How I Manifested My Dream Job
And you can too! (Free Notion template included!)
The idea of manifesting often weirds people out. It sounds too "woo-woo" for logical thinkers, but I promise you it really isn’t.
If you’re unfamiliar, manifestation is the idea that you can achieve anything you want by believing it into existence! You know, turning your thoughts into reality. While this might sound a little out there and unrealistic, it’s actually more science-based than you may realize. Although I’m no expert (but if you’re curious to learn more, there are lots of people out there who are more knowledgeable!), let’s break it down, at least in the way I understand it.
The Science Behind Manifestation
From a scientific perspective, manifestation can be linked to neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to rewire itself by forming new neural connections throughout your life. Our brains are constantly forming new neural connections based on our thoughts, experiences, and behaviours.
For example, if you've had a series of bad dating experiences, you might form the belief that all dates will go badly. Which, if you’re looking for a meaningful relationship, that belief will only hold you back from actually meeting your person. The good news is you can reprogram not only your conscious mind, but also your subconscious mind, to think differently.
And that’s where the magic lies.
By focusing on positive affirmations, clear goals, and unwavering belief in your potential, you train your brain to form new pathways—ones that support confidence and possibility instead of fear and doubt. When you truly believe something is possible, you take the necessary steps to make it happen.
So how does this relate to me finding my dream job? Well, I manifested it. And here’s how.
My Career Manifestation Journey
Last year I wrote about wanting to manifest my dream life. I had read a ton of books and even completed a few courses on manifesting, and through that was able to manifest my dream partner in the summer of 2023. Without putting too much time or effort in, it felt like once I started the work, my now boyfriend just showed up in my life, meeting every item on my list.
I decided I could easily do the same for my career, but things weren’t moving as quickly. Apparently the universe had other plans for me.
Hitting Rock Bottom
In 2021, I hit a low point. I was burnt out and depressed, and then around the same time, laid off from my corporate communications job. Even though the layoff was expected, since it was a contract position, the idea of finding a new job was too much. I felt completely lost, unsure of my next step. But instead of jumping into another job, I applied for employment insurance to gave myself the time and space to heal.
This decision led me down a path I didn’t expect but needed (although I didn’t realize it at the time). I wrote about that experience here, if you’re curious.
I wasn’t sure if I wanted to return to communications. My last role had left me with so much anxiety and self-doubt, and I was scared I’d end up in another work environment that wasn’t right for me. But eventually, I ran out of money and had no choice but to start looking for work. It only made sense to return to the career I spent years studying and gaining experience in and at one point was very passionate about.
Having already manifested my partner, I believed I could apply the same practices to manifest my dream job. What I didn’t expect was just how much anxiety, fear, doubt, and other limiting beliefs I had around work, success, and financial stability.
Facing Obstacles and Tests from the Universe
I spent months applying to hundreds of jobs and going on dozens of interviews. Most positions paid far less than I knew I deserved and needed to live comfortably, but the longer I was unemployed, the more desperate I became. None of them met the vision I had for my dream job and barely checked off any of my manifestation list. I started to wonder if it was even possible—especially with such a big gap in my resume.
This was my first test.
At this point, I was feeling incredibly discouraged, but I had learned the universe loves to test us! When you’re close to achieving a manifestation, obstacles will almost always arise to see if you truly believe in yourself and will keep pushing forward.
I experienced this when dating—meeting people who weren’t right for me but felt "good enough" or people from my past popping up and asking for second chances. The same thing happened with job hunting. One position, a high-paying corporate communications role, seemed promising; I made it through three interviews! The hiring manager was great, but the job required full-time, in-person work with a long commute, and the person I’d be working closely with gave me bad vibes.
I was told the job was mine if I submitted a writing sample on time. Deep down, I knew it wasn’t right, but at the same time felt like I’d be insane to turn it down. So, instead of forcing myself to say yes, I submitted the sample late (on purpose), removing the decision from my hands.
I needed to trust that something better was coming.
Bridging the Gap
Shortly after, I found a part-time communications job at a non-profit. The pay was much lower than what I had on my manifestation list, but something told me it was the right move. I applied, interviewed, and got the job.
Looking back, this role was exactly what I needed. The easy hours, empathetic management, and work-from-home policy helped me rebuild my confidence in a workplace setting. I thought I was ready for a demanding job, but what I really needed was a gentle transition back into the workforce.
I worked there from February to November in 2024, slowly regaining my self-trust. For months, I didn’t even look for another job, even when people told me I should and knowing I needed better pay. I was struggling financially, but I just wasn’t ready yet.
Instead, I focused on doing the inner work—therapy, journaling, reading manifestation success stories, and working through my limiting beliefs.
By the end of summer, I knew I was ready for something bigger.
Then My Dream Job Appeared
In early fall of 2024, I started job searching again—but this time, I did things differently.
Instead of applying to absolutely anything and everything I felt qualified for, I only applied to jobs that genuinely intrigued me. Over a month, I applied to just three jobs—and got interviews for all of them.
A non-profit helping women in need – The pay was the minimum of what I wanted, but the commute was 50 minutes, and the hybrid flexibility wasn’t ideal. I didn’t get the job.
A corporate communications role at a well-known company – A friend referred me, the pay was good, and it was hybrid. However, it was a temporary contract, the commute was more than half hour, and the work itself didn’t spark passion. I didn’t get the job.
My Dream Job – A local organization I love. The salary exceeded my expectations, the work sounded exciting and meaningful, the benefits were excellent, and the head office was less than 10 minutes from my house.
I got the job!
Now, after three months in this role, I keep discovering new things I love about it—from the amazing people I work with to the flexible schedule that allows me to actually have a life outside of work.
How You Can Manifest Your Dream Job
If you’re struggling to find the right job, here’s what I’ve learned:
Get Clear on What You Want – Write a list of non-negotiables. What salary do you need? What type of work excites you? What work-life balance do you desire? Get detailed and write it all down!
Identify Your Limiting Beliefs – Do you secretly believe you’re unqualified? That good jobs are impossible to find? That you have to struggle? Challenge these thoughts over and over again until you start to believe otherwise.
Do the Inner Work – Journal, go to therapy, practice affirmations, and seek out success stories. Strengthen your belief in yourself!
Trust the Timing – If something feels off, don’t settle. At the same time, temporary "stepping stone" jobs are okay if they help you bridge the gap. Even still, a temporary job should still feel good and help you meet your needs while you continue to work on yourself.
Take Aligned Action – If you’re okay financially, whether in a temporary “stepping stone” job, getting support from somewhere else, or living off savings, only apply for jobs that truly excite you. Confidence and belief will make you a stronger candidate.
Finding a job is incredibly hard these days, especially one at a company that values you and pays you fairly. If you’re looking for your dream job and having a hard time, I encourage you to look inward and reflect on what’s holding you back. Start working through those doubts, and I know you’ll land your dream job when the timing is right.
If you’re curious about manifesting, I created a FREE Notion template - Manifesting Magic Tracker. Feel free to download it, try it out, and let me know what you think!
Love,
Cole