I’ve heard people say more than once, “I’m manifesting it.” What they mean is simple: they want a dream or goal to become reality. Lately, this phrase has taken on a life of its own on social media. TikTok feeds are filled with videos—most often created by young women—breaking down timelines of how believing in something somehow shifted their lives. Even some of my own friends have leaned into manifestation during transitional periods, when careers, relationships, and life itself feel uncertain. Personally, I use it as a motivational tool whenever I’m setting new goals.
And maybe you’ve already seen the 2025 trend of creating a “New Year Vision Board.” It’s essentially the same idea, just dressed up with images, lists, and inspirational quotes.
Why manifestation has become so popular
In 2024, the Cambridge Dictionary even named manifest the word of the year. High-profile names like singer Dua Lipa and comedian Nikki Glaser have credited manifestation with their career milestones. But what’s actually behind this movement?
Psychologists say manifestation isn’t magic—it’s grounded in the principles of positive psychology. According to Madrid-based therapist Laura Palomares, its appeal lies in the sense of control it offers in uncertain times. “Social media rituals around manifestation give people a way to feel agency in a world that feels unpredictable,” she explains.
Manifestation coach Maïté Issaa adds, “We’re living in a period of constant lifestyle shifts and global instability. People, especially young adults, are reaching for new tools to find stability and purpose.”
Why women are leading the trend
Scroll through TikTok manifestation content, and you’ll notice the majority of creators are women. Issaa isn’t surprised. “Many women grew up with limiting beliefs around money, success, or self-worth. Manifestation is a way to rewrite those narratives.” Most of her clients, aged between 25 and 50, aren’t just chasing material goals—they want confidence, stronger self-esteem, and emotional fulfillment. Yes, some are manifesting career success or financial stability, but just as many are focused on love, health, or inner peace.
Manifestation is action, not magic
Here’s the truth: manifestation isn’t about waiting for the universe to magically deliver your dreams. It’s about aligning your mindset and actions with what you want. “It isn’t a meaningless ritual,” Issaa stresses. “It only works when you take steps toward your goals.”
Vision boards, affirmations, or repeating mantras aren’t enough on their own. They may help you focus, but without action, nothing changes. Psychologists link manifestation to the law of attraction, which suggests that repeated, intentional focus on a goal can influence outcomes—but only if paired with consistent effort.
The psychology behind belief
Why does manifestation seem to work for so many? Repetition builds motivation. Positive reminders—whether self-directed or coming from others—can spark constructive behaviors and drive momentum. Still, experts caution against turning manifestation into an all-or-nothing formula. “It’s a powerful tool, but not the only path to success. Life’s circumstances still matter,” says Palomares.
Manifestation, at its best, pushes you to clarify what you want and then create new habits that align with those goals. It reshapes subconscious beliefs, which explains why faith in an outcome can actually shift behavior—and ultimately, results.
How to actually practice manifestation
Forget about waiting for the universe to “deliver.” Instead, start by asking yourself: If I didn’t have to meet anyone’s expectations, and I knew success was guaranteed, what would I truly want? Once you identify that vision, shape your daily actions and decisions around it.
But remember, manifestation doesn’t mean life will bend to your will. Circumstances, timing, and external factors will always play a role. That’s why experts emphasize: it’s not about forcing outcomes, but about becoming the kind of person who naturally attracts or creates them.
In other words, manifestation isn’t about sitting back—it’s about aligning your beliefs, emotions, and actions with the reality you want to create. It helps you see possibilities more clearly, while also acknowledging the limitations of real life. The rest, as always, is left to time.
Takeaway: Manifestation isn’t about magic—it’s about clarity, belief, and action. Think of it less as waiting for a miracle, and more as training your mind to recognize and seize opportunities.
