Get 'THE MAGIC LADDER TO SUCCESS'
for FREE!
Plus, Each Morning You'll Receive An Email Inspired By Success Philosophers Like Napoleon Hill, Orison Swett Marden, Elsie Lincoln Benedict and more!
The Science of Being Great
Wallace D. Wattles
About the Author
Wallace D. Wattles (1860–1911) was a pioneering thinker of the New Thought movement. His simple but powerful teachings on prosperity, health, and personal power have influenced generations. Wattles believed that greatness is a science, governed by spiritual and mental laws accessible to anyone. His work continues to inspire readers to think beyond limitations and live with purpose and spiritual alignment.
About the Book
"The Science of Being Great" is the third and final installment in Wattles's transformative trilogy. While "The Science of Getting Rich" focuses on wealth and "The Science of Being Well" focuses on health, this book centers on inner power. In short, through thought, character, and spiritual truth, you can become a person of true greatness.
Summary
Wattles insists that greatness is not the result of birth, privilege, or external validation. It's the natural result of recognizing your divine nature and living in harmony with it. Central points include:
- You Are Already Great by Nature: Wattles teaches that greatness, which he terms the "Principle of Power," is in every person. Recognizing this inherent quality is the first step toward actualizing greatness.
- Greatness Comes Through Thought and Action: True greatness is cultivated by thinking truthfully about yourself and others and acting with integrity.
- Service Is a Path to True Greatness: Serving others through the highest expression of your talents and character is the most powerful demonstration of greatness.
- Faith Overcomes All Limitations: You must believe in your greatness. Doubt limits you; faith frees you. You must reject every idea that contradicts the truth of your divine nature.
- The Presence of God Within Is the Source of Power: Greatness flows from the divine intelligence operating through you. When you consciously align your thoughts and actions with this inner presence, you tap into unlimited creativity, strength, and wisdom.
- Thought Is the Channel of Divine Expression: Every great achievement begins in thought. To think truthfully, seeing yourself and others as divine beings, is to cooperate with the creative power of God. Negative, fearful, or critical thinking severs that connection.
- Personal Expansion Serves Universal Good: Becoming great is not a selfish endeavor. As you develop your abilities and express your highest potential, you contribute to the advancement of all humanity, because life naturally seeks fuller expression through every individual.
- Calm Confidence Is a Sign of True Power: Genuine greatness manifests as composure, self-control, and quiet assurance, rather than aggression or dominance. Those in harmony with divine law act with dignity and strength, not force.
- Gratitude and Joy Keep You Aligned with Greatness: Maintaining an attitude of gratitude and joy strengthens your unity with the Source. These states of mind elevate your vibration, attract opportunity, and make you a channel for good.
Frequently Asked Questions
"The Science of Being Great" addresses unlocking your spiritual and mental potential. It teaches that anyone can live a life of significance by aligning with truth and serving with love.
This book is roughly 60–140 pages, depending on the edition. It's best read slowly and reflectively, as the lessons build on one another.
It was published in 1910, shortly after "The Science of Getting Rich," and reflects the spiritual optimism of the New Thought era.
Yes, the book is widely available in print, audiobook, and digital formats, often bundled with Wattles's other works or included in New Thought anthologies.
You can find this title in Secrets of Success' book section on building self-confidence. It's perfect for those looking to combine spiritual depth with practical self-leadership.
Looking to tap into your inner greatness? The Secrets of Success Library offers this work and dozens of others on mindset, faith, and success. Join now to unlock timeless resources that help you live your highest potential.
If you enjoyed reading "The Science of Being Great," explore Wattles' other works and check out some of these other tomes:
"The Mental Equivalent" by Emmet Fox: Provides a clear, actionable process for shaping your inner image to match the greatness you wish to manifest.
"Thought Vibration" by William Walker Atkinson: Reinforces the idea that consistent, positive thought is the starting point of personal power and external achievement.
"Self-Mastery Through Conscious Autosuggestion" by Émile Coué: Explores the power of suggestion to build character, confidence, and mental control—essential tools for greatness.
"The Power of Concentration" by William Walker Atkinson: Helps you develop the focused mindset needed to act with purpose and conviction, as Wattles recommends.
"Power Through Constructive Thinking" by Emmet Fox: Encourages the development of spiritual confidence and righteous thought, aligning closely with Wattles's ideas on self-realization and service.
Click here to read reviews of this book.
Get the Magic Ladder to Success for FREE:
Other Books by Wallace D. Wattles:
Podcasts:
COMING SOON
"The very best thing you can do for the whole world is to make the most of yourself."
Wallace D. Wattles
among many others
Secrets of Success LLC © 2026 | All Rights Reserved | SecretsOfSuccess.com
Terms | Income Disclaimer | Affiliates | Privacy Policy | Member Login