The Words That Create Worlds: Language, NLP, and Manifestation

Introduction: Speaking Your Reality into Being

Look around at your life for a moment. What if I told you that the words you think and speak every day are quietly writing the script of your reality? It might sound mystical, but consider this: every belief you hold, every action you take, began as a word in the mind. From ancient wisdom to modern neuroscience, there’s a growing understanding that language isn’t just a way to communicate – it’s a way to create. In Aramaic, abracadabra is said to mean “I create as I speak” (What does 'abracadabra' mean?). In other words, language is a creative force.

We’ve all experienced it: a kind word can uplift, and a harsh word can hurt deeply. But the power of language goes much further than emotions. Your words program your subconscious mind, the deep part of you that silently shapes your habits, feelings, and outcomes. Speak limitations, and life feels limited. Speak possibilities and abundance, and suddenly opportunities expand. This isn’t just New Age talk – even science is catching up. Researchers have found that simply reading positive words can boost your mood and lower anxiety (Words Can Change Your Brain). Certain uplifting words like “peace” and “love” might even influence your genes, lowering stress in the body (Words Can Change Your Brain). Amazing, right?

On a spiritual level, words carry vibration. You can think of each word as a tiny frequency you broadcast into the universe. Words are not just tools – they are frequencies. A thought or statement repeated often becomes like a mantra, tuning your mind (and according to some studies, even your DNA) to that frequency (Researchers Reveal How Our Words Can Physically Change our DNA) (Researchers Reveal How Our Words Can Physically Change our DNA). That’s why so many manifestation teachings, from the Law of Attraction to age-old prayers and mantras, emphasize spoken affirmations.

In this post, we’ll take a deep dive into the psychological, spiritual, and metaphysical importance of language in shaping reality – and how you can use this knowledge to reprogram your subconscious mind for manifestation. We’ll explore the world of NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) and learn from experts like Regan Hillyer on using language as a tool for transformation. You’ll discover practical “say this instead” examples to shift your everyday vocabulary toward abundance. We’ll also share real-life stories of people who literally spoke their dreams into existence. By the end, you’ll see that the old adage is true: words create worlds. Let’s begin the journey of using them wisely, compassionately, and powerfully to manifest the life you desire.

The Power of Language: How Words Shape Your Reality

Our journey starts with a fundamental truth: the language you use shapes how you experience life. Psychologists, spiritual teachers, and even quantum physicists echo this idea. Every time you describe something – whether out loud or in your thoughts – you’re not just labeling reality, you’re defining it and in doing so, potentially creating it. As the saying goes, “Words create worlds.”

Words and the Subconscious Mind – The Inner Creator

On a psychological level, words are the instructions you give to your subconscious mind. The subconscious doesn’t filter or judge – it simply absorbs and acts on the information it’s given, much like a powerful genie following your commands. Renowned mind expert Dr. Joseph Murphy once said: “The subconscious mind is ruled by suggestion, it accepts all suggestions – it does not argue with you – it fulfills your wishes.” (The Power of Your Subconscious Mind: 30 Best Quotes from the Book | by Aditya Jain | Medium). What does this mean? It means that whatever you consistently say to yourself, especially with feeling, your subconscious takes as truth and works to make it reality. If you constantly think “I’m not good enough” or joke “I always mess things up,” guess what – your subconscious believes it and steers you toward confirming those words. On the flip side, if you affirm “I am capable of great things” or “Everything is always working out for me,” your subconscious will just as readily accept those empowering ideas and seek to validate them.

Modern research shows just how real this effect is. Negative self-talk and pessimistic words can trigger stress responses in the brain, flooding you with cortisol and fear. Meanwhile, positive words can literally calm the nervous system and build resilience. In one study, just seeing a list of positive words helped anxious people feel better, while repeated use of positive language over time strengthened areas of the brain that promote optimism (Words Can Change Your Brain) (Words Can Change Your Brain). Our brains are continually eavesdropping on our self-talk. We truly wire ourselves with our words.

Now layer this with the Law of Attraction, the idea that like attracts like. Law of Attraction teachers often remind us that what you focus on expands. Words are one of the primary ways we focus. When you complain, “I have no money” or “Nothing ever works out,” you’re essentially placing an order for more of that experience, energetically aligning with lack. Conversely, when you speak of abundance and gratitude, you tune your energy to receive more of those good things. As Abraham Hicks (Esther Hicks) teaches: “You have to start telling the story of the way you want it to be, not of how it is.” (You have to start telling a different story | Abraham Hicks - YouTube) By telling a new story with your words – even if your current reality hasn’t caught up yet – you begin to shift your vibration and subconscious beliefs toward that new reality. Over time, internal reality becomes external reality.

Words as Energy – The Spiritual Dimension of Language

Beyond psychology, almost every spiritual tradition hints at the mystical power of the word. The Bible opens with, “In the beginning was the Word,” suggesting creation began with a sound or command. Eastern philosophies talk about mantras and sacred syllables (Om 🙏) that carry creative vibrations. And as we noted, abracadabra in ancient lore means to create as spoken. Words are literally vibrations – when spoken aloud, they are sound frequencies; when thought, they are electromagnetic patterns in the brain. Could it be that these vibrations influence the energy around us? Many mystics say yes.

In fascinating (though controversial) research from Russia, scientists found that human DNA might respond to language – that our genetic code has syntax and grammar like a language, and can be affected by words modulated on certain frequencie (Researchers Reveal How Our Words Can Physically Change our DNA) (Researchers Reveal How Our Words Can Physically Change our DNA)】. This was used to explain how affirmations and hypnosis can trigger physical healing. Consider the famous healer and author Louise Hay. She was diagnosed with cancer, but instead of conventional treatment she committed to an intensive routine of affirmations, visualization, and emotional healing, convinced that if she spoke wellness into her body, her cells would listen. Within six months, she was completely heale (About Louise Hay | Bio & Timeline of Achievements)】. Stories like this blur the line between “mind over matter” and magic – or perhaps reveal that mind is matter, just subtler.

At the very least, we know from everyday experience that words carry energy. Think of the last time someone sincerely told you “I believe in you.” It likely uplifted your spirit and gave you real confidence. Now think of a time someone insulted or criticized you – those words might have felt like a punch in the gut, right? We feel words because they have energetic weight. In fact, entrepreneur and manifestation coach Regan Hillyer often says that *“Words aren't just words; they're the spells you cast on your life.” (Mindvalley - Facebook)】. She means that each word can be seen as an incantation that summons an outcome. If you keep casting the same spell – whether “I am unlucky” or “I am blessed” – life tends to arrange itself accordingly.

The takeaway is a profound one: By choosing our words, we choose the lens through which our subconscious and the universe itself interprets our life. Words spoken with intention (what some call prayer or mantra or affirmation) have the power to bend reality. They set into motion the thoughts, emotions, and actions that make what we speak eventually manifest as our lived experience. In the next section, we’ll explore how this concept is applied in a practical system for personal change known as NLP.

NLP: Reprogramming Your Mind Through the Language of Change

How exactly can we harness the power of words to intentionally transform our lives? One powerful method comes from the field of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) – a blend of psychology and linguistics that emerged in the 1970s. NLP essentially asks, if our words and thoughts are programming our brain (neuro) all the time, why not program them to our advantage? It offers techniques to do just that, by changing language and mental imagery to shift our subconscious patterns.

What is NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming)?

In simple terms, NLP is the study of how language (linguistic) and communication affect our nervous system and behavior. The founders of NLP, Richard Bandler and John Grinder, modeled successful therapists and communicators to decode how their word choices and mental strategies led to breakthroughs. They discovered that by altering how we phrase things and the stories we tell ourselves, we can change our feelings and behaviors quickly.

Think of a common example: a person is terrified of public speaking. In their mind they might say, “Everyone will judge me, I’m going to bomb this speech.” An NLP approach would gently guide them to change that inner script – perhaps to visualize a supportive audience and affirm, “I have important words to share; people want me to succeed.” By reframing the language and mental picture, the person’s fear can give way to confidence. It’s not magic; it’s the power of shifting perception from within. As one NLP maxim puts it, “Change your words, change your world.”

World-renowned life coach Tony Robbins often uses a form of NLP in his trainings, especially something he calls “incantations.” These are like supercharged affirmations – positive phrases spoken with intense emotion and repetition (often while moving the body) to condition the mind for success. Robbins might take a phrase like “I am unstoppable” and have someone shout it while pumping their fists, over and over, until their physiology and mindset align with that belief. It may feel silly at first, but this kind of embodied language creates powerful neural associations. It’s NLP in action: using language and physiology to rewrite limiting beliefs into empowering ones.

NLP in Manifestation – Aligning Words with Your Vision

For those of us interested in manifestation and the Law of Attraction, NLP provides a toolkit to fast-track our inner transformation. Manifestation coach Regan Hillyer (a globally known expert in abundance mindset) is a big proponent of combining NLP with spiritual principles. She created what she calls the “Energetic Architecture” method, blending NLP, hypnosis and energy work. The result? A way to “bring the unconscious mind and energy into alignment” so that a person becomes “an energetic match for the goals they want to call into their lives (Regan Hillyer, The World’s #1 Manifestation Teacher, Shares 3 Simple Steps For Following Inner Guidance - LA Weekly)】. In essence, Hillyer helps her clients uncover their unconscious limiting words and stories, then systematically rewire them. *We can be controlled by our subconscious, or we can program it (Regan Hillyer, The World’s #1 Manifestation Teacher, Shares 3 Simple Steps For Following Inner Guidance - LA Weekly)】 – and conscious language is a major key to that programming.

Think about a common limiting story: “I never have enough money.” NLP would have us first become aware of this script, and then consciously choose new language to flip it. We might start telling ourselves a different story: “Money is flowing to me in increasing amounts” or “I am learning to manage and attract wealth.” Even if it feels not 100% true yet, by repeating it (with feeling) we are actively instructing the subconscious to find ways to make it true. Every time you catch the old phrase and replace it with the new one, you’re doing NLP – you’re using Neuro (mind) + Linguistic (language) to re-Program your response. Over time, this creates new neural pathways. Instead of automatically feeling lack when money is mentioned, your mind starts to feel possibility and resourcefulness.

NLP techniques can also help dissolve fears and doubts that block manifestation. For example, if you say an affirmation like “I am prosperous” and a little voice inside sneers, “Yeah right, who are you kidding?”, NLP offers tools like the “swish” technique to gently move that inner critic voice aside and amplify the positive voice. It’s all about using the right language, both verbal and mental, to shift those subconscious patterns. Countless people have reported sudden breakthroughs – from quitting lifelong phobias to skyrocketing their career – after just a session or two of reframing their inner dialogue with NLP methods. The common thread is that by changing the words and mental imagery in the mind, they changed their reality.

Hillyer’s approach, for instance, often involves having clients speak new empowering beliefs out loud, recording them, and listening daily (a form of self-hypnosis). She notes that as you flood your mind with high-vibration words, you start “resonating and vibing” with those words until your outside world reflects the (Regan Hillyer, The World’s #1 Manifestation Teacher, Shares 3 Simple Steps For Following Inner Guidance - LA Weekly)】. This is alignment: when your thoughts, words, and beliefs are congruent with the reality you want to manifest, that reality can’t help but show up.

In the next section, we’ll get very practical and look at how you can start doing this in your own life. You don’t need formal NLP training to begin speaking the language of manifestation. It can start with simple swaps in your daily vocabulary. Let’s explore some of those next.

Speak Your World into Existence: Conscious Language Practices

It’s time to put this knowledge into action. How do you consciously change your language to align with manifestation and abundance? The good news is, you can start with small tweaks that yield big results. By becoming aware of common phrases that diminish your power and replacing them with words that empower, you’ll immediately feel a shift in your mindset and energy.

From Limitation to Affirmation – “Say This, Not That”

One of the simplest exercises is the “say this, not that” practice. Below are examples of everyday phrases people often say (sometimes without even realizing it) and a more aligned alternative to use instead. Try these swaps and notice the difference in how you feel:

• Instead of: “I can’t afford this.”
  Say: “How can I afford this?” or “I choose to attract the money for this.”
  Why: The first phrasing cements lack. The second opens your mind to possibilities and solutions, signaling your subconscious to find creative ways to invite more wealth.
• Instead of: “I wish I could ___.”
  Say: “I am learning to ___.” or “I am going to ___.”
  Why: “I wish” implies it’s out of reach, whereas stating you are learning or going to do it affirms that it’s in progress. It shifts you from passive wishing to active intention.
• Instead of: “I’m always so unlucky” or “Nothing ever works out for me.”
  Say: “I am fortunate in many ways, and things are getting better and better.”
  Why: The “unlucky” story is a classic self-fulfilling prophecy. By affirming improvement, you start to notice the good breaks (which were likely there but overlooked) and attract more positive outcomes by virtue of a hopeful mindset.
• Instead of: “I have to ___ (deal with something).”
  Say: “I get to ___.”
  Why: This might seem small, but “have to” feels like obligation, whereas “get to” feels like opportunity. For example, “I have to go to work” versus “I get to go to work” – the latter is an expression of gratitude (for having a job, for instance) and will lighten your energy. The task becomes a choice, not a chore.
• Instead of: “I’m not good enough to do that.”
  Say: “I am growing into the person who can do that,” or simply “I am enough, and I can handle the challenge.”
  Why: The first is a fixed mindset that shuts down growth. The rephrasing acknowledges you are capable and in the process of expanding your skills. It’s supportive rather than discouraging.
• Instead of: “This is hard/impossible.”
  Say: “This is a challenge I will figure out,” or “This is an exciting opportunity to learn.”
  Why: Labeling something “hard” makes your brain want to give up. Calling it a challenge or opportunity keeps you engaged and confident that a solution exists.

Notice a pattern: the replacement phrases don’t deny reality, but they do frame it in a more empowering light. You’re not sticking your head in the sand; you’re choosing to see potential and maintain a positive expectation. Over time, these small linguistic shifts radically recondition your mindset. As Dr. Joseph Murphy advised, *“Never finish a negative statement; reverse it immediately, and wonders will happen in your life.” (The Power of Your Subconscious Mind: 30 Best Quotes from the Book | by Aditya Jain | Medium)】. In practice, that might look like catching yourself mid-sentence – “I’m so stu—...actually, I’m learning new things, it’s okay to not know everything.” This conscious correction, again and again, trains your subconscious to focus on progress instead of problems.

Another tip is to speak in the present tense about your goals, as if they’re already happening or inevitable. For example, if you want a loving relationship, saying “I will find love someday” keeps it in the indefinite future. Instead, try “I am attracting a loving, supportive partner” – this way your mind starts to behave as if that partner is already en route (which aligns your actions and vibe to make it reality). Many manifestation experts suggest phrasing intentions as “I am” or “I have” statements for this reason. It’s a form of self-induced belief. When you consistently affirm “I am healthy, wealthy, and wise,” you start to feel and act in healthier, wealthier, wiser ways, even subconsciously.

The Language of Abundance and Gratitude

In shifting your words, also consider integrating the language of gratitude and abundance into your daily life. Instead of focusing on what’s lacking, make it a habit to speak about what you appreciate. For instance, adding phrases like “I’m so thankful for ___” or “I love how ___ is happening” when you talk about your day. This not only feels good, but it aligns with the Law of Attraction principle that gratitude attracts more things to be grateful for. It’s hard for fear and scarcity to take hold in a mind that’s consistently counting blessings and expecting good.

Even when challenges arise, you can acknowledge them in a constructive way. Rather than saying “I’m broke,” acknowledge the situation but pivot: “Okay, my bank account is low right now, and I am ready for it to grow. I welcome new income opportunities.” Do you feel the difference? You’re being honest but also optimistic and forward-looking. This keeps your frequency tuned to solutions and abundance.

Lastly, speak kindly about yourself and others. Words spoken about others also reflect back on our own psyche. Gossip or constant criticism (even in thought) tends to breed more of the same negative energy. Choosing compassionate words, giving compliments, and using positive descriptions nurtures a field of positive energy around you. This doesn’t mean ignoring injustices or never speaking up when something’s wrong; it means even in those cases, choose words that seek improvement or understanding rather than just venting negativity. As an experiment, try going 24 hours without complaining at all. Instead, consciously rephrase any complaint into a constructive comment or solution. You’ll become incredibly aware of how often our default language leans to the negative – and how powerful it is to redirect it.

By now, you might be thinking of times you’ve spoken yourself into a bad mood or a good mood. It’s empowering to realize you can guide that process deliberately. Next, let’s look at a few real-life stories of people who transformed their reality by transforming their language. These examples will show that this isn’t just theory – it truly works when applied consistently.

Real-Life Transformations: Words in Action

Nothing drives a point home like a real story. Here are a few inspiring examples of individuals who proved that changing your words can change your world:

• Louise Hay – Healing Through Affirmations: We touched on Louise’s story earlier, but it’s worth revisiting as a case study in the power of conscious language. Louise Hay was in her fifties when she was diagnosed with what was deemed “incurable” cancer. Instead of resigning to it, she dove into healing her life from the inside out. She had a rough past of abuse and trauma, and she suspected that years of self-loathing and unaddressed anger had contributed to her illness. Louise began using affirmations – simple positive statements – every single day, especially while looking in the mirror (a practice she later taught to millions). She would say things like “I love and approve of myself” and “Every cell in my body is filled with healing light.” Along with visualizations and forgiveness work, she effectively reprogrammed her subconscious mind to support health. Within six months, medical tests revealed she was completely heale (About Louise Hay | Bio & Timeline of Achievements)】. Doctors were stunned. Louise went on to live into her 90s, spreading the message that “Every thought we think is creating our future.” Her life is a testament that even our bodies respond to the words we speak and believe.
• Muhammad Ali – The Champ Who Spoke Greatness: Muhammad Ali, the legendary boxing champion, was not shy about the power of words. Early in his career, before the world knew his name, he boldly declared, “I am the greatest.” In fact, he famously said, *“I am the greatest, I said that even before I knew I was. I figured that if I said it enough, I would convince the world that I was really the greatest.” (Muhammad Ali's 10 best quotes - ESPN)】. This wasn’t just ego or bluster; it was a conscious creation. By repeatedly affirming that identity, Ali ingrained unshakable confidence in his subconscious. He literally talked himself into becoming one of the greatest athletes ever. His words also influenced those around him – opponents, fans, and media – to believe in his prowess. Ali’s story shows how speaking positive, powerful words about yourself (even if they’re aspirational) can manifest as reality when backed by commitment. He became what he proclaimed, and he credited that mental declaration as a crucial part of his success.
• Hector Jesus Arencibia – From $682 to $1,000,000: Closer to home here at The Universe Unveiled, our founder Hector J. Arencibia has his own manifesting-through-language story. In one of his podcast episodes, he shares how he went from having just *$682 in his bank account to achieving $1,000,000 in 18 months (How to Manifest When You're Feeling Low by The Universe Unveiled)】. How? By radically shifting his mindset and the words he spoke over his life. Instead of saying “I’m broke” or lamenting his struggles (which he admittedly did at first), he decided to start speaking abundance and faith into every day. He used affirmations and spoken intentions religiously – things like “I am worthy of wealth,” “Opportunities are everywhere,” and “I am a magnet for money.” He also practiced gratitude for even the smallest dollar. Bit by bit, those words reprogrammed his subconscious from one of scarcity and desperation to one of determination and prosperity consciousness. New business ideas and partnerships flowed in, which he attributes to that internal shift. Hector’s journey underlines that manifestation isn’t overnight magic, but a cumulative effect of persistent positive language and belief. Every “spell” of wealth he cast with his words paved the way for real financial growth. Now he helps thousands with the same principles.
• Everyday People, Everyday Miracles: Beyond famous names, consider the everyday examples. Perhaps you know someone who always spoke about being healthy and rarely fell ill. Or the friend who started calling themselves a “lucky person” and suddenly began winning random prizes or meeting helpful people at the right time. There are also those who have overcome personal challenges by changing their language – for instance, a shy individual who stopped labeling themselves “shy” and started saying “I’m learning to be more confident.” Over time, they found themselves socializing with ease. Case after case shows that when people change what they say about themselves, their circumstances eventually follow suit.

These stories all carry a common lesson: words, backed by belief and action, are incredibly powerful. When you align your language with your desired reality, you align your mind, energy, and behaviors with it too – and that is the recipe for manifestation. It’s not that saying “I am wealthy” will make a suitcase of cash drop in your lap overnight. It’s that by saying “I am wealthy (or I am becoming wealthy)” consistently, you start to think and act in wealthy ways: you spot opportunities, you feel deserving of prosperity, you network confidently... and thus you create wealth. Words are often the starting point of that chain reaction.

Conclusion: Your Words Are Your Wand (Use Them Wisely)

In the realms of psychology, spirituality, and metaphysics alike, we arrive at a profound realization: the words you choose are architects of your reality. They carry the power to uplift or undermine, to open doors or close them. Each word is like a tiny seed – plant words of love, confidence, and abundance, and watch those qualities bloom in your life. Plant words of fear, lack, and cynicism, and you may find those weeds cropping up everywhere.

The takeaway is an empowering one: You are the author of your life’s story, and words are your toolset. By speaking with intention, you’re effectively scripting the movie in which you live. If a line of the script doesn’t serve you, remember that you can rewrite it at any time. In fact, you can begin right now. What is a sentence you often catch yourself saying that might be holding you back? How can you rephrase it to be more empowering? Start practicing that, and you’ll be stepping into the role of conscious creator of your world.

Keep in mind, this is a compassionate process. It’s not about blaming yourself for every negative thing that’s happened (“Oh no, did I speak that into being?”). Life is complex and many factors are at play. Rather, it’s about recognizing that moving forward, you have a say in the narrative. When you slip up and speak negatively, as we all do, simply notice it without judgment and choose a better thought next time. Consistency is key – the more you speak in alignment with what you want, the stronger the new patterns become.

Words are frequencies, and when you consistently broadcast high-frequency signals (like love, gratitude, prosperity), you resonate with experiences of that caliber. It might feel a bit mystical, but even at a very practical level, the words you speak determine the mindset you carry, and your mindset determines how you act. Those actions then sculpt the life around you. It all begins with a word – so choose and speak your words with the same care an artist chooses colors to paint a masterpiece.

As you venture on using language to manifest your dreams, remember you’re not alone. Many have walked this path and left wisdom for us to borrow. Fill your mind with positive affirmations, read books or listen to teachers who inspire you (people like Regan Hillyer, Louise Hay, Dr. Joseph Murphy, Neville Goddard, and more). Surround yourself with those who speak to your highest potential. And most importantly, speak to yourself as you would to someone you deeply love – with encouragement, belief, and kindness. This vibration will echo out into every area of your life.

Now, having equipped yourself with this knowledge, what new world will you begin to speak into existence? The canvas of tomorrow is blank, and your words are the paint. Start casting your spells of intention, and watch the magic that unfolds.

(Ready to amplify your manifestation journey? Discover tools, books, and resources to help reprogram your mind and elevate your vibration in our Manifestation Shop. Empower yourself with the knowledge that your words create your world – so speak something beautiful into being!)