The Science of Getting Rich

15. The Science of Getting Rich by Wallace D Wattles

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


This isn't quite the version I read as I just downloaded a free PDF of "The Science of Getting Rich." What I read was published in 1910, and it felt like it.

First, there is NO science in this book. That's most obvious in the sections where he exhorts you not to read other books (except a handful upon which he developed his... strategy) and the religious mentions. You are encouraged to assume what he says is true and have faith in it.

The book is, I believe, what "The Secret" is based on.

The last chapter (1 page long) is a summary of the book, so I recommend starting there. If you want to know more, you can always go back to the beginning. (Wish I'd paid more attention to the contents because that's what I would've done.)

There are a few useful takeaways:
Make a goal and have a very clear vision of all its details. Your chance of accomplishing it will be greatly increased. (Wallace would say it's inevitable.) Wallace does at least say that you can't just picture it and expect it to show up, you have to take action too.

You don't need to deprive anyone else of things to become rich. Pursue creation rather than competition.

Focus on the good by having gratitude for everything.

"When you get out of the competitive mind you will understand that you never need to act hastily. No one else is going to beat you to the thing you want to do; there is enough for all. If one space is taken, another and a better one will be opened for you a little farther on; there is plenty of time. When you are in doubt, wait. Fall back on the contemplation of your vision, and increase your faith and purpose; and by all means, in times of doubt and indecision, cultivate gratitude."


As for the rest, even at only 56 pages, the writing feels long-winded and repetitive.


3 years ago on TTaT: Slippery slope