What is Certain Way?

In New Thought, the 'Certain Way' refers to a specific, disciplined method of thinking and acting articulated by Wallace D. Wattles in his seminal work, 'The Science of Getting Rich' (1910). This concept is central to Wattles's philosophy, which posits that wealth acquisition is an exact science, not a matter of chance or talent. The 'Certain Way' involves aligning one's thoughts and actions with the 'Formless Substance,' an omnipresent, intelligent, and creative energy from which all things are made. Wattles asserts that by holding a clear mental image of what one desires, coupled with unwavering faith and gratitude, and acting decisively upon present opportunities, individuals can impress their thoughts upon this Formless Substance, compelling it to manifest their desires into reality. This is not merely positive thinking, but a systematic approach that demands mental discipline, a strong sense of purpose, and consistent action. The practical significance of the 'Certain Way' lies in its promise of predictable results: by following these principles precisely, anyone can achieve their desired financial outcomes. It emphasizes the creative power of thought and the importance of harmonious interaction with the universe's underlying creative principle, distinguishing it from mere ambition or hard labor by focusing on mental causation as the primary driver of material manifestation.

The Certain Way is the central organizing principle of Wallace D. Wattles' 1910 classic The Science of Getting Rich. It refers not to a single technique but to an integrated method of thinking and acting that, when followed with precision and consistency, is said to produce wealth as reliably as a scientific experiment produces predictable results. Wattles distinguishes this approach from luck, talent, or environmental advantage, insisting that getting rich is the natural outcome of doing things in this particular manner, regardless of one's starting circumstances. The concept reframes prosperity from a matter of chance into a matter of lawful cause and effect.

At its core, the Certain Way involves three inseparable elements: holding a clear and definite mental image of what one desires, maintaining unwavering faith that it is already being realized, and expressing deep gratitude toward the Formless Substance (Wattles' term for the intelligent, creative source behind all manifestation). These inner states must then be expressed through purposeful, efficient action in one's present occupation. Wattles is emphatic that thought alone is insufficient. Action must be integrated with thought so that every deed performed is done with full presence and intention, advancing the individual toward the envisioned goal.

The Certain Way draws heavily on the New Thought philosophical tradition, which holds that mind is causative and that mental states shape material reality. Wattles was influenced by thinkers like Ralph Waldo Emerson, Emma Curtis Hopkins, and the broader Hegelian idealism that permeated American metaphysical culture in the late nineteenth century. His contribution was to distill these sometimes abstract ideas into a remarkably concrete and practical formula aimed specifically at material abundance. Later authors, including Napoleon Hill and Bob Proctor, would echo and expand upon Wattles' framework, cementing the Certain Way as a foundational blueprint within the prosperity consciousness movement.

The concept is deeply related to several other esoteric ideas. It parallels the Law of Thought, which teaches that sustained mental focus shapes outer experience. It requires what Wattles calls Increasing Life, the principle that one's actions should always add more life and value to every person encountered, never competing or taking from others. The Certain Way also intersects with the broader metaphysical teaching on Purpose: that clarity of intention, held with feeling and conviction, is the mechanism by which the invisible becomes visible. Without clear purpose, one falls into what might be called aimlessness, which Wattles sees as the chief obstacle to prosperity.

For the modern seeker, understanding the Certain Way matters because it offers a coherent and testable model for aligning inner states with outer results. It teaches that prosperity is not morally suspect or spiritually inferior but is a legitimate expression of creative intelligence flowing through an individual who has learned to cooperate with universal law. The Certain Way challenges the seeker to move beyond passive wishing and into disciplined, grateful, faith-filled action. In an age of scattered attention and conflicting advice, Wattles' systematic approach remains a remarkably clear and empowering path.

The phrase "Certain Way" is drawn from common English, where "certain" carries the dual meaning of "specific" and "assured." Wattles uses both senses deliberately. He means a specific, particular manner of thinking and acting, and he simultaneously implies that this manner carries a certainty of outcome. The word "certain" derives from the Latin certus, meaning "settled, sure, determined," which itself comes from cernere, "to distinguish, to decide." This root is fitting, as the Certain Way requires the practitioner to make decisive mental distinctions: choosing what to focus on, what to believe, and how to act.

Wattles introduced the phrase in the opening chapters of The Science of Getting Rich (1910), and it quickly became the book's signature concept. He capitalized it to give it the weight of a technical term, elevating it from casual language into a philosophical category. Over the following century, as the book gained popularity through figures like Rhonda Byrne (who credited it as an inspiration for The Secret), the phrase entered wider metaphysical vocabulary. Today it is recognized as shorthand for Wattles' entire system of mental science applied to material creation.

To practice the Certain Way, begin each day by spending quiet, focused time with a vivid mental picture of the life you intend to create. Wattles instructs practitioners to see this image clearly, hold it with absolute faith that it is being realized, and then spend deliberate time in gratitude, feeling thankful as though the desired outcome already exists. This is not mere visualization for its own sake. It is the deliberate formation of a mental mold into which the creative substance of the universe is invited to flow. Write your vision in concrete detail and revisit it frequently, allowing it to saturate your feeling nature.

The second essential practice is to bring this inner clarity into your present work. Whatever your current occupation, perform every task with full presence, purpose, and excellence. Do more than is expected. Ensure that every interaction leaves the other person with a sense of increase and benefit. Avoid competitive thinking entirely. Instead, adopt what Wattles calls the creative mindset: the conviction that abundance is unlimited and that your gain never requires another's loss. By uniting sustained mental imagery with purposeful daily action and a spirit of generous service, you set in motion the lawful process that Wattles promises will lead inevitably to the realization of your vision.