As someone who struggles with OCD, I have a love-hate relationship with the idea of manifesting. Many new age spiritual individuals and self-help gurus swear by the concept, but it’s not always as “magical” as they make it out to be. So, for those who suffer from obsessive thoughts and irrational worries, don’t worry: you won’t unintentionally manifest your worst-case scenarios by ruminating on them for too long.
Manifestation requires clear intention and consistent behaviors. It’s not as simple as “think positive!” or “speak it into existence!” There must be aligned actions behind the practice.
At its core, manifestation involves neuroplasticity, which helps the brain rewire itself through focused attention and repetition. When you’re practicing different manifestation techniques, you’re giving your brain a positive experience just by visualizing it.
Think of it like this: You know how real your anxiety can feel? Even when you’re safely in bed under the covers, you can feel as though you are actually experiencing the terrifying, traumatic event your brain is fearing.
The same goes for manifesting. You are rewiring your brain to anticipate positive outcomes, allowing it to feel the joy and excitement you would if you actually manifested your dreams.
Sold on the idea—or at least curious enough to give it a shot? Here are four simple daily rituals to manifest your dream life.
1. Tailor Your Morning Routine
Starting your day with a structured yet inspiring morning routine helps you stay in alignment with both your purpose and your dreams. Whether it’s journaling your feelings down before diving into work or getting in some movement, make sure it feels activating for your body, mind, and soul.
Personally, I like to start my morning by sipping my coffee in front of my window, gazing outside, and practicing gratitude for a new day. I typically play some upbeat yet calming music while writing down how I’d like to show up for the day ahead. For example, if I’m feeling anxious, I’ll jot down something along the lines of, “I show up confident and courageous, facing my fears head-on.” This helps remind me that I’m in control.
2. Act in Accordance With Your Purpose
Many people believe manifestation is some “woo-woo” concept, but really, it just involves believing in yourself and acting in alignment with that belief. Each morning when you wake up, and any time you feel self-doubt creep in throughout your day, remind yourself of your purpose in life and make decisions based on that purpose.
For example, I believe my purpose in life is to put complex emotions and experiences into words, giving others (and myself) a voice through my writing. Any time I face something challenging, I affirm to myself that I am a writer and must channel these difficulties through my art. Not only does this naturally help me manifest more opportunities and exposure in my career, but it also gives my work—and even my life—more meaning.
3. Script Your Dream Life
Okay, this tip might feel a little more like “magical thinking,” but there’s science behind this practice.
Whenever you’re feeling discouraged or uninspired, sit down and write in your journal from the future version of yourself. You know, the one who already has everything you could possibly want, whether it be a six-figure book deal, a fairytale love, or a dream home by the ocean.
However, here’s the important part: write the letter in the present tense. Treat it like a first-person narrative, expressing gratitude for what you’ve accomplished. Get specific and use language that appeals to your senses. You want to truly feel the experience of your desires as if they’ve already manifested in your current reality.
This technique activates your brain and drives action-oriented behaviors. When your mind is alert like this, operating with more hope and excitement, it naturally seeks out aligned opportunities—things you might have missed or been too insecure/afraid to have capitalized on previously.
4. Visualize Success Before Bed
Similar to scripting, visualizing is a great manifestation technique—and it’s even easier than journaling.
You know how so many of us conjure up worst-case scenarios or relive painful memories before bed? It’s no wonder we often experience nightmares or wake up panicked.
Instead, try visualizing yourself living your ideal life. Close your eyes and go through a day-in-the-life with your dream career, waking up with your dream lover, living in your dream city, driving your dream car, etc. This will keep your brain positive, inspired, and seeking opportunity.
Even if you doubt the power of visualization, it’s a better option than ruminating over your worst mistakes while trying to fall asleep.
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