in their own words. On the next page, "Your Case History," Dr. Maltz asks readers to list an experience from their past that is explained by the principles in the chapter. I filled up all of the blank space in those chapter endings, because as I read this book, I gained insight into questions, attributes, concerns, and flaws that I wasn’t aware that I had.

 

Another interesting thought in reading this book, which was first published in 1960, is having read so many books on the Law of Attraction, which was a big topic at the beginning of this decade, "Psycho-Cybernetics" was already teaching this in 1960, just under a different name.

 

Read this book if you are willing and ready to: be more present, create and honor your own self-image, and be influential in all aspects of your life.

This book is so good!! Meant for anyone who struggles with low self-esteem. It is a game-changer.

 

I love the way the author discusses the link between our self-image and our conduct is which I think I found most fascinating about this book. The emphasis he has on visualization and mental practice really sets it apart. He advises readers to routinely partake in these mental simulations and to picture themselves achieving their goals. And I'll tell you, his suggestions are effective!

 

Do yourself a favor and read this book if you want to improve your self-image and fulfill your aspirations. Anyone and everyone should read this, I promise!

I have suffered anxiety for almost five years. My life was in a hole, and every day has been a struggle. No idea how I came across this book, but I liked the preface and ordered it. I have no words to express my gratitude to Dr. Maltz. He opens your mind so you realize how much we can do by managing thoughts. Then he gives clear exercises that, from day one, I feel have been helping me with my anxiety. Now I have clear goals in mind, know it's on me if I want to move forward or stand still. Now I know why my brothers are so successful, they have the same personality book mentions in giving humans success, it was like he was describing them in every detail! Thank you very much, Dr. Maltz. You have been a blessing to me.

Dr. Maltz work is easy to read and understand. This is not a book you simply read. You have to stop several times in every chapter and think about what you just read. Doing the exercises in the book has helped me through so much that therapy never touched. It helped me let go of the limiting beliefs I had and move forward in my character development. I'm just sorry the man died before I could meet him in person!

This book pinpoints the exact problem you've been trying to solve. The foundation of all your challenges is the conception you have of yourself. This conception is the source of all your thoughts, feelings, and actions, and if you can figure out how to alter it and make the effort, your thoughts, feelings, and actions will change with it effortlessly. This book shows you essentially step-by-step how to do it. It will teach you how to create a high-value, highly productive, happy self-image for yourself.

After seeing Psycho-Cybernetics recommended on multiple must-read lists, I knew I had to get it, and I’m so glad I did. This isn’t just a book you breeze through; it’s one that makes you pause, reflect, and truly absorb the concepts. I found myself slowing down often, not because it was difficult to read, but because it challenged me to think deeply about what I had just taken in. A thought-provoking and impactful read, indeed!

I have read countless self-help books. I can honestly say that after reading “Psycho-Cybernetics: Updated and Expanded” by Maxwell Maltz, I do not need to read another self-help book ever again. This book has it all. Incredible insight, along with extremely effective exercises that enable the reader to vividly see how to and experience the power of tapping into your subconscious mind.