Can Manifesting Actually Help New Year Resolutions?

I don’t know about you but 2025 gave me such a good thrashing that I’ll literally do anything to ensure that 2026 is a better year. Whether this means paying an Etsy witch to make my dreams come through or taking a cold plunge every morning, I’ll do it. I don’t care.

One friend suggested that I put my tarot card collection to good use and actually manifest better days for myself using the cards to guide my intentions for the year ahead.

After shrugging off what felt like a bit of a ridiculous suggestion, I looked into it and it turns out, there is some truth to it.

In case you’re a little out the loop on this definition of manifestation, Psychology Today explains it nicely saying: “Manifesting is the idea that, through the power of belief, we can effectively “think” a goal into becoming reality. It’s a form of “magical thinking,” or the need to believe that one’s hopes and desires can have an effect on how the world turns.”

Tanya J. Peterson, NCC, DAIS, licensed therapist, spoke with Parade about the truth of manifesting. She admitted that, to her, as a concept, it’s mostly “fluff.” But as a practice, it can improve your self-concept and, in turn, lead to more inspired action.

“This is where concepts from positive psychology come into play, particularly optimism, resilience, and character strengths,” she told the publication.

“When you can accept and acknowledge that life has negatives and setbacks, identify your own strengths and positive character traits, and use your strengths every day to take steps toward your goals, you position yourself to manifest your deepest dreams and desires.”

Basically, repeatedly telling yourself that you will get everything you desire no matter the roadblocks, is more likely to result in you getting exactly what you want.

Maybe believing in yourself and your innate abilities to achieve your goals is what you actually need.