The Certain Way to Wealth: Wattles’ Wisdom and Hill’s 6 Steps

“The ownership of money and property comes as a result of doing things in a certain way; those who do things in this Certain Way, whether on purpose or accidentally, get rich; while those who do not do things in this Certain Way, no matter how hard they work or how able they are, remain poor.” – Wallace Wattles “The Science of Getting Rich”

This bold truth from “The Science of Getting Rich” cuts through a common myth: wealth is not about hard work alone. Millions work hard every day, but without “the Certain Way,” they remain stuck. Success depends on mindset, clarity, and method, not just effort. That’s why Napoleon Hill’s six-step plan from Think and Grow Rich pairs perfectly with Wattles’ wisdom: it provides a structured process to “do things in a certain way” and attract the riches you deserve.

Understanding Wattles’ Philosophy

Wattles teaches that wealth follows law, not luck. People who operate in alignment with this law, whether consciously or unconsciously, find that opportunities, resources, and prosperity flow to them.

This “Certain Way” involves:

• Thinking in a clear, directed manner.
• Acting with faith and consistency.
• Applying practical steps that align with desire.

It explains why two people with equal intelligence and effort may achieve radically different results, one is working with the laws of wealth creation, the other is fighting against them.

How This Strengthens Napoleon Hill’s Six-Step Plan

Napoleon Hill, in Think and Grow Rich (Chapter 2, Desire), lays out a practical process for building wealth. When you align these steps with Wattles’ teaching, they become more than a checklist, they are the embodiment of “the Certain Way.”

Step 1. Fix in your mind the exact amount of money you desire: The Certain Way begins with precision. Vague desire produces vague results.

Step 2. Determine exactly what you will give in return:  Wealth is an exchange of value. Align your giving with clarity and integrity.

Step 3. Establish a definite date: A clear timeline creates order and discipline, grounding your desire in reality.

Step 4. Create a definite plan and begin at once: The Certain Way demands immediate, consistent action, not waiting for perfect conditions.

Step 5. Write a clear, concise statement: This written statement organizes your thought in alignment with the laws Wattles describes.

Step 6. Read your statement aloud twice daily, believing yourself already in possession: Faith and repetition transform your subconscious mind, aligning it with the Certain Way.

The Bridge Between Wattles and Hill

Wattles gives the principle: riches come only by acting in “a Certain Way.”

Hill gives the process: six steps to train your thoughts, plans, and actions into that very way.

Understanding this connection ensures you’re not just working hard, you’re working right.