Why is "Manifesting" a dangerous pop psychology trend?
- drmariecdumas
- Apr 22
- 6 min read
In today's world, the notion of "manifesting" has gained considerable traction as a supposed path to achieving success and happiness. In this article, I will explore why the duo of developing resilience in response to life's setbacks, and setting SMART Goals is a more effective strategy than the trend of manifesting.
Understanding the History of Manifestation
Manifestation is frequently portrayed as a magical process where merely thinking positively can attract good outcomes. This trend has gained momentum from memes to self-help books, though especially through social media influencers promoting the power of intention and visualization.
The term "manifesting", as it's commonly used today, especially in the context of visualizing desires or goals into reality through belief or intention, has roots that go back centuries, but its modern usage draws from a mix of pop-pseudo psychology, as well as new age spiritual, metaphysical, and self-help resources.
Etymology and Early Use:
The word "manifest" comes from the Latin word "manifestus", meaning obvious, clear, or evident. Originally used in English in the 14th century, to manifest, meant to make something evident or clear to the eye or mind. It was more about revealing or showing something that already exists rather than "creating" it.
Modern Usage: "Manifesting" as a Spiritual Practice
The concept of manifesting desires into reality became popular in the New Thought Movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in the U.S. and UK. This philosophy promoted the idea that thoughts create reality and positive thinking, affirmations, and visualization can bring about tangible results. Books like: "The Science of Getting Rich" (Wallace D. Wattles, 1910), "Think and Grow Rich" (Napoleon Hill, 1937), and later "The Secret" (Rhonda Byrne, 2006), popularized the idea of manifestation as an actual tool for achieving wealth, love, success, etc.. This movement created a stark departure from the original meaning which was to make something visible or clear that already exists, but is now defined as creating or attracting something into your life through intention, belief, and alignment.
With the rise of TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram, the term “manifesting”became a major part of Gen Z and Millennial spiritual/self-help culture in the 2020s. It’s often associated with:
- Journaling techniques (like the 3-6-9 method),
- Scripting your ideal life,
- Saying affirmations,
- Acting "as if" you already have what you want.
Recent "Manifestation" research experts write, "The degree of success people desire is rising. For example, a survey of 9.2 million Americans from 1966 to 2009 found recent generations placed higher value on achieving goals such as being rich, famous, and good-looking compared to past generations surveyed at the same age. Paradoxically, this level of success remains elusive for many people as demonstrated by rising income inequality and other structural barriers to wealth and upward mobility. Growing alongside this desire for success is an industry of “experts,” “gurus,” and “influencers” marketing inspiration, education, and systems of success. Videos featuring the tag “manifestation” on TikTok have been viewed 34.6 billion times as of May 2023." It is clear, this trend is increasing, and not decreasing despite proven negative effects.
The Research and Pitfalls of Relying on Manifestation
While optimism can be beneficial, relying on manifestation techniques can create a false sense of security. Taken to the extreme, it can be a dangerous practice wherein one develops unrealistic ideas of wealth, love, and power that will never come to fruition. The persistence of trying to "manifest" harder can result in devastation, and a doubling down on what is clearly not working with an end result of financial and emotional harm.
Relying on manifesting can create unrealistic expectations that you have complete control over your outcomes through your thoughts. This belief overlooks the reality of the inevitability of adverse life events, and the importance of hard work, contextual factors, and resilience for when things don't go your way. People who pour their emotional energy into manifesting, often find themselves in a cycle of frustration and stagnation.
Life is unpredictable and filled with obstacles. According to a study by the American Psychological Association, 75% of adults report feeling stress due to unforeseen events. Believing that positive thinking alone will shield you from challenges can lead to deep disappointment. When you face setbacks, the idea that failure stems from insufficient positive thinking may only breed guilt and a lack of motivation.
There has been recent research conducted at the University of California, Berkeley, examining the psychology of belief in manifestation. A study titled “The Secret to Success? The Psychology of Belief in Manifestation” was published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin in 2023. This research article by Lucas J. Dixon, Matthew J Hornsey, and Nicole Hartley, developed the Manifestation Scale to measure beliefs in manifestation.
The study found that over one-third of participants endorsed manifestation beliefs. Individuals who scored higher on the scale perceived themselves as more successful, had stronger aspirations for success, and believed they were more likely to achieve future success. However, these individuals were also more likely to be drawn to risky investments, have experienced bankruptcy, and to believe they could achieve an unlikely level of success more quickly.
The study suggests that while belief in manifestation may enhance confidence and optimism, it can also lead to unrealistic expectations and risky behaviors. The researchers emphasize the importance of critically examining such beliefs, especially in the context of the business and success industry, which often promotes manifestation as a path to achievement.
Resilience: A Practical Approach to Life's Disappointments
Resilience is the capacity to adapt to challenges and emerge stronger. Practicing resilience means accepting the inevitability of adverse events, and facing your disappointments instead of avoiding them. Here are some effective strategies to boost your resilience:
1. Acknowledge Your Emotions
Experiencing disappointment is part of being human, but recognizing those feelings is crucial. Allow yourself to feel emotions such as sadness, anger, or frustration. For instance, if you face a career setback, writing in a journal or discussing your feelings with a trusted friend can bring relief and clarity. Buddhist teaching in fact emphasizes the importance of accepting suffering and sitting with our emotions and thoughts in contemplation and letting go of painful expectations and attachments. Many find relief from suffering through such techniques, and research strongly backs the use of mindfulness and contemplative practices for the alleviation of distress.
2. Shift Your Perspective
A resilient mindset encourages you to reframe negative experiences. Instead of seeing failure as a dead end, think of it as a detour. For example, if you didn't get the job you wanted, consider how this might help you clarify what you really want in your career. Reflect on how this could improve your future job applications.
3. Develop Problem-Solving Skills
When you encounter obstacles, honing your problem-solving abilities can strengthen your resilience. Break large challenges into smaller, manageable steps. If you are overwhelmed by a big project, outline tasks you can tackle daily. This method allows you to regain a sense of control and direction.
4. Build a Support System
Having a network of supportive people including a therapist can vastly enhance your resilience. Encouragement from a professional, friends, family, or support groups can make a significant difference during tough times. Research shows that individuals with strong social connections have lower levels of stress and higher life satisfaction.
5. Cultivate Self-Compassion
Treating yourself with kindness during difficulties is vital for resilience. Accept that disappointment is a common experience and allow yourself to stumble without unnecessary self-judgment. This attitude will foster emotional well-being and encourage growth.
The Power of SMART Goals
While resilience is crucial for navigating life's challenges, effective goal-setting provides a structured way to move forward. Adopting SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) can lead to concrete results and a sense of accomplishment.
1. Specific
Clearly define what you want. Vague goals can create confusion. Instead of saying, "I want to be healthier," state how you will accomplish that: "I will walk for 30 minutes at least five days a week."
2. Measurable
Establish criteria for tracking your progress. This helps you celebrate small victories. For instance, you might measure health goals by tracking the number of walks completed or your energy levels over time.
3. Achievable
Set goals that are realistic. Challenging yourself is valuable, but aiming for the impossible can lead to disappointment. For example, instead of "I will run a marathon next month," consider "I will run a 5K in the next three months," allowing ample time to train.
4. Relevant
Ensure your goals connect to your values and long-term aspirations. Relevant goals provide meaning and motivation, helping you stay committed even when facing difficulties.
5. Time-bound
Set deadlines for your goals. A clear timeline creates a sense of urgency, making it easier to stay focused and motivated. For example, aim to achieve a specific goal within six months to keep yourself accountable.
Professional Advice
In a world increasingly swayed by trends like manifesting, it's vital to adopt realistic strategies for handling life's challenges, based on research and not opinion. Practicing resilience prepares you to face disappointments head-on, helping you learn and grow from them. Coupling resilience with the structured approach of SMART goals paves the way to a balanced and fulfilling life.
Remember that obstacles are not just barriers but opportunities for growth. By shifting your focus from simply wishing for success, to actively pursuing your goals, you will be better equipped to handle whatever life throws at you. Embracing resilience and actionable goals creates a powerful partnership that highlights the importance of effort, learning, and adaptability in your journey toward happiness and fulfillment. Professional assistance in applying these techniques can be tremendously helpful. Do schedule an appointment if I can be of help. You do not need to go it alone.
