The Science of Getting Rich is a classic that was first published in 1961. Wallace Wattles in this short and concise book describes the exact science that you can use to get rich. His book is simple but yet profound, and Wallace believed that it would replace so many self-help, philosophical and spiritual books even in its simplicity.
Wallace goes on to promise that if you can understand the principles in his book and go on to implement them, then this might be the only book you need to read on how to get rich. This ‘The Science of Getting Rich’ summary of a book that already feels like a summary will give you a hint of the profound teachings you will get from this classic.
Right to be Rich – the opening statement to the book will change your thinking entirely about being rich and being poor. “Whatever may be said in praise of poverty, the fact remains that it is not possible to live a really complete or successful life unless one is rich.” He goes further to explain what it means to have the right to be rich as the right to life. Therefore there is nothing wrong in wanting to be rich.
There is a Science of Getting Rich – he states that there are certain laws that need to be followed strictly if a man is to acquire riches and when they are followed then getting rich becomes certain. To get rich therefore you have to do things “in a certain way.” It is not about the environment, abilities or choosing certain business or professions.
Is Opportunity Monopolized? – Some poor people will complain that opportunities are not there, but Wallace disagrees. There are always other channels of making money open even if others seem to be closed out. Opportunity, he states will always be there for the person that goes with the tide instead of trying to go against it.
The first Principle in The Science of Getting Rich – everything that exists first started as a thought. Though is what brings form factor. The first step to being rich he states is to acquire the ability to think in the way you want to think so you can be able to things in the way you want to do them. This means you must be able to take things on trust and faith. You convey the ideas of your wants to a formless factor.
Increasing Life – there is no deity or a superior power above or below that has destined you to live in poverty or that wants poverty for you. Wallace is of the philosophy of an increasing life. “…life, by living multiplies itself. It is forever becoming more; it must do so if it continues to be all.” He believes, therefore; the universe wants you to have everything you want to have, nature is friendly to your plans, and everything is naturally for you.
How Riches Come to you – riches come to you only when you add value to life. This means by adding value to others. “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.
Gratitude – “first you believe that there is one intelligent substance from which all things proceed; second, you believe that this substance gives you everything you desire; and third, you relate yourself to it by a feeling of deep and profound gratitude. “ This is the order of things to which you should subscribe if you will see riches come your way.
Thinking in The Certain Way – you need to set a clear mental image of what you want in to achieve. If you want a house, for instance, form a clear mental image of that house to the last detail. This mental image will be giving you focus on what you are supposed to achieve. When you have a clear mental image, it also takes you away from all the other things you should not be thinking about.
How to Use the Will – in this chapter, Wallace describes instances that you should not use your will power. Do not use your will power on other people or use it to try to coerce God. You can only use your will power on yourself. Compel yourself to think and do the right things.
Further Use of the Will – use your will power to put poverty and everything that relates to poverty aside. This is the only way to ensure that you are holding only one clear mental image in your head; that of success and riches.
Acting in The Certain Way – by thought, the thing that you want is brought to you. However, it is only by action that you receive it. You must be ready to act and act in the right way to receive riches. You must also be prepared to act NOW.
Efficient Action – efficient action means that you must be able to do what you can do where you are, and you must also do all you can do where you are. To advance, you must fill more than your present place, and this is achieved only through efficient action.
Getting Into The Right Business – only get into the business in which you have well-developed faculties of what is required in that business.
The Impression of Increase – you must have the desire for growth and to be able to get more in your life you should have the impression of increase. If your business is to grow, you must have that impression in your everyday dealings.
The Advancing Man – this chapter is about giving the increase of life to others so you can advance yourself. This is especially true for a preacher, teacher and health practitioner. If you sincerely help others to increase themselves, they will be attracted to you and will throng your place of business making you advance.
What I Like About The Book
I like that the book is short and concise. The writing is sweet and to the point. No fluff. The author passes the points to you in a simple manner. The book is highly actionable with the 15 principles easy to adopt and use in daily life for that transformational change you need.
Why You Should Read The Book
This book is very practical and will achieve what it promises for “how to get what you want.” if you feel like you are not moving forward in life or are not getting the riches you are working for, then this is the book to read. The art is described in there very simply for you.
