“Work to become, not to acquire.”
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– Elbert Hubbard
This powerful statement from writer and philosopher Elbert Hubbard cuts straight to the heart of a modern dilemma. We live in a world that often measures success by possessions. For instance, people often judge others by the car they drive, the house they own, or the balance in their bank account. Hubbard’s wisdom, however, challenges this materialistic viewpoint. He suggests a more profound and fulfilling path. True progress is not about what you have, but about who you are becoming. This philosophy prioritizes internal growth over external accumulation.
Ultimately, this quote invites us to redefine our motivations and goals. It pushes us to look beyond fleeting material gains. Instead, we should focus on the lasting value of personal development, character, and wisdom.
The Meaning of ‘Becoming’
When Hubbard advises us to “work to become,” he is championing the journey of self-improvement. This is a continuous process of evolving into a better version of yourself. It involves cultivating virtues, honing skills, and expanding your knowledge. Becoming is an active, intentional pursuit. It means choosing challenges that foster growth rather than tasks that simply yield a paycheck.
For example, you could become a more patient person, a more skilled communicator, or a more knowledgeable expert in your field. These are not things you can buy. You must earn them through deliberate effort and experience. This type of work builds a foundation of inner wealth. Unlike material possessions, which can be lost or devalued, the person you become is a permanent asset. It shapes how you interact with the world and navigate its challenges.
The Emptiness of ‘Acquiring’
On the other hand, the drive “to acquire” focuses solely on external rewards. This path promises happiness through accumulation. It might be the latest smartphone, a luxury car, or a larger home. While these items can provide temporary pleasure, they rarely lead to lasting fulfillment. Psychologists refer to this phenomenon as the hedonic treadmill. People quickly adapt to new possessions and then seek the next purchase for another fleeting high. Source
This endless cycle of acquiring can create stress, anxiety, and a constant feeling of inadequacy. Moreover, it ties your sense of self-worth to external factors you cannot always control. If your identity is based on what you own, you risk feeling empty if those possessions are lost. Hubbard’s quote serves as a powerful reminder that true value lies within. Focusing on acquiring things often distracts us from the more meaningful work of personal development.
Shifting Your Focus from Acquiring to Becoming
Adopting this mindset requires a conscious shift in your daily priorities and long-term goals. It is not about renouncing material comfort entirely. Instead, it is about reordering your primary motivation. The goal is to let personal growth drive your actions, with material success becoming a welcome byproduct rather than the main objective. This shift can transform how you approach your career, your relationships, and your personal time.
In Your Professional Life
In a career context, working to become means prioritizing skill development over simply climbing the ladder for a bigger title or salary. Ask yourself different questions. Instead of, “How can I get a raise?” ask, “What skill can I learn to become more valuable?” or “How can I become a better leader for my team?”
This approach has practical benefits. For example, focusing on becoming an expert in a niche area or a more effective project manager makes you indispensable. Consequently, this internal growth often leads to the external rewards—like promotions and higher pay—you might have been chasing. The difference is that you have built a sustainable foundation of competence and confidence along the way.
In Your Personal Pursuits
This philosophy extends far beyond the office. In your personal life, you can work to become a better friend, a more informed citizen, or a healthier individual. Instead of acquiring more gadgets for a hobby, focus on mastering the craft itself. For instance, a photographer could focus on becoming a master of light and composition rather than just acquiring the newest camera lens.
This shift can also improve well-being. Research often shows that people report greater and more lasting happiness from experiences that contribute to their growth—like learning an instrument or traveling—than from material purchases.
Finding a Healthy Balance
It is important to recognize that becoming and acquiring are not mutually exclusive. We live in a physical world, and we need to acquire resources like food, shelter, and money to live and thrive. The quote does not advocate for a life of asceticism. Rather, it speaks to our primary motivation and the ultimate purpose of our work.
The key is to ensure your desire to acquire serves your journey of becoming. For example, you might acquire money to invest in education or to have the freedom to pursue a passion project. In this case, acquisition is a tool for growth, not the end goal itself. The danger arises when the roles are reversed—when the pursuit of possessions overshadows your personal development. By keeping your focus on who you are becoming, you can create a life that is both successful and deeply meaningful.