Manifesting More Using Magic

I’ve had some amazing books fall into my lap recently. In 2023, “Tomorrowmind” by @Gabrielle Kellerman and @Martin Seligman was my favorite read and so far in 2024 the nod goes to “Mind Magic” by Dr. James Doty who founded CCARE at @Stanford not too far from where I took this photo in Union Square, San Franscisco.  

“Mind Magic” impressed so much because of the author’s deep understanding of the human brain and also his deep expertise in mindfulness. Manifestation, according to Doty, isn’t about the powers of the universe aligned for you but the powers inside the brain being trained to seek what you desire. That’s the magic.

DIPPING MY TOES INTO THE UNIVERSE

I remember some of my first forays into manifesting while taking refresher Spanish classes at community college in Florida the teacher took it upon himself to start each class with mindfulness and manifestation tools. I was a non-traditional student at the time, in my 30s, and found the concepts valuable and energizing.

Two things jump out from “Mind Magic”

1. The neuroscience of manifestation is solidly explained and our power to rewire our brains has been well understood for some time. Dr. Doty’s explanation of how neuroplasticity can be utilized on our subconscious to manifest was profound.
2. Manifestations aligned with service towards others has a special significance.

“The world responds favorably and generously to a purpose that heals and invites life to flow.” – “James R. Doty, “Mind Magic”

I remember dabbling again into mindfulness a decade after those college sessions, watching “The Secret” and having a singular response: “Ew.” It just didn’t feel right with a heavy focus on materialism. And don’t get me wrong, I like material things and aspire to grow my wealth, something about that movie just didn’t stick.

SO WHAT ABOUT THE UNIVERSE

I’ll encourage you to read the book for Doty’s straight forward thoughts on the Universe and its concern for your desires. Less than zero is the corporate friendly language I’ll use compared to the author. While “Mind Magic” focuses internally on the subconscious I am not at all dismissing what powers are well beyond my imagination in a Universe with billions of galaxies in a small sliver of the night sky. Is their power in prayer and the spoken word. Sure, I’m nodding, especially when I make my intentions explicit to others. “Mind Magic” even employs the use of reciting our intentions out loud.

I’m hoping by the end of 2024 that my newest book “The Little Book of Workplace Happiness” is your favorite read of 2024 but in the meantime, what’s been your best read of 2024 thus far?