Manifestation for Skeptics
Let’s get something straight: you are not your thoughts.
But! If you believe you are, then your thoughts have the power to control you.
Think about the friend who is constantly complaining about the never-ending series of unfortunate events that is constantly befalling them. The broken coffee pot that turned into a late start that turned into an illegal park job that turned into a traffic ticket that turned into bombing the interview that turned into a fight with their partner… Maybe this friend is you.
In remembrance of Matthew Perry
August 19, 1969 - October 28, 2023
Or maybe you’re the one being vented to, doing everything short of shaking them and saying, ‘Wake up! You are the cause of your own misery! Take responsibility for your life and stop focusing on the negative!’
If someone believes their life is just one misfortune after the next, that’s all it takes to make it true. A simple perspective shift and a different truth might reveal itself. A truth centering around the positives… A strong support system, a job that pays the bills, the small pleasures in life. The world is only out to get you if you believe it is.
Everyone gets caught in negative thought cycles from time to time, but understanding the distinction between the ‘self’ and the ‘thoughts’ is the first step to reclaiming your truth. Human thoughts don’t always tell the truth; sometimes they are just reflecting fears, insecurities, or desires. Not all of these thoughts need to be acted on.
Like a cloud gliding into your line of vision and changing shape as it drifts away, thoughts can shapeshift, too. First, observe. Maybe this thought is new… Maybe it’s recurring… Or perhaps it’s shapeshifting. Then, decide. The thought could be worth dwelling on, or it might be better off floating away.
The subtle shift from being your thoughts to owning them is the difference between life happening to you and taking control of your life. Of course, manifestation takes more than wishing things were different and hoping they change. If you’re still tied to limiting beliefs, it doesn’t matter if you hope for change or not. The change has to start from inside. What you tell yourself influences thought patterns and in turn, beliefs.
In this way, we’re constantly manifesting; subconsciously carving out our futures. To bring manifestation to the forefront of your consciousness, there has to be intention. A clear idea with specific details and positive language to describe your desires.
*Intention setting should always use positive language. Words like ‘don’t,’ ‘never,’ ‘not’ are limiting and negative.
It can take time and practice for new ideas to resonate and align with beliefs because it comes down to the very operation of the subconscious mind.
If you wish you had a high stakes job with status and pant suits, but deep down believe you’re destined for the run of the mill office job, then you’re most likely getting the latter. It’s not enough to want it, you need to believe it. Visualize yourself in that role as if you already have it. Be specific. How does it feel to step into the red bottoms; how does it smell inside your own office; what does your commute look like; what does your morning matcha taste like; what do your meetings sound like?
Even if you have a strong understanding of all the above… Somewhere in between the hustle and bustle of after school pickups and nine-to-five’s and one obligation after the next… It’s easy to slip out of the driver’s seat. A simple way to come back to the life you are constantly building for yourself, is through positive affirmations.
Affirmations can be used to create a positive outlook on life and build self-confidence. Phrases like:
✨There is good in everyone
✨I am strong and capable
✨Love is all around me
✨I am exactly where I am supposed to be
✨Everything is happening in perfect timing
✨I am filled with gratitude for the gift of life
Any number of positive statements that are aligned with your beliefs can be used as reminders that end up driving yourself towards your goals. Affirmations can be repeated internally during meditation, or said aloud as little reminders throughout each day. Like your thoughts, these statements are bound to evolve with you.
Whether they take you for a ride or you take them for a ride is completely up to you.
