To “manifest” is to make things happen. When I look at the definition of “manifest,” both the adjective and verb are necessary to reach the goals set. For me, it literally describes the basic steps for practicing the art of manifestation.
Adjective: clear or obvious to the eye or mind.
Verb: display or show (a quality or feeling) by one’s acts or appearance; demonstrate.
We have to know what we want and what we need to do to achieve/acquire it, like a new car or a new job. Knowing what it is we’re shooting for is Part One; but taking action towards it is Part Two.
Manifesting is an approach that can juice up the process. Have you ever heard of the Law of Attraction? It’s when we deeply, regularly focus on what we want — which helps attract it into our lives. Some say that the “Universe” responds to these desires, and that’s when the magic happens.
Trust and Faith are two words often heard about manifestation. However (and here’s the big “however”), we can’t just think about what we want, meditate, sit back on the couch binge-watching tv, and wait around for it to appear. Things don’t work that way.
Manifesting is simply a word used to express the idea of creating a singular focus on a goal, taking concrete steps toward it, while at the same time, keeping that goal foremost in your mind and mind’s eye. You can dream of pretty pictures all day, but the art won’t make itself; you have to put in some real-world work.
Manifesting isn’t always easy. It can be a struggle to focus time and energy on anything extra when day-to-day living takes up so much. But, there are several different methods to help gin up your “manifesting” energy. What works for one may not work the same for another, but try them out and see what fits.
Vision Boards
Vision boards showcase the goals you want to reach through images and words. Back when I was about 10-years-old, I would dream up the type of house I wanted and the things I would furnish it with as I looked through sales catalogs sent to my mom. Each page was a designated room full of items. I had no idea what manifesting or vision boards were. I was simply going with the flow.
Creating a vision board provides you with a visual reminder of what you’re working towards. Keeping it somewhere where you’re constantly reminded of your goal helps keep it top of mind during a busy day.
Gratitude & Accomplishment Journal
Sometimes we have to remind ourselves of all the blessings we’ve already received.
Writing down our accomplishments, achievements, and the things we have to be thankful for can be a real eye-opener. Choose a time for you during the day to sit down, and write down all you’re grateful for — it can be as simple as having woken up in a warm bed or a delicious cup of coffee. Add your accomplishments section and include what you want to see for the future. This journal can help you thank the Universe for all it provides; thank yourself because you put in work too.
Positive Affirmations
Seeing is believing, and sometimes we have to “fake it until we make it.” Everyone needs a pep talk: speak positively to yourself about your goals and dreams:
“You can do this.”
“You’re strong enough.”
“Putting in the work provides the results.”
“It’s OK to make a mistake.”
“Your dreams can become a reality.”
As you say (or write) these affirmations, really picture the positive end result. Imagine how you’ll feel when you’ve landed that new job; get excited! That kind of emotional energy helps light a fire under your intentions and keeps you motivated.
Emotional energy is an actual “thing” (if you’ve ever walked into a room where there’s just been a big fight, you’ll know what I mean). The Universe senses our energy as it ripples outward, but that doesn’t mean it’s not just going to throw what you want into our laps. Put the work and the vision in; opportunity is always presenting itself, but only those paying attention will see it.
Now, go make something great happen!
-Elaina Garcia
Photo: Unsplash
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