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We’ve all heard about manifestation—the idea that if you visualize something hard enough, it’ll magically show up in your life. But is there actually any science behind it, or is it just wishful thinking?
Turns out, research backs up the idea that what we focus on does shape our reality. Manifestation isn’t about daydreaming your way to wealth—it’s about rewiring your brain to recognize opportunities, take action, and stay consistent in pursuit of your goals.
Studies on neuroplasticity show that our thoughts can literally reshape our brains, strengthening the neural pathways that support our beliefs and behaviors.
In other words, manifestation works because it trains your brain to align with the reality you want to create. Pretty cool, right? But mindset alone isn’t enough—you also have to take action.
Below are 10 ways to combine the power of manifestation with real-world strategies to bring your financial dreams to life.
1. Get Crystal Clear on What You Want
Once you’ve defined your financial dream, write it down, say it out loud, and revisit it often.
Manifestation works best when you’re specific. Saying “I want to be rich” doesn’t give your brain anything to work with. Instead, define exactly what financial success looks like for you. Is it paying off $50K in student loans? Saving $100K? Earning six figures from your own business?
Get as detailed as possible—write down the amount you want to earn, save, or invest, along with a realistic timeline. A good framework to follow is the SMART goal method.
- Specific: Instead of “I want to make more money,” try “I want to earn an additional $2,000 per month from freelancing.”
- Measurable: Track your progress so you know when you’ve hit your goal.
- Achievable: Stretch yourself, but make sure your goal is within reach.
- Relevant: Align your goals with what truly matters to you.
- Time-bound: Set a deadline to stay motivated.
2. Shift Your Money Mindset
Your financial situation won’t change overnight, but the way you think about money can—and that’s the first step toward lasting change.
Your mindset about money influences the financial reality you create. If you believe “I’ll always be struggling” or “I’m just not good with money,” you’ll subconsciously reinforce those beliefs with your actions.
To shift into an abundance mindset:
- Stop using negative money talk like “I’m broke” or “I’ll never be able to afford that.” Instead, say “I’m prioritizing my spending right now” or “I’m working toward affording that soon.”
- Surround yourself with people and content that reinforce financial growth. Follow finance creators, listen to podcasts, or join a community of people working toward similar goals.
- Express gratitude for what you already have. Gratitude signals to your brain that you have enough, reducing feelings of scarcity and anxiety.
3. Create a Vision Board (Physical of Digital)
A vision board isn’t just about looking at pretty pictures—it’s about creating a daily reminder of what you’re working toward.
This one is my ABSOLUTE FAVORITE! A vision board is a powerful visualization tool that keeps your financial goals front and center. It works by reinforcing your desires in your subconscious mind, making them feel more achievable.
Include images of your goals—screenshots of your debt balance at $0, a dream home, travel destinations, or an investment portfolio screenshot. Add words or affirmations like “Financial Freedom”, “Debt-Free”, or “Six-Figure Business Owner.”
If you aren’t into physical vision boards use Pinterest, Canva, or a simple Google Doc! I personally prefer digital because I can set it as my desktop background so that I see it everyday.
Want a step-by-step guide to how I created my 2025 vision board? Check out my upcoming post on How I Created My Vision Board.
4. Act Like the Person Who Has Already Achieved It
The key is to start embodying that version of yourself now—without sabotaging your budget.
If you had already reached your financial goal, how would you behave? How would you spend, save, or invest? No, I am not suggesting that if your goal is to become a millionaire that you start spending money like it. Remember, this is about manifestation and mindset.
- If your future self is financially responsible, start tracking your spending today.
- If your dream self runs a successful business, dedicate time to developing that idea now.
- If you want to feel confident with money, start educating yourself—read finance books, listen to money podcasts, or take an online course.
This isn’t about reckless spending—it’s about developing the habits and mindset of someone who is already financially successful.
5. Align Your Daily Habits With Your Big Goals
Manifestation is nothing without action. Small, consistent habits compound over time and lead to major financial shifts.
Some daily/weekly habits to align with your financial goals:
- Automate your savings so you don’t have to think about it.
- Do a weekly money check-in—track your income, expenses, and progress.
- Set a monthly goal (e.g., cutting a certain expense, adding a new income stream).
- Surround yourself with financial inspiration—follow finance creators or read one money-related article a day.
Your daily habits determine your long-term success, so make sure they align with the future you want.
6. Rewrite Your Financial Story
Challenge limiting beliefs and replace them with ones that serve you.
Most people’s money beliefs are shaped by their upbringing. If you grew up hearing things like “Money is hard to earn” or “People like us will never be rich”, those ideas can subconsciously hold you back. To rewrite your financial story:
- Identify your limiting beliefs. What negative thoughts do you have about money? Where did they come from?
- Challenge them. If you believe “I’ll always be in debt”, replace it with “I have the ability to pay off my debt step by step.”
- Adopt new money affirmations. Try: “I am capable of financial success.” or “I am in control of my financial future.”
The way you think about money directly impacts how you handle it—so make sure your story is one that supports your goals.
7. Speak It Into Existence
Affirmations are a powerful way to reprogram your subconscious mind. The key is to say them like you believe them—not just as empty words.
Examples of financial affirmations:
- Money flows to me effortlessly.
- I am open to new income opportunities.
- I am financially secure and thriving.
Say them out loud, write them down, or repeat them while looking in the mirror. Over time, these statements become part of your internal dialogue, reinforcing your belief in financial success.
8. Take Inspired Action
Manifestation isn’t magic—it requires intentional effort. You have to take steps toward your goals, even if they’re small at first.
Some real-world actions you can take:
- Start a side hustle—even if it’s small, it’s a step toward extra income.
- Negotiate your salary—you’d be surprised how many people don’t even ask.
- Create a budget that actually works—one that fits your lifestyle and financial goals.
Opportunities come to those who are actively moving toward their goals.
9. Surround Yourself With Financially-Minded People
Being around people with a positive money mindset will push you to level up.
Your environment plays a huge role in your financial success. If you’re constantly surrounded by people who view money as a struggle, it’s easy to adopt that mindset. To shift your environment:
- Follow personal finance creators who inspire you.
- Join a community of people working toward financial freedom.
- Start open, honest money conversations with friends who share similar goals.
10. Trust the Process & Stay Consistent
Trust that as long as you keep showing up for your goals, progress is inevitable.
Financial success doesn’t happen overnight, but every small step adds up. There will be setbacks, slow months, and moments of doubt, but consistency is what separates those who succeed from those who quit.
Manifestation + Action = Financial Success
Manifesting your financial dreams isn’t about wishing for money and hoping it magically appears—it’s about aligning your mindset, habits, and actions with the future you want. When you get clear on your goals, shift your money mindset, and take consistent action, you set yourself up for success in ways you never imagined.
The key? Stay patient and trust the process. You won’t see results overnight, but every intentional step you take—every dollar saved, every smart financial decision—moves you closer to the life you’re manifesting.
So start today. Write down your goals, reframe any limiting beliefs, and commit to showing up for your financial future. Your dream life is already in motion—it’s just waiting for you to claim it.
[featured image: Landscape Vectors by Vecteezy]
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I’d love to hear from you! How did you create your student loan repayment plan?
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