Introduction
In 1899, as the world stood on the brink of a new century, Elbert Hubbard penned an essay that would leave an indelible mark on American culture and work ethic. "A Message to Garcia" is a short but powerful piece that encapsulates Hubbard's views on how to be a good person and live a fulfilling life. This book, which became more widely reprinted than any other book besides the Bible during Hubbard's lifetime, inspired influential figures such as John D. Rockefeller, Henry Ford, and President Teddy Roosevelt.
The essay's curious title refers to a real-life incident during the Spanish-American War, which Hubbard uses as a springboard to discuss broader themes of initiative, dedication, and personal responsibility. Through this lens, he offers timeless advice on work ethic, attitude, and character that remains relevant in our modern world.
The Story Behind "A Message to Garcia"
The phrase "a message to Garcia" originates from a true story that took place during the Spanish-American War in 1898. President William McKinley needed to establish communication with Cuban rebel leader Calixto Garcia, who was fighting against Spanish rule. The task of delivering a message to Garcia was both crucial and extremely challenging, as Garcia's exact location was unknown, and the journey through Cuba would be perilous.
Enter Lieutenant Andrew Rowan, the man chosen for this mission. Without hesitation or unnecessary questions, Rowan accepted the task and successfully delivered the message to Garcia. This act of unwavering dedication and initiative became the cornerstone of Hubbard's essay and the inspiration for his ideas on ideal work ethic.
The Ideal Worker: Embodying Rowan's Spirit
Hubbard presents Lieutenant Rowan as the epitome of the ideal worker. He emphasizes that Rowan's approach to his mission - accepting it without question and completing it with determination - is a quality that should be admired and emulated in all workplaces.
The author argues that this kind of initiative and dedication is often more valuable than book learning. He suggests that if more workers adopted Rowan's attitude, businesses and society as a whole would function more efficiently and effectively.
The Prevalence of Incompetence and Entitlement
Hubbard doesn't shy away from criticizing what he sees as widespread laziness and incompetence among workers. He presents a thought experiment to illustrate his point: Imagine asking six subordinates to research the life of Antonio da Correggio, an Italian Renaissance painter. According to Hubbard, most would respond with unnecessary questions, attempts to delegate the task, or excuses for why they can't complete it.
This example serves to highlight the author's belief that many workers lack initiative and are quick to avoid responsibility. He argues that such behavior is not only frustrating for employers but ultimately harmful to the workers themselves, as it makes them expendable in the workplace.
The Consequences of Laziness and Negativity
Hubbard emphasizes that employers are constantly evaluating their workers, even when business is going well. Those who consistently complain, slack off, or display negativity are likely to find themselves out of a job. He argues that incompetent employees are not just useless but actively drain resources from a company.
The author takes a particularly harsh stance on complainers and critics. He believes that constantly griping about work or superiors reflects poorly on the complainer rather than the subject of their complaints. Hubbard uses the example of a Yale student who was bitter about his university experience, arguing that such an attitude only revealed the student's own character flaws rather than any real issues with the institution.
The "Get Out or Get In Line" Philosophy
One of the most striking pieces of advice in "A Message to Garcia" is Hubbard's "get out or get in line" philosophy. He argues that if a work situation is truly intolerable, the best course of action is to leave. However, if one chooses to stay, they should commit fully to being the best worker possible.
Hubbard acknowledges that no company or boss is perfect, but he believes that employees should either invest 100% of their energy into their work or leave the company entirely. This all-or-nothing approach may seem extreme, but it reflects Hubbard's belief in the importance of commitment and positive attitude in the workplace.
The Power of Positive Thinking
A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the importance of maintaining a positive attitude. Hubbard argues that our thoughts shape our reality - negative thoughts create negative outcomes, while positive thoughts lead to success and happiness.
He encourages readers to cultivate courage and cheerfulness, believing that these traits pave the way for success and goodwill. According to Hubbard, our character is ultimately the result of our attitude and how we spend our time. Our thoughts shape our actions, which in turn determine who we are as individuals.
The Relationship Between Work and Happiness
Hubbard challenges the common notion that wealth and success lead to happiness by eliminating the need to work. Instead, he argues that happiness is achieved through hard work and the discipline and focus it requires. He believes that the inner satisfaction derived from productive effort is a crucial source of joy that many people overlook.
The author extends this idea beyond individual happiness to societal well-being. He suggests that if everyone worked a bit, no one would be overworked, and if no one wasted resources, everyone would have enough. This perspective emphasizes the interconnectedness of individual actions and societal outcomes.
Living a Good Life
Rather than aspiring to be rich, famous, or powerful, Hubbard encourages readers to strive for a good life. He defines this as radiating health, cheerfulness, courage, and goodwill, while living free from hate, jealousy, and fear. He advocates for honesty, simplicity, and the humility to admit when one doesn't know something.
Hubbard also emphasizes the importance of treating all people equally and helping others by teaching them self-reliance. He believes that people should be led by example rather than force, a principle that applies both in the workplace and in broader society.
The Importance of Self-Awareness and Conscious Living
The book concludes with the idea that living a self-aware life, where one consciously focuses on their own happiness, is key to being righteous and prosperous. This ties together Hubbard's various threads of advice - from work ethic to positive thinking to treating others well - into a cohesive philosophy for living.
Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways
"A Message to Garcia" presents a challenging and sometimes controversial perspective on work and life. While some of Hubbard's ideas may seem harsh or outdated to modern readers, many of his core principles remain relevant:
Initiative and dedication are invaluable: The story of Lieutenant Rowan delivering the message to Garcia serves as a powerful metaphor for taking on tasks with determination and without unnecessary questions or excuses.
Attitude matters: Hubbard strongly emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive attitude, both for personal success and for creating a positive work environment.
Work has intrinsic value: Rather than seeing work as a necessary evil, Hubbard encourages readers to view it as a source of satisfaction and personal growth.
Lead by example: Whether in a leadership position or not, Hubbard believes in the power of setting a good example through one's actions and attitude.
Commit fully or move on: The "get out or get in line" philosophy encourages readers to either fully commit to their current situation or have the courage to leave if it's truly untenable.
Character is shaped by thoughts and actions: Hubbard emphasizes the connection between our inner world (thoughts and attitudes) and our outer world (actions and character).
Strive for a good life, not just success: Rather than focusing solely on traditional markers of success, Hubbard encourages readers to aim for a life of integrity, kindness, and personal growth.
While "A Message to Garcia" was written over a century ago, its core message about the value of hard work, positive attitude, and personal integrity continues to resonate. In our modern world of constant distractions and shifting workplace norms, Hubbard's call for focus, dedication, and personal responsibility offers a thought-provoking counterpoint.
Whether one agrees with all of Hubbard's points or not, the book serves as a catalyst for self-reflection. It challenges readers to consider their own work ethic, attitude, and approach to life's challenges. In doing so, it continues to spark discussions about what it means to be a good worker, a good leader, and ultimately, a good person in our complex and ever-changing world.