Florence Scovel Shinn
Florence Scovel Shinn was an American artist, author, and metaphysical teacher known
for her writings on positive thinking, affirmations, and spiritual laws. Her work, primarily
focused on the power of words and thought in shaping one's reality, has influenced the
New Thought movement and continues to be widely read and appreciated for its practical
spiritual guidance.
Biography of Florence Scovel Shinn
• Early Life and Education: Florence Scovel Shinn was born on September 24, 1871,
in Camden, New Jersey. She studied at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts,
where she trained as an artist and illustrator. She married artist Everett Shinn, but
the couple later divorced.
• Transition to Spiritual Teaching: In the 1920s, Florence began to share her
metaphysical ideas and teachings, which were grounded in the principles of New
Thought. She became known for her lectures and private counseling sessions,
where she taught the power of positive thought and affirmations.
• Writing Career: Shinn published her first book, "The Game of Life and How to Play
It," in 1925. This work laid the foundation for her philosophy, emphasizing the idea
that life is a game governed by spiritual laws, and understanding these laws is key
to living a fulfilling and successful life. She followed this with several other
influential books, including "Your Word is Your Wand," "The Secret Door to Success,"
and "The Power of the Spoken Word."
• Death and Legacy: Florence Scovel Shinn passed away on October 17, 1940.
Despite her relatively short career, her teachings have had a lasting impact,
influencing many in the fields of self-help and metaphysics. Her works are still
widely read today, appreciated for their clear, accessible language and practical
advice.
Key Teachings of Florence Scovel Shinn
1. The Power of Words and Affirmations: One of Shinn's central teachings is the
power of words. She believed that words have creative power and that by speaking
positive affirmations, individuals could shape their reality. She often said, "Your
word is your wand," suggesting that the words one uses can manifest desires and
create a better life.
2. The Law of Attraction: Shinn was an early proponent of the law of attraction, the
idea that like attracts like. She taught that maintaining positive thoughts and
emotions attracts positive experiences and outcomes, while negative thinking leads
to undesirable results.
3. The Game of Life: In her book "The Game of Life and How to Play It," Shinn presents
life as a game that can be played successfully by understanding and applying
spiritual laws. She emphasized the importance of faith, imagination, and love in
achieving success and happiness.
4. Intuition and Divine Guidance: Shinn taught that individuals should trust their
intuition and listen to divine guidance. She believed that each person has access to
inner wisdom and that by being open to this guidance, one can make decisions that
lead to prosperity and fulfillment.
5. Non-Resistance and Forgiveness: Shinn emphasized the importance of non-
resistance and forgiveness in spiritual practice. She believed that holding onto
resentment and anger blocks the flow of good into one's life and that forgiveness
releases these blocks, allowing for greater peace and abundance.
Impact and Legacy
Florence Scovel Shinn's teachings have had a profound influence on the New Thought
movement and the broader field of self-help and personal development. Her books,
characterized by their practical advice and clear, uplifting language, continue to inspire
readers worldwide.
Her emphasis on the power of words, positive thinking, and the law of attraction has
influenced many contemporary spiritual teachers and authors. Shinn's work is often cited
alongside other New Thought pioneers and continues to be a valuable resource for those
seeking to understand and apply spiritual principles in their lives. Her legacy lives on
through her timeless teachings, which continue to empower individuals to create the life
they desire through the power of thought, words, and faith.
