Chapter 1: The Rise of Manifestation Culture

In recent years, the internet has seen a surge in discussions around the idea of "manifestation," often linked with terms like "vision board," "law of attraction," and "journaling." These concepts present a mystical approach to reality, suggesting that simply writing down or visualizing one’s goals can lead to their actualization.

Many individuals seeking change in their lives believe they can alter their circumstances by shifting their mindset and concentrating on their aspirations. Tools like lists, daily journals, and vision boards—visual representations of desired outcomes—have become increasingly popular on platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

The phenomenon of manifestation has gained significant traction online, evidenced by countless videos and posts garnering immense views. Its appeal lies in the comforting notion that one can influence their reality through the power of thought, a belief that gained momentum during the uncertain times of the 2020 lockdown.

Chapter 2: Celebrity Endorsements and Their Impact

The trend of manifesting has been further amplified by the endorsements of various celebrities who attribute their success to this practice. Notable figures such as Oprah Winfrey, Will Smith, Ashley Graham, and Ariana Grande have openly supported the idea.

Jim Carrey famously recounted how he wrote himself a $10 million check for "acting services" during his early career. He carried this check with him until he eventually landed a $10 million contract for the film Dumb & Dumber, suggesting a link between his manifestation efforts and his subsequent achievements.

This backing from prominent individuals lends credibility to the concept, particularly among those inclined to believe in such notions.

The first video titled "How to Visualize and Manifest Bigger Goals" explores techniques and mindsets that can help individuals effectively visualize their ambitions.

Chapter 3: The Historical Context of Manifestation

Recent publications in the U.S. have explored the magical thinking associated with manifestation, tracing its origins back to the 19th-century New Thought movement. This movement drew from various influences, including religious teachings and modern psychology, all of which shared the belief that thoughts could shape reality.

A significant catalyst for the contemporary manifestation craze was the 2006 release of the self-help book The Secret, which popularized the idea that thoughts could yield tangible outcomes.

As journalist Rebecca Jennings noted, "Humans have always enjoyed rebranding old concepts with new names to infuse them with excitement, but no technological advancement has accelerated this process quite like TikTok." The diverse interpretations of manifesting—whether through lists, journaling, or vision boards—reflect content creators' attempts to engage audiences with fresh perspectives and strategies.

The second video, "The Science of Setting & Achieving Goals," delves into the psychological aspects of goal-setting and the science behind achieving them.

Chapter 4: The Psychological Implications of Manifestation

While some psychologists recognize that a proactive, positive approach can benefit certain individuals, they also caution against the potential adverse effects of manifestation on mental health. Those who genuinely articulate their goals but struggle to achieve them may experience a significant blow to their self-esteem, leading to feelings of guilt, shame, or depression—especially among those with existing vulnerabilities.

This shift in perspective can alter not only how individuals perceive themselves but also how they view others. The individualistic mindset fostered by the manifestation philosophy encourages people to see themselves and others solely as independent actors chasing personal desires, neglecting the complex interconnections and social structures that shape our lives.

Moreover, there is growing concern that the belief in manifestation—asserting that mere focus on a goal will lead to its realization—might lead some, particularly those who are overly trusting, to make reckless decisions. This can manifest as neglecting necessary medical treatments or investing all their savings in dubious ventures, relying on manifestation to rectify potential missteps.

Thank you for reading!

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Wero