Manifestation isn’t just for TikTokers with crystals and vision boards; it’s a powerful tool for midlife women looking to reignite their sense of purpose and joy. Whether you’re navigating a career pivot, searching for love, or just figuring out what really makes you happy after years of prioritizing everyone else, manifestation can change your life.
Here’s the thing, though—manifesting in midlife isn’t about simply wishing for things to happen. It’s about clearing the mental biases we’ve picked up over the years and actively working toward making our dreams come true. Most importantly, manifestation requires us to put ourselves at the center of the process and think about what we want.
In The Selfish Season, we break down the manifestation process into four essential steps: Ask, Believe, Act, and Receive. Before we jump into the process, however, there are some midlife thinking habits it might be time to challenge.
Midlife Misconceptions to Clear First
Midlife brings its own set of hurdles, many of which are just mental hang-ups we’ve collected through years of societal messages and personal experiences. To manifest successfully, it’s important to address—and reframe—common midlife misconceptions.
“It’s Too Late for Me.”
Who says? Midlife isn't a death sentence; it’s a rebirth. Oprah started her “second act” in her 50s. Vera Wang didn’t enter the fashion industry until her 40s. Trinny Woodall built her empire in her 50s. You’ve got plenty of time to make big moves, whether it’s a career change, a passion project, or finally prioritizing your health and happiness.
Reframe: It’s not “too late”; you’re actually in the perfect phase of life to go after what you really want—with zero apologies.
“I’ve Always Been a [Fill in the Blank].”
Whether it’s “always been the breadwinner,” “always been the caretaker,” or “always put others first,” these labels need to go. Sometimes, we get so wrapped up in being everything for everyone else that we forget who we are when the roles are stripped away.
Reframe: Who you’ve “always been” is just one version of your story. You can rewrite it anytime.
“Manifesting Sounds Woo-Woo.”
We hear you—we’ve seen the manifestation grifters on Instagram and have rolled our eyes too. But manifesting is less about “magic” and more about aligning your mindset with actions that help you achieve your goals. It’s neuroscience meets self-care, with a dash of intention, and it works.
Reframe: It’s not woo-woo; it’s practical optimism paired with purpose-driven action.
Once you’ve taken a look at your beliefs and pushed those blocks aside, it’s time to get into the steps of manifesting what you truly want.
The 4-Step Manifestation Process
1. Ask
Start by getting super honest with yourself about what you want. And here’s the kicker—it has to be your want, not someone else’s expectation of what you should do.
Take some alone time with a journal. What are you craving—financial freedom? A dream vacation? A partner who aligns with your values? Write it down, like you’re talking to your most trusted friend. Be specific.
Example: Instead of saying, “I want to make more money,” write, “I want to earn $100,000 annually through a career I love by [date].”
This first step sets the tone. The more clarity you have in your "ask," the easier it becomes to focus your energy on making it happen.
Grab the FREE Manifesting Workbook to help you get very clear on what you want by signing up for our newsletter.
2. Believe
This step trips most people up—you’ve asked for something, but do you really believe you can have it? Do you believe you deserve it? Here’s where we do some serious internal work.
Believing requires you to challenge those nasty inner voices telling you that you’re not smart enough, pretty enough, or capable enough. It’s about replacing that self-doubt with affirmations and proof from your own life that you can do hard things.
Pro-tip: Surround yourself with people who lift you up and validate your goals. If your current circle isn’t doing this, it’s time to audit your friendships. You're building this dream for you, not to shrink for others.
Actionable Tip: Write down three affirmations daily that support your goal, like “I am skilled and capable of earning $100K on my own terms,” and repeat them until they feel second nature.
3. Act
Spoiler alert—manifestation isn’t actually about sitting back and waiting for the Universe to drop opportunities in your lap. You’ve got to meet the Universe halfway by taking inspired action.
Break your goal down into actionable steps, then start checking them off. If you want to launch a business, research market trends or register a domain name. Want to meet new friends? Join classes, events, or clubs that align with your interests.
Remember, inspired action doesn’t have to mean perfect action. Start messy. Start scared. Just start.
Example: If you're manifesting a new career, refresh your resume or book a coffee chat with someone working in your dream field. Small steps create big momentum.
4. Receive
Receiving is the art of letting good things flow into your life without guilt. Women in midlife are pros at giving—but receiving? That’s a skill we need to brush up on.
Whether it’s a compliment, an unexpected opportunity, or the exact thing you manifested showing up, accept it without question. Don’t overthink or self-sabotage.
Pro-tip: Practicing gratitude amplifies this step. Keep a gratitude journal, and write three things you’re grateful for every day. This trains your brain to notice and attract more positivity.
Manifest Your Best Midlife
Manifestation isn’t magic—it’s a mindset shift combined with deliberate, unapologetic action. By clearing old biases, getting clear on what you truly want, and showing up for yourself like the queen you are, you can create a midlife that feels more aligned, joyful, and fulfilling.
And if you’re ready to take manifesting to the next level, consider working with a life coach, joining a community of like-minded women, or simply gifting yourself the time and space to explore you.
Remember, midlife isn’t an end; it’s a new beginning. You’re writing the next chapter. Make it a bestseller.
