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The Science of Getting Rich cover
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The Science of Getting Rich

Wallace D. Wattles (1910)

Genre

Business / Economics / Finance / Philosophy / Self-Help

Reading Time

146 min

Key Themes

See below

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Understand the universe's 'thinking substance' and create wealth through focused thought and action, improving your life and those around you.

Core Idea

Wealth comes not from environment, talent, or luck, but from thinking and acting in a "Certain Way." This means forming a clear mental picture of what you want, holding onto it with faith and gratitude, and taking effective action. The goal is to provide more in value than you receive in money. By aligning thoughts and actions with the Universal Substance (or "Thinking Stuff") that makes up everything, people can consciously create their desired riches without competing or exploiting others.
Reading time
146 min
Difficulty
Easy
✓ Read this if...
You believe in the power of mind over matter and are looking for a philosophical, almost spiritual, framework for wealth creation that emphasizes gratitude, faith, and a specific mental approach.
✗ Skip this if...
You prefer practical, actionable financial advice based on modern economics, market analysis, or traditional investment strategies, and are skeptical of metaphysical or New Thought principles.

Core idea

The central argument and framework that powers the entire book.

Wealth comes not from environment, talent, or luck, but from thinking and acting in a "Certain Way." This means forming a clear mental picture of what you want, holding onto it with faith and gratitude, and taking effective action. The goal is to provide more in value than you receive in money. By aligning thoughts and actions with the Universal Substance (or "Thinking Stuff") that makes up everything, people can consciously create their desired riches without competing or exploiting others.

At a glance

Reading time

146 min

Difficulty

Easy

Read this if...

You believe in the power of mind over matter and are looking for a philosophical, almost spiritual, framework for wealth creation that emphasizes gratitude, faith, and a specific mental approach.

Skip this if...

You prefer practical, actionable financial advice based on modern economics, market analysis, or traditional investment strategies, and are skeptical of metaphysical or New Thought principles.

Key Takeaways

1

The Thinking Stuff

All wealth originates from a fundamental, intelligent substance responsive to thought.

Quote

There is a thinking stuff from which all things are made, and which, in its original state, permeates, penetrates, and fills the interspaces of the universe. A thought, in this substance, produces the thing that is imaged by the thought.

Wattles introduces the idea of 'Formless Stuff' or 'Thinking Stuff' as the first substance from which everything in the universe is made. This substance is intelligent, responsive, and always seeking to express more life. The main idea is that by holding a clear, consistent thought or image of what you want, this substance will begin to create that reality. This is not just wishful thinking; it is a scientific process where mental images, held with faith and purpose, activate the universe's creative power. It suggests that poverty is ...

Supporting evidence

The entire premise of the book rests on this foundational metaphysical concept, which Wattles presents as a 'scientific' truth, not a philosophical speculation. He doesn't cite external studies but rather presents it as a self-evident law of the universe, akin to gravity, once understood.

Apply this

Cultivate a daily practice of clear visualization and affirmation of your desired financial state and specific wealth goals. Don't just wish for money; visualize yourself living the life money enables, experiencing the joy and purpose it brings. Hold this image steadfastly, believing in its eventual manifestation through the 'Thinking Stuff.'

formless-stuffcreative-substancelaw-of-attraction
2

The Right to Be Rich

It is an inherent right and moral imperative to pursue and achieve wealth for a full life.

Quote

You are right in wanting to be rich. If you are a normal man or woman you cannot help wanting to be rich. It is perfectly right that you should desire to live a life of comfort, luxury, and abundance.

Wattles states that the desire for wealth is natural and good. He argues that a person cannot live a truly full life without enough money. He challenges the common spiritual idea that poverty is good, saying that true spiritual and intellectual growth is hindered by constant struggle. To live fully, one must be able to develop physically, mentally, and spiritually, and this requires material resources. So, pursuing wealth is not selfish; it is a necessary step towards self-improvement and helping the world more.

Supporting evidence

Wattles argues that 'man wants to live a full life, and this means the full exercise of all his faculties.' He illustrates that to develop intellectually, one needs books, travel, and leisure; to develop spiritually, one needs to give and experience beauty; and physically, one needs good food, comfortable surroundings, and rest. All these require money.

Apply this

Release any guilt or shame associated with desiring wealth. Embrace your ambition to be rich as a natural and healthy drive toward a more complete existence. Articulate *why* you want to be rich beyond mere accumulation – what greater good, experience, or contribution will it enable?

abundance-mindsetspiritual-wealthself-actualization
3

Creation, Not Competition

Wealth is generated through creative thought and action, not by taking from others.

Quote

You are to become a creator, not a competitor. You are going to get what you want, but in such a way that when you get it every other man will have more than he has now.

A main idea in Wattles' philosophy is the difference between competing and creating. He strongly rejects the idea that wealth is a zero-sum game, where one person's gain means another's loss. Instead, he believes that true wealth is made by bringing new value into existence from the 'Formless Stuff.' By focusing on creation, you add to the overall abundance of the universe, making sure that as you get rich, you also enrich others. This view changes the mindset from scarcity and rivalry to one of infinite possibility and mutual benefit...

Supporting evidence

Wattles argues that the 'Formless Stuff' is inexhaustible, and there is no limit to the amount of wealth that can be created. He explains that if you make something better, or provide a superior service, you are not taking from someone else, but rather expanding the total good available to all.

Apply this

Focus on how you can add unique value and create new opportunities through your work or business, rather than trying to outperform or undercut competitors. Seek ways to innovate, serve, and solve problems in a manner that benefits your customers and community, knowing that your prosperity will naturally follow.

abundance-principlevalue-creationnon-zero-sum
4

The Exact Mental Image

A clear, detailed mental picture of your desired outcome is crucial for manifestation.

Quote

You must form a clear and definite mental image of what you want to have, to do, or to be. It is not enough to have a general desire for more money; you must know exactly what you want to do with the money.

Vague desires lead to vague results. Wattles emphasizes the need to form a precise, clear, and detailed mental image of your desired future. This means not just wishing for 'more money,' but imagining the specific house, car, lifestyle, experiences, and even the feeling of having reached your goals. The 'Thinking Stuff' needs a clear plan to work with; an unclear image will not become real. This mental image must be held consistently, with strong faith, acting as a magnet that attracts the desired circumstances to you.

Supporting evidence

Wattles emphasizes that 'the more distinct and definite your image, the more rapidly it will be clothed in objective form.' He uses the analogy of a sculptor needing a clear vision before carving a statue, or an architect needing blueprints before building a house.

Apply this

Dedicate time daily to vividly visualize your ideal life, including specific details like colors, textures, sounds, and emotions. Create a vision board with precise images representing your goals. Write down detailed descriptions of your desired possessions and experiences, engaging all your senses in the mental rehearsal.

visualizationmental-blueprintspecific-intention
5

Act in a Certain Way

Thought must be coupled with purposeful, efficient action in the present moment.

Quote

You must make your thought a reality by acting in a Certain Way. You cannot get rich by thought alone; you must combine your thought with action.

While mental imagery and faith are very important, Wattles makes it clear they are not enough on their own. You must 'act in a Certain Way,' meaning taking efficient, purposeful action now, always in line with your bigger vision. This 'Certain Way' involves doing 'whatever your hands find to do' with excellence and with the firm belief that every action helps bring your wealth to life. It is about making the most of your current chances and doing more than required, while keeping the mental image of your desired future. Inaction, or a...

Supporting evidence

Wattles provides practical advice: 'Do not wait for an opportunity to be everything you want to be; act where you are and upon what you have.' He emphasizes doing 'more than your present place requires,' and giving 'every person more in use value than you take from him in cash value.'

Apply this

Identify the most impactful actions you can take today in your current job or business, however small, that align with your ultimate vision. Execute these tasks with enthusiasm, excellence, and a sense of purpose, knowing they are steps towards your larger goal. Avoid procrastination and aimless activity.

purposeful-actionefficient-executionpresent-moment-action
6

Gratitude and Faith

Maintaining a state of gratitude and unwavering faith accelerates the manifestation process.

Quote

The grateful mind is constantly fixed upon the best; therefore it tends to become the best; it takes the form or character of the best, and will receive the best.

Gratitude is more than just a pleasant feeling; it is a strong mental position that connects you with the universe's creative forces. By being truly grateful for what you have, and even for what is coming to you, you acknowledge the abundance that already exists and show you are ready for more. This state of gratitude builds strong faith, which is the belief that your desires are already on their way. Doubt, fear, and ingratitude, conversely, send mixed signals to the 'Formless Stuff,' delaying or preventing what you want. These are...

Supporting evidence

Wattles explains that gratitude 'brings your mind into closer touch with the Source from which blessings flow.' He contrasts this with ingratitude, which 'disconnects you from the good' and focuses on lack.

Apply this

Start and end each day by listing specific things you are grateful for, including aspects of your life that reflect your desired future, even if they haven't fully manifested yet. Practice expressing gratitude verbally and in writing. Cultivate an unwavering belief in the certainty of your success, even in the face of temporary setbacks.

gratitude-practiceunwavering-faithpositive-vibration
7

The Impression of Increase

Always convey a sense of growth and advancement in every interaction and transaction.

Quote

You must communicate the impression of increase to all with whom you come in contact, so that every person who deals with you will feel that he is advanced by doing so.

This is an important ethical and strategic rule. Wattles insists that to get rich, you must make everyone you deal with feel that they are benefiting and improving because of their connection to you. Whether it is an employee, customer, supplier, or friend, your presence should inspire a feeling of growth, opportunity, and a better life. This is not manipulation; it is about truly adding value and creating an environment where others succeed. This 'impression of increase' creates a strong ripple effect, naturally attracting more wealt...

Supporting evidence

Wattles states, 'Give every man more in use value than you take from him in cash value.' He suggests that 'if you are an employer, you must make sure that your employees advance, both personally and financially, by working for you.'

Apply this

In every professional and personal interaction, ask yourself: 'How can I make this person feel better, more capable, or more prosperous through this exchange?' Always strive to deliver more value than expected, whether through your products, services, or even just your positive attitude and helpfulness.

value-exchangemutual-benefitpositive-influence
8

Overcoming Mental Barriers

Conquer doubt, fear, and competitive thinking to maintain focus on your vision.

Quote

Do not think for a moment that you can be rich by holding the thought of poverty. Do not permit your mind to dwell upon the disadvantages of poverty, or to picture yourself in a state of lack.

Wattles spends much time on the mental barriers that stop people from getting rich. He warns against focusing on poverty, sickness, or any form of lack, as these thoughts attract similar realities. The mind must be strictly trained to focus only on the desired outcome and the 'Formless Stuff's' ability to provide it. Doubt and fear are especially damaging, as they send mixed signals and weaken the faith needed for things to happen. Overcoming these barriers requires constant watchfulness, mental discipline, and consciously directing t...

Supporting evidence

Wattles explicitly states, 'You must never think or speak of yourself, or of your affairs, in terms of failure; you must not admit the possibility of failure.' He also advises against reading articles or engaging in conversations that focus on economic hardship or competitive struggles.

Apply this

Actively challenge and reframe negative thoughts about money or your ability to get rich. Replace them immediately with affirmations of abundance and success. Limit exposure to news or conversations that foster a scarcity mindset. Practice mindfulness to observe your thoughts and consciously steer them towards your desired reality.

mindset-shiftlimiting-beliefspositive-affirmation
9

The Power of Decision

Make a firm, unwavering decision to be rich, and commit to the 'Certain Way'.

Quote

The moment you make a supreme decision to be rich, you set in motion a train of circumstances that will bring you to your goal. Wavering purpose is the one thing that will prevent you from getting what you want.

Wattles implies that the first, firm decision to get rich is a key turning point. It is not enough to just wish for wealth; you must make a strong, irreversible commitment to it. This decision acts as a powerful instruction to the 'Thinking Stuff' and yourself, aligning all your later thoughts and actions. A wavering purpose, indecision, or half-hearted effort will yield no results. Once the decision is made, the path to 'getting rich' becomes a 'science' — a series of definite steps that, when followed exactly, guarantee success.

Supporting evidence

Wattles reiterates throughout the book that 'there is a certain way of thinking and acting, the doing of which will infallibly bring riches.' He stresses that the 'science of getting rich' is exact, and success is guaranteed for those who follow its principles without deviation.

Apply this

Formally declare your intention to become rich. Write it down, perhaps as a personal manifesto. Recommit to this decision daily, reminding yourself of your purpose and the 'Certain Way' you will follow. When faced with choices, always opt for the action that aligns with your ultimate decision to get rich.

definite-purposeunwavering-commitmentintentional-living
10

Giving More in Use Value

Always provide more value than you receive in monetary terms to ensure sustained prosperity.

Quote

You must give every man more in use value than you take from him in cash value; then you are adding to the life of the world by every business transaction.

This rule is a practical use of the 'creation, not competition' philosophy. Wattles argues that for continuous prosperity, you must always offer more in terms of usefulness, benefit, or service than the monetary price you charge. This is not about underpricing your work, but about making sure the recipient feels they have received exceptional value. By doing so, you contribute positively to the economy, build trust and goodwill, and ensure that people will naturally want to do business with you again. This generosity of value creates ...

Supporting evidence

Wattles explains, 'You must get rid of the old idea that you must get rich by shrewd dealing or by bargaining.' Instead, he advocates for a system where 'every man who comes in contact with you should go away feeling that he has received more than he gave.'

Apply this

Review your products, services, and even your daily interactions. Identify ways to consistently over-deliver on value. This could mean exceptional customer service, unexpected bonuses, higher quality than anticipated, or simply going the extra mile. Focus on solving problems and enhancing the lives of those you serve.

value-propositioncustomer-centricityethical-wealth

Critical analysis

Notable Quotes

“There is a thinking stuff from which all things are made, and which, in its original state, permeates, penetrates, and fills the interspaces of the universe.”

— Introducing the fundamental concept of 'Formless Stuff' or 'Thinking Stuff' as the origin of all creation.

“A man can get what he wants, but he must get it through faith and purpose.”

— Emphasizing the importance of belief and clear intention in the process of creation and accumulation.

“The great secret of life is to put yourself in touch with the Formless Substance in such a way as to draw out of it what you want.”

— Highlighting the core mechanism of 'getting rich' by aligning one's thoughts with the creative substance.

“You must get rid of the idea that in order to get rich you must take things away from others.”

— Countering the competitive paradigm of wealth acquisition, asserting that true wealth creation is not zero-sum.

“Your thought, holding the vision of what you want, is the force which draws it to you.”

— Explaining the direct causal link between a clear mental image and its materialization.

“You must make your thought a creative force, not a destructive one.”

— Warning against negative thinking and emphasizing the need for constructive mental patterns.

“To think what you want to think is to think TRUTH, regardless of appearances.”

— Encouraging the reader to maintain their desired vision despite current circumstances or 'facts'.

“Give every man more in use value than you take from him in cash value.”

— Providing an ethical principle for business and exchange, ensuring mutual benefit and continuous growth.

“Gratitude is the attitude of the soul toward the Formless Substance.”

— Identifying gratitude as a crucial emotional state for aligning with and receiving from the creative source.

“You can never get rich by doing certain things unless you do them in a Certain Way.”

— Stressing that success isn't just about actions, but the specific mindset and approach behind them.

“Action is the necessary complement to thought; you must not only think, but you must act.”

— Clarifying that while thought is primary, physical action is essential to bring desires into reality.

“Do not wait for an opportunity to be all that you want to be; begin where you are and be all that you can be.”

— Encouraging immediate application of principles and self-improvement, regardless of current circumstances.

“The purpose of life is growth, and everything that lives must be continually growing or else it will die.”

— Framing wealth as a means to facilitate life's inherent drive for expansion and fuller expression.

“The man who thinks only of himself, and plans only for his own advancement, cannot be rich.”

— Suggesting that true and lasting wealth is tied to contributing to the advancement and well-being of others.

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The book posits that there is a 'thinking stuff' from which all things are made, and that by holding a clear mental image of what one desires, this substance will bring it into existence. It emphasizes the power of thought and intention in wealth creation.

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