Have you ever explored the power of positive affirmations? These concise yet profoundly impactful phrases can rewire our subconscious mind. Studies reveal that manifestation and positive affirmations are grounded not just in spiritual beliefs but also in robust scientific research. Intrigued? Let’s dive deeper!
The effectiveness of positive affirmations is backed by numerous psychological and neurological studies that explore how they influence brain function and the creation of our reality. Although we typically associate the placebo effect with negative situations, it too is based on this principle. When someone believes a positive event or change will happen in their life, their emotional and psychological state can improve, triggering self-healing and growth processes. This positive mindset is one of the foundations of how manifestation works.
The brain has the ability to adapt, change, and form new connections. This is scientifically known as neuroplasticity. Research shows that the human brain continually reshapes itself based on our experiences, thoughts, and emotions. When someone regularly repeats positive affirmations, the brain gradually becomes accustomed to these new thoughts and beliefs, forming new neural connections that support positive changes.
Oprah Winfrey, one of the world’s most famous television personalities, has spoken openly about the role positive thinking and visualization have played in her life. One of her core principles is the “practice of gratitude,” through which she expresses thankfulness not only for her current achievements but also for the goals she is striving toward.
Jim Carrey, comedian and actor, shared a particularly memorable example. As an unknown actor, he wrote himself a check for $10 million for a future acting job. He carried this check in his wallet for years while continuously visualizing success and breakthrough. A few years later, he landed one of his major roles in the film Dumb and Dumber, for which he received exactly a $10 million paycheck.
Serena Williams often uses positive affirmations and visualization techniques to mentally prepare for competitions. She talks about saying positive affirmations to herself every morning, such as “I am strong” or “I will win,” to enhance her focus and confidence.
Marilyn Monroe frequently used visualization and positive affirmations. Early in her career, she often visualized becoming a successful actress. Her case beautifully illustrates the idea that everything is decided in the mind; she was able to “switch” into star mode.
You’ve likely heard the story of when she walked in New York with photographer Ed Feingersh in 1955. As a simple, everyday woman, no one noticed her. Then she asked Ed, “Do you want to see her?” and at that moment, she transformed into Marilyn, the iconic film star, simply by changing her body language, aura, and famous smile.
Did you ever think this was all manifestation? If you think about it, you might already have subconsciously used some techniques yourself.
How to use positive affirmations effectively
Being personal and present-tense will help your brain perceive the desired state as if it’s already reality. For example,as confidence boosting, instead “I’ll be confident and strong” try “I am confident and strong”.Feel the difference? When using present tense you’re assuming that you already are the person who you want to be. It’s also very important to formulate your affirmations in a positive way. Avoid negative phrases, even with good intentions. Instead of saying “I don’t want to be anxious anymore,” say “I am calm and balanced. The more you hear or say these phrases, the deeper they penetrate and the more impact they have on your thoughts and emotions. You can use them any time of the day.
I made this mistake for such a long time. I’d write down 10–15 affirmations and read them out loud every single day—without actually feeling anything.And then I’d wonder why nothing was manifesting. Spoiler: it wasn’t manifesting… it was just reciting a bunch of words.If you’re rushing through your affirmations just to tick a box on your to-do list, they won’t work.
What really matters is the emotion behind the words.For example, when you say “I am successful,” pause and actually connect with what success feels like—for you.
The more deeply you feel the emotion, the more powerfully it imprints on your subconscious.If the affirmations feel too distant or hard to believe, start with smaller steps. If “I am a millionaire” feels unbelievable, try “I am open to financial abundance.”
Many people make the mistake of fixating so much on achieving something that their thoughts start to revolve solely around it.
I’ve done that too.There was a time when I desperately wanted to manifest my crush into my life, without ever stopping to consider whether he was even right for me.I was so focused on the outcome that I completely neglected myself. My life felt chaotic, but I kept wondering—why isn’t my manifestation working?Looking back, it’s clear: He wasn’t meant for me.
Because how can something beautiful arrive when you’re not in a space to receive it?But the moment I started living for me—focusing on my own growth, happiness, and peace—the things I once chased began to naturally align. The goal came closer, not because I obsessed over it, but because I became the version of myself who was truly ready for it.
Take the necessary steps, then let go. Nothing in the world happens without some effort. Do what you can do in your current situation for your goal, and take action. Trust that it will arrive at the right time. You’ve planted the seed and know it will sprout. You water and care for it, but you don’t keep pulling it out of the ground to check if it’s growing.
Excessive attachment can limit your options, as you only accept one outcome as acceptable. If you’re open to the idea that your goals can manifest in various ways, new opportunities will find you more easily. You might not know how to achieve a specific goal, and that’s okay; if you stay open, life will present you with possibilities.
Many believe that positive affirmations mean we shouldn’t have negative thoughts at all. This is not true. We cannot completely eliminate negative thoughts, nor should we. They are part of life and often serve a protective function, wanting to keep us in our comfort zone. It’s essential to recognize these thoughts and understand they do not define us. What matters is how we respond to them and whether we give them power. When a negative thought arises, we can consciously choose to let it go and focus on positive affirmations instead.
The universe has its own pace, and when you’re open, you’ll notice the opportunities that have remained hidden until now. Be patient, trust the process, and know that every step you take toward your goals brings you closer to realizing your dreams.
