Manifesting: A Practical Approach to Achieving Your Goals
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I recently came across an article titled “Manifesting is Bullshit” by Robin Wilding, which prompted me to share my thoughts. While I acknowledge that Robin raises some valid points, I must respectfully disagree with the notion that manifesting is without merit. (And I must admit, her writing did bring a smile to my face!)
You can validate the concept of manifesting by reflecting on your own life and recalling moments where you deeply desired something, and through unforeseen circumstances, you achieved it. That’s what manifesting is all about.
I like to think of it as goal setting infused with a touch of Universal magic.
How does this manifestation process work? Let's delve deeper into that and I’ll share one of my personal favorite manifestations.
The Power of Thought
“Thoughts become things. If you see it in your mind, you will hold it in your hand.” — Bob Proctor
Here’s a basic outline of how manifestations occur:
- A thought arises.
- That thought transforms into physical reality.
Admittedly, this is a simplified explanation, but it serves as a foundation. Look around you; everything in your environment began as a thought. It’s essential that it unfolds this way. There’s no alternative.
Consider Steve Jobs, who envisioned a portable phone-computer combination. Or think of the Wright brothers, who first imagined flying machines before they became a reality. Even the chair you’re currently seated on was once merely an idea.
All manifestations begin with a thought.
Beyond Mere Thoughts
I can anticipate what Robin would argue next, and I agree with her perspective.
“‘Manifesting’ alone is like a rocking chair; it will give you something to do — but it won’t get you anywhere.” — Robin Wilding
If I were to modify that statement, I would swap “manifesting” with “thinking.”
We generate countless thoughts every day, and not all of them manifest into reality. (Thank goodness for that! Can you imagine the chaos?)
You can’t merely think about something and expect it to materialize. That would lead to utter chaos.
Here’s my perspective on the manifestation process:
- You conceive an idea of what you want.
- You clarify that idea in your mind.
- You contemplate that idea until it nearly becomes an obsession. (This step isn't mandatory but can be beneficial.)
- You visualize the outcome of that idea.
- You feel inspired to take action.
- The idea manifests into reality.
This process closely resembles goal setting, but with one key distinction that I’ll elaborate on shortly.
Now, let me share one of my favorite manifestation stories and illustrate how I navigated through this six-step process.
Manifesting a Macbook Air Despite Financial Constraints
In 2012, I owned a Toshiba laptop that served me well, but it was beginning to fail.
For some reason, I became convinced that I needed a Macbook Air. (Why? Who knows? Maybe I wanted to write about how manifesting is valid using it.)
At that time, it felt like the laptop was a million-dollar item since my husband and I barely had enough to cover our essentials. The price was a quarter of our bank account balance.
Yet, I couldn’t shake the thought. I was fixated. I just knew I would somehow acquire one.
Fast forward to one day when my husband returned from work with exciting news about a local casino hosting a sweepstakes for Macbook Airs.
Ding, ding, ding!
This was the opportunity I had been waiting for! I rushed to the casino, and guess what?
I didn’t win the sweepstakes.
However, while wandering around and playing games, I distinctly “heard” a voice in my head say, “Why not try a slot machine with a jackpot?”
I settled on a Grease-themed machine, pressed a few buttons, and ended up winning over $12,000.
(The details of this incredible experience can be found in a thread I shared on Twitter.)
The alignment of events leading to that moment was so extraordinary that it defies rational explanation.
Steps to My Manifestation
Let’s revisit those manifestation steps and see how they align with my experience:
- You conceive an idea of what you want. — I envisioned owning a Macbook Air.
- You clarify that idea in your mind. — I repeatedly visualized it, even visiting the Apple store to try one out.
- You contemplate that idea until it nearly becomes an obsession. — Despite my husband's doubts about our finances, I couldn’t let go of the thought.
- You visualize the outcome of that idea. — Before heading to the casino, I cleared my desk to make space for my new laptop.
- You feel inspired to take action. — My husband’s mention of the sweepstakes was the nudge I needed, and I followed the intuition that came later.
- The idea manifests into reality. — I won the jackpot and purchased the laptop that same night.
This is just one of many personal stories I have. However, if this doesn’t convince you of the validity of manifesting, I understand.
The best way to demonstrate it to yourself is to try it out. Focus on something you genuinely desire, visualize it, and believe you will receive it, then observe what unfolds.
Avoid starting with monumental goals like winning the lottery; that often carries too much emotional weight. Begin with simpler intentions, like scoring a free cup of coffee or discovering loose change.
The Distinction Between Inspired Action and Goal Setting
While goal setting and manifesting share similarities, the key difference lies in the action taken.
Manifesting demands inspired action, which is that unmistakable urge or intuition that propels you to act. This is the essence of the Universal magic I often reference.
This inspiration isn’t always a voice; sometimes it manifests as a gut feeling. For instance, when my husband and I were house hunting, I felt compelled to explore additional options, leading us to our ideal home — one that fulfilled every requirement on our list.
Another instance occurred when I was motivated to declutter a chaotic corner in our bedroom. An unmistakable vision emerged, prompting me to act immediately, and within a couple of hours, the space was transformed.
That’s inspired action. It arises swiftly and effortlessly, making physical tasks seem manageable.
In contrast, goal setting typically involves taking logical steps to achieve a desired outcome. While this approach is effective, inspired action can often feel far more seamless.
Taking Action is Essential
The release of The Secret by Rhonda Byrne in 2006 shed light on the concept of manifesting, even though I was already practicing it beforehand. The film made me aware of the principles behind it and set me on my manifesting journey.
While it enlightened many about manifesting, it also led to misconceptions, with some believing they can simply wait for fortune to arrive without action.
In reality, things don’t just appear at your doorstep. (Although I did have a perfect rug show up at mine! You can read about that on Twitter.)
As physical beings, we must engage in real-world actions to achieve our desires. The Universe (or whichever term you prefer) can only facilitate so much; it’s up to us to act on what is presented.
Consider the joke about a man stranded during a flood. He repeatedly refuses help, believing God will save him, only to drown and question why he wasn’t rescued. The answer? He was sent multiple forms of assistance that he ignored.
You must utilize the resources available to you.
Manifesting Limitations
While manifesting is a powerful concept, it’s crucial to recognize that it doesn’t grant us the ability to defy the physical laws of our world.
For instance, wishing to fly is delightful, but airplanes are the practical means to achieve it. If your desire is to soar without such assistance, you might be disappointed.
Some manifesting coaches assert that we have no limitations, but I don’t subscribe to that belief.
I won’t suddenly become a professional basketball player or a chess champion simply by envisioning it.
We must operate within:
- The physical constraints of our world
- Our personal limitations
- Our authentic desires
Those who promote the idea of limitless potential without acknowledging these factors may lead others to disappointment.
However, I do believe we arrive on Earth with specific soul intentions. Personally, I have no desire to play in the NBA or become a chess master (I don't even know the rules!). My passion lies in writing.
If I truly wanted to pursue a basketball career, I could manifest opportunities related to that, such as securing a position within a team.
Manifesting is an intriguing blend of mystery, inspiration, and a touch of Universal guidance, but it’s not a panacea.
Conclusion
Manifesting is not a frivolous concept. I hope I’ve illustrated its validity. If you remain unconvinced, that’s perfectly acceptable.
I don’t seek to persuade anyone; I merely share my personal experiences.
On the laptop that I manifested.
About the Author
Hello! I’m Christina, an introverted book lover on the outside, but a passionate metalhead at heart. I’m a married mother of two teenagers (along with three cats and a dog). I enjoy Las Vegas, the band Chevelle, and murder mysteries.
I also love crafting daily lists of resources and ideas to help you enhance your online income. Click this surprisingly lengthy link to sign up for free.