The Law of Attraction vs. The Law of Assumption—Which One Actually Works?

My daughter is a master manifestor. We made vision boards this past New Year’s Eve and three of her visions have come true already…and it’s the middle of February. From “preppy” hair clips to a few unplanned vacations, she’s pretty good at her craft. Human Design has her pegged perfectly: her design says she’s one of the lucky 8-10% of the population where manifesting comes easily.

Seeing how effortlessly my daughter’s desires came true made me reflect on what manifestation really is and why it seems to work better for some people than others.

What is Manifestation?

Manifestation is the belief that our thoughts and assumptions shape our reality. By focusing on a desired outcome—whether consciously or subconsciously—we bring it into existence. When we focus on positivity, we attract positive experiences. When we dwell in negativity, we reinforce a cycle of lack and struggle.

There are many manifestation methods, but today I’m focusing on two: the law of attraction and the law of assumption.

The Law of Attraction

The Law of Attraction suggests that what you focus on expands. If you constantly think about abundance, you’ll attract opportunities for wealth. If you dwell on scarcity, you may continue to experience lack. The Law of Attraction, made popular by books like “The Secret”, is closely attuned to the principle that like attracts like. That your vibe attracts your proverbial tribe. In the Law of Attraction we focus on phrases like “I will find the love of my life”. “I will be successful”.

The problem with the Law of Attraction is that it often stems from a mindset of lack. You’re putting it out into the universe that you’re lacking something which is somewhat antithetical to the point of the law of attraction. When you say ‘I will find love’ or ‘I will be successful,’ you are confirming that you don’t have it yet. Your subconscious mind picks up on that gap, and instead of drawing your desires closer, you stay in a state of waiting. This is why many people feel frustrated with the Law of Attraction—it keeps them yearning instead of receiving.

The Law of Assumption

The Law of Assumption, popularized by Neville Goddard, is the principle of assuming that you already have what you want. There is no longing for it, or feeling of less than. When affirming with the Law of Assumption we focus on phrases such as “I am loved” or I am rich” and embody that every day rather than waiting for those signs to come for you. If you’re anything like me and believe there are many versions of ourselves out there in the multiverse, I liken the law of assumption to knowing that there’s a version of you that has what you’re after – you just need to embody that person.

With the Law of Assumption you’re not waiting for external validation, reality is what you believe to be true. Now, I could see where this may venture into the waters of delusion if one doesn’t fully understand the law…please don’t try to make your way to a celebrity’s home and assume to be his or her wife or husband…free will exists! You can’t assume yourself into another person’s life. However, you can assume a loving, healthy relationship enters into your orbit – remember, this is about you. You are in control of your Youniverse and no one else’s.

Changing How I Manifest

Unlike my daughter, pointed manifestation doesn’t come easy for me. I know from all of my studies that positivity begets positivity, but my manifestations were always general. Last year, my vision board was filled with promises that never materialized. Looking back, I realize it was because I was focused on what I lacked. I kept saying ‘I will’—which meant I was always waiting – unknowingly using The Law of Attraction.

This year, I changed my approach.

Instead of future tense goals, I wrote ‘I am’ statements. Instead of ‘I will indulge in luxurious things,’ I wrote ‘I indulge in luxurious things.’ Instead of ‘I will write a book,’ I claimed, ‘I wrote a book.’ The shift has been powerful. By assuming these things are already true, I’m no longer chasing them—they are unfolding naturally.

Manifest Like You Mean It

Manifestation isn’t just about wishing for something—it’s about knowing it’s already yours. The Law of Attraction teaches us to align with what we desire, but it can sometimes keep us in a state of wanting. The Law of Assumption, on the other hand, invites us to step into the version of ourselves who already has what we seek.

This small yet powerful shift—from hoping to knowing, from wanting to being—can change everything. My daughter’s effortless manifestations aren’t magic; they’re the result of a belief in her reality. And now, I’m starting to see the same unfold in my own life.

So ask yourself: Are you waiting for your dreams to come true, or are you assuming they already have?

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