Books The Science of Being Great Book by Wallace D. Wattles

The Science of Being Great

By Wallace D. Wattles

Overview

The Science of Being Great is a self-help classic by Wallace D. Wattles that explores how anyone can achieve personal greatness by understanding and applying specific mental and spiritual principles. Wattles asserts that greatness is not reserved for a select few; rather, every individual possesses inherent potential that can be cultivated through mindset and action156.

Core Principles

Universal Potential

Greatness is innate: Every person is born with the capacity for greatness, just as every plant seed has the potential to become a unique flower. Limitations exist only in one’s self-concept and belief system, not nature16.

Principle of Power: Wattles argues that all people share a “Principle of Power” that enables conscious growth and self-improvement in ways that no other creature can match67.

Mindset and Thought

Power of Thought: The foundation of greatness is positive, directed thinking. By controlling thoughts, individuals shape their destiny and growth. Positive self-esteem and constructive beliefs are seen as measures of personal progress and greatness45.

Vision and Clarity: Success begins with a clear vision of what one wants to become. Regular visualization, conviction, and purposeful mental focus are essential ingredients for expressing potential5.

Creative Action

Purposeful Action: Greatness is not achieved by wishful thinking or mere talent alone, but through deliberate, creative effort. Wattles stresses the importance of taking consistent action in line with one’s goals, regardless of setbacks or obstacles5.

Small Things in Great Ways: Wattles encourages readers to begin with their immediate environment—being just, generous, courteous, and diligent in every action. Doing small things in outstanding ways lays the groundwork for handling greater opportunities and responsibilities3.

Character and Integrity

Essential Qualities: Personal growth requires attributes such as integrity, courage, self-discipline, and kindness. Developing these traits leads to ongoing improvement and enlarges one’s influence and self-mastery5.

Continuous Growth: Achieving greatness is a lifelong process. The practices that bring success must be sustained and refined throughout life as part of personal evolution5.

Practices and Exercises

Key Takeaways

Any individual may become great by understanding and directing their inherent power of thought and action67.

Greatness requires self-discipline, clarity of purpose, and a commitment to act with integrity in all circumstances5.

Begin today with your current resources and surroundings, raising every action to its highest potential—the path to greatness is in small, consistent steps3.

External barriers matter less than inner conviction and persistence: Ultimately, one's beliefs and sustained efforts are the primary forces shaping destiny14.

Who Should Read This Book

Anyone seeking practical, philosophical, and spiritual guidance on personal development.

Readers interested in mindset transformation and principles of self-mastery.

Individuals looking for actionable steps beyond theory to realize their best selves.

The Science of Being Great remains influential for its blend of motivational philosophy, practical guidance, and the optimistic premise that greatness is attainable by anyone ready to direct their thoughts and actions with purpose156.

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