Bruce Lee studied profound philosophers, both past & present. One such philosopher, was Dr Napoleon Hill (26 Oct 1883 – 8 Nov 1970), who wrote the bestseller book ‘Think & Grow Rich’.
He presented the idea of a “Definite Major Purpose” or “Chief Definite Aim” as a challenge to his readers in order to make them ask themselves, “In what do I truly believe?” According to Hill, 98% of people had few or no firm beliefs, and this alone put true success firmly out of their reach.
Bruce wrote the following “Chief Definite Aim” — at which time Bruce would have been 28 years of age and a minor TV star in the United States, having featured in a number of shows which included, most notably, the ill-fated Green Hornet series. With his second child recently born and no financial security to speak of, the clearly determined founder of Jeet Kune Do decided to put his “Definite Chief Aim” down on paper.
The rest is history.
Transcript
My Definite Chief Aim
I, Bruce Lee, will be the first highest paid Oriental super star in the United States. In return I will give the most exciting performances and render the best of quality in the capacity of an actor. Starting 1970 I will achieve world fame and from then onward till the end of 1980 I will have in my possession $10,000,000. I will live the way I please and achieve inner harmony and happiness.
Bruce Lee
1969
My Verdict
Bruce Lee died on 20 July 1973 at the young age of 32 years, 2 weeks before the release of his blockbuster movie ‘Enter the Dragon’. After Bruce’s death, ‘Enter the Dragon’ catapulted Bruce Lee into a superstar, not only in the USA, but worldwide. His exciting performances are revered today as the pinnacle of martial artistry, and Bruce’s legend and martial art Jeet Kune Do inspires millions worldwide.
‘Enter the Dragon’ grossed over $25 million in the US alone, so it’s probably safe to assume that the Bruce Lee Estate has exceeded £10 million in revenues.
As for inner peace and harmony, I personally feel that Bruce’s fame would have bought him unrest on Earth. Chillingly, I feel that his passing dealt him the ‘inner harmony and happiness’ that he longed, but in another universe.
As they say, “Be careful what you wish for?” On the same token, “If you don’t ask, you don’t get”. So why not live life to its truest potential by writing your own “Chief Definite Aim!’
