The Science of Getting Rich by Wallace D. Wattles is a practical guide that blends philosophy, faith, and actionable principles for wealth creation. First published in 1910, it continues to inspire readers who seek prosperity through disciplined thought and purposeful action. Unlike many motivational texts, this book presents wealth-building as an exact science, not a matter of luck.
Table of Contents
Who May Benefit from the Book
- Individuals seeking financial improvement through structured thinking and action.
- Entrepreneurs desiring practical guidance for sustainable wealth creation.
- Readers interested in self-help and prosperity literature.
- Professionals aiming to balance spiritual growth with material success.
- Anyone curious about the philosophy of abundance and prosperity.
Top 3 Key Insights
- Wealth creation is an exact science governed by universal laws.
- Thoughts shape reality, and a clear mental vision backed by faith attracts riches.
- True prosperity comes from creative action, not competition, by adding value to others.
4 More Lessons and Takeaways
- Gratitude connects to abundance: A grateful mind stays in harmony with universal intelligence, ensuring continuous flow of wealth.
- Faith fuels action: Strong belief prevents doubt and directs energy toward purposeful actions that open channels of opportunity.
- Efficiency over quantity: Success results from doing each act well, with focus and commitment, rather than attempting too much.
- Impression of increase: Every interaction should leave others better off, reinforcing the principle of advancing life for all.
The Book in 1 Sentence
Wealth comes through faith-driven thought, gratitude, and purposeful action aligned with universal laws of abundance and creativity.
The Book Summary in 1 Minute
Wattles explains that getting rich is not luck but a science. He argues that thought shapes reality, and by holding a clear vision of wealth, infused with faith and gratitude, individuals can manifest abundance. Success requires efficient action in the present, shifting from competition to creation, and always giving more in use value than taken in cash.
The Book Summary in 7 Minutes
The Right to be Rich
Wattles begins by affirming that everyone has the right to be rich. A fulfilling life requires money, as it enables full expression of body, mind, and soul. Poverty restricts growth, while wealth empowers one to serve others. The desire for riches is a natural desire for more abundant life.
Wealth as a Science
He stresses that getting rich follows universal laws, much like mathematics. Anyone can become wealthy by acting in a “Certain Way.” This approach is independent of environment or luck and works with certainty when applied faithfully.
Abundance and Opportunity
Opportunity is not monopolized. Though industries may be controlled, new opportunities constantly arise. The universe, made of Formless Substance, is inexhaustible. Poverty persists only because people fail to act in the Certain Way.
The Power of Thought
Thought is the creative force that shapes reality. By impressing ideas upon Formless Substance, desired results take form. To succeed, one must think abundance, not poverty, and maintain a clear mental picture of desired wealth.
Increasing Life
The universe seeks constant expansion. Riches align with this purpose, as they allow greater expression of life. The focus should be on creation rather than competition. True wealth benefits all, as no gain is achieved at another’s expense.
How Riches Come
Wealth flows through existing channels of trade and commerce. To attract it, one must offer more in use value than received in cash. Holding a vivid vision, backed by certainty, ensures that opportunities align to deliver riches.
The Role of Gratitude
Gratitude keeps the mind aligned with abundance and prevents drifting into fear of scarcity. A thankful spirit maintains harmony with Formless Substance, ensuring continuous flow of blessings. Gratitude naturally strengthens faith.
Thinking in the Certain Way
Desires must be clearly defined. Vague wishes cannot impress Formless Substance. Faith, purpose, and gratitude must accompany the vision, creating a mental attitude of ownership before the riches appear physically.
Using the Will Correctly
The will should be applied only to oneself, not others. It strengthens discipline, keeps focus on abundance, and avoids distractions like poverty consciousness. True willpower compels persistent faith-driven action.
Acting Now
Action is crucial. Wealth does not appear by thought alone; one must act effectively in the present environment. Each task should be performed with excellence, regardless of current circumstances, while remaining aligned with future vision.
Efficient Action
Success depends not on doing more, but on doing each act efficiently. Faith and purpose must be infused into every effort. Small but effective actions compound to create large results.
Choosing the Right Business
Any business can bring wealth if approached in the Certain Way. True success comes from work one genuinely desires, aligning with inner purpose. Desire signals innate capacity to succeed in that field.
Conveying Increase
Every interaction should leave others with an impression of increase. People naturally seek growth, and when they sense advancement, they remain connected. Giving more in use value ensures lasting prosperity.
The Advancing Man
Wage earners, professionals, and entrepreneurs alike can apply these principles. Success radiates when individuals infuse faith and purpose into their work, uplifting everyone they encounter. The advancing person inspires confidence and attracts opportunities.
Final Cautions and Observations
Wealth is not blocked by governments or systems. Challenges dissolve when one acts with faith, gratitude, and persistence. Speaking of failure or entertaining doubts disrupts the creative process. True failures often redirect toward better outcomes.
The Summary Science
The book condenses into clear steps:
- Think in harmony with Formless Substance.
- Hold a definite vision of riches.
- Maintain unwavering faith and gratitude.
- Act efficiently in the present.
- Provide more in use value than taken in cash.
- Advance yourself and others simultaneously.
About the Author
Wallace D. Wattles (1860–1911) was an American writer and pioneer in the self-help movement. Despite personal struggles and financial challenges, he studied widely in philosophy, religion, and social reform. His works emphasize the creative power of thought and practical methods for personal growth. The Science of Getting Rich remains his most influential book, inspiring countless prosperity thinkers and motivational writers.
How to Get the Best of the Book
Read with an open mind, apply principles daily, and practice gratitude. Focus on efficient action, not mere theory, and stay consistent.
Conclusion
Wattles presents wealth-building as a predictable process rooted in thought, faith, gratitude, and action. His method promotes abundance for all, rejecting competition for creation. Anyone who follows this disciplined approach with persistence can achieve both prosperity and personal fulfillment.