Manifesting has become increasingly popular over the past decade, thanks to social media, self-help culture, and an interest in wellness practices that blur the line between psychology and spirituality. You’ve probably seen people talking about “speaking things into existence” or “putting faith into the universe” to attract better outcomes. But is manifesting just another woo-woo wellness trend, or is there something real behind it?
Like many concepts adopted by the wellness world, the truth sits somewhere in the middle. Manifesting isn’t magic, and it’s definitely not a shortcut to success, but some principles behind it do have solid grounding in behavioural science and psychology. At the same time, some interpretations have become overly mystical, commercialised or misleading.
What Actually Is Manifesting?
Manifesting is the idea that your thoughts, beliefs, and intentions can shape your reality. It suggests that envisioning what you want, whether that’s a new job, healthier habits, or improved relationships, can help bring those things into your life.
It brings together a combination of cognitive psychology, neuroscience, positive psychology, spiritual traditions like meditation, visualisation, mindfulness, and some New Age metaphysical ideas to influence the modern manifestation movement. It’s when the metaphysical elements get exaggerated, like “the universe will deliver your dreams if you just think hard enough,” that manifesting gets its woo-woo reputation.
Where Manifesting Aligns With Science
While you won’t find peer-reviewed papers confirming that the universe sends you exactly what you put out, several psychological principles explain why some manifesting techniques may work.
The Power of Visualisation
Visualisation is often used in sports psychology, leadership training and therapeutic settings, not because it’s mystical, but because mentally rehearsing success can improve confidence and performance. Some research shows that visualisation can activate similar brain pathways to real-life action, helping you feel more prepared and capable.
Cognitive Biases and Selective Attention
Manifesting often involves focusing heavily on your goals, which can activate the reticular activating system, which is the part of your brain that filters information. When you consistently focus on something, you start noticing more opportunities related to it. This doesn’t mean you’ve magically attracted these opportunities, they were always there, you’re just more likely to notice them.
Behaviour Change and Goal Setting
Manifestation practices like journalling, repeating affirmations, and clarifying your goals are essentially forms of structured goal-setting. Writing down goals has been shown to increase accountability and follow-through.
Emotional Regulation and Mindfulness
Many manifestation methods overlap with mindfulness techniques that can reduce stress and support emotional well-being. Lower stress levels can improve decision-making, resilience and motivation, which all help you achieve your goals.
Where Manifesting Becomes Woo Woo
The “Think Positive, and Everything Will Magically Happen” Trap
Some versions of manifesting suggest you can get what you want without taking action. This is where it loses credibility, because thoughts alone can’t replace effort, planning or persistence. Visualising a healthier body won’t improve your fitness unless you exercise, and dreaming about a promotion won’t get you one unless you actively develop your skills or put yourself forward.
Blaming Yourself for Negative Experiences
The idea that you “attract” everything into your life can be harmful. It oversimplifies complex life circumstances and may cause people to feel guilt or shame for situations outside their control.
Over-commercialisation
From manifestation journals to crystals to high-priced coaching programs, the wellness industry has eagerly and heavily monetised manifesting. There’s nothing wrong with using tools that help you stay grounded or motivated, but it’s important to stay aware of marketing tactics. For example, if you’re shopping for spiritual tools, it’s best to choose reputable sources when buying retail crystals online, rather than relying on low-quality mass-produced items.
Are Spiritual Tools Helpful or Just Aesthetic?
Some people use tools like crystals, incense, vision boards or meditation apps to support their manifestation practice. While the scientific evidence behind crystals is limited, as they don’t hold measurable energy or influence your environment in a proven way, using tools like them can be helpful to create an environment that is tailored to your practice. Just like setting up your desk space to stay on task when you work from home, lighting incense or setting out some crystals that you feel you resonate with can help create a sense of ritual around your goal-setting sessions.
You could try something like holding a crystal during meditation to help you stay focused, lighting incense to create a calming environment, or using a vision board to strengthen goal clarity and motivation. These tools don’t “attract” outcomes, but they can create an atmosphere that encourages consistency and intentionality.
So… Does Manifesting Work?
Well, that depends on what you mean by “work.” Manifesting works when it’s grounded in action, intention, and self-awareness. Clarify what you want with specific goals to make them easier to pursue, and visualise success to boost your confidence and preparedness. Focus your attention so that you notice more opportunities aligned with your goals, and regulate your emotions with mindfulness, which supports resilience and clearer thinking. Create momentum with affirmations and journaling to help maintain motivation over time.
The parts that don’t work? Expecting results without effort, relying on the universe alone, or believing you “attract” every positive or negative experience.
How to Use Manifesting in a Practical, Evidence-Informed Way
Start With Clarity
Write down what you want and why you want it. The “why” keeps you motivated when things get tough.
Visualise Strategically
Spend a few minutes each day imagining yourself taking action and overcoming challenges, not just enjoying the result.
Use Realistic Affirmations
Swap “Money flows to me effortlessly” for “I’m developing the skills and confidence to grow my income.”
Pair Every Intention With Action
Turning your goals into steps makes them achievable, but you can only achieve them if you act on them. Don’t just write your goals down and expect them to materialise without putting in the work.
Build Supportive Habits
Meditation, journaling, and even tools like crystals (if you enjoy them) can help you stay focused.
Stay Open to Opportunities
Instead of waiting for the universe to “send a sign,” stay curious and aware, act on leads, and take initiative.
Manifesting isn’t just woo-woo, but it’s not magic either. At its core, manifesting is a blend of psychology, mindset and intentional action. When used properly, it can help you clarify your goals, stay motivated, and improve your overall well-being. When misused, it can lead to unrealistic expectations or oversimplified thinking.
If you enjoy the spiritual side, great. If you prefer the science-backed perspective, there’s plenty there too. What matters most is using manifesting in a way that feels empowering, grounded and aligned with your life.
