Stop manifesting, start living

We’ve all been there — dreaming big about our careers, relationships, or lifestyle, manifesting the life we want. And while visualising your dreams is a powerful tool, it’s not the whole picture.

I’m a firm believer in the power of mindset and positive thinking, but there’s a catch: manifestation alone won’t get you where you want to be. It’s easy to fall into the trap of believing that by simply focusing on your desires, the universe will do the rest. The truth is, real transformation happens when you combine your dreams with intentional, consistent action.

Sure, manifesting can be a beautiful practice, but if you’re not stepping out of your comfort zone and taking action, your dreams may stay just that — dreams. For many of us, especially over-thinkers, we can spend endless hours dreaming, but it’s the doing that turns vision into reality.

Common manifesting traps

Let’s explore how to break free from some common manifesting traps and move toward the life you envision.

The waiting game

When you’re stuck in the manifesting mindset, it’s easy to wait for life to happen rather than actively shaping it. Don’t let opportunities pass you by — start gently guiding your life in the direction of your dreams.

False comfort

While thinking about your desires can be soothing, real growth happens when you push beyond your current situation. It’s about taking that first, small, hesitant step out of your comfort zone.

Mental health impact

Constantly thinking about your dreams without acting on them can create anxiety. Manifestation without action can lead to frustration and even harm your mental health.

So, how do we shift from dreaming to doing?

How to shift from dreaming to doing

1. Dream strategically

Here I want you to indulge in your dreams. I want you to write down your absolute dream life. Don’t be practical at all. Don’t think about the realities for just a second. Be bold in your vision. Think about your perfect day. Then think about which elements of that you can carry forward into your normal life. This is an activity I love doing with my clients because so often when we do it together they realise that there are so many elements that they can add to their current lives.  

2. Make it easy peasy lemon squeezy

I once read in James Clears’ Atomic Habits (a fantastic read) that you need to make the habit as easy as possible and stick to it for 21 days to actually stick to this. James Clear provided the example of reading. If you tell someone to read for two hours a day, they’ll make excuses. But if you tell them to read for two minutes a day it feels much more achievable and you will easily slot it into your day.

So my advice to you here is to think about the first action you can take which will take no longer than five minutes and do it either today or tomorrow. Then write a list of three more small tasks and when you plan on doing them. 

3. Nurture a daily ritual

This is a really important one. You want to start framing these two-minute habits as daily rituals that nourish your soul and make you feel good. Framing is everything. Instead of seeing action as a big leap, think of it as a ritual of care. 

4. Recruit someone to set deadlines for you

If you notice yourself going off track recruit someone to set you some deadlines. This is daunting and the deadlines might push you out of your comfort zone, but in line with Parkinson’s law, you will get the work done in the time that you have allocated and if you allocate too much time, you’ll procrastinate. 

5. Stay flexible and allow flow

Sometimes, the path you envision may shift as you move forward. Trust that this is part of the process. Being open to change allows you to adapt while staying true to your vision. When things don’t go as planned, trust that there are other ways forward. Let go of rigid expectations, and remain open to the possibilities that unfold as you take action.

6. Listen to your intuition

As you take steps, pay attention to how you feel. Your intuition will guide you toward the actions that feel aligned and authentic to you.

7. As always, celebrate the small wins

It obviously goes without saying that you’ve got to be your biggest cheerleader throughout this process. Celebrate every win, no matter how small. 

Why a life coach makes all the difference

Accountability is the key to turning your dreams into reality, and a life coach provides the perfect blend of support and accountability. Working with a coach gives you a compassionate guide who not only helps you set goals but ensures you stay on track and avoid falling back into old patterns. A coach tailors the journey to your pace and your needs, offering emotional support and practical strategies along the way.

Coaching is about more than just keeping you accountable — it’s about empowering you. You’ll have someone in your corner, cheering you on, guiding you through challenges, and helping you break through those mental barriers that have held you back. With their support, you’ll not only dream but also do. You’ll turn those manifestations into tangible results, taking consistent steps toward the life you truly want.

So I guess my final question for you is... what are you waiting for?