I used to think mirror work was just another self-help trick — until I used it to manifest my very first client in my business, more than $10,000 in one day, a sold-out international retreat, and four paid brand partnerships on my new YouTube channel. That's when I realized this practice isn't just powerful — it's life-changing.
How I Discovered Mirror Work
Mirror work was originally popularized by author and speaker Louise Hay in the 1980s. Hay introduced it as a healing tool in her book "You Can Heal Your Life" and shared that looking into your eyes in the mirror while speaking positive affirmations could shift limiting beliefs and transform your self-image in a powerful way.
Despite the hard days, I showed up, and I know that consistency made all the difference.
I first started practicing mirror work years ago, long before I ever thought about doing a 30-day challenge. At the time, I was struggling to sign my first high-ticket coaching client and was deep in self-doubt. That's when I decided to combine the practice of mirror work with the principles of manifestation: the belief that we have the power to create our own reality.
One day, I stood in front of the mirror, thanked myself for already signing that client, and celebrated as if it had happened. I jumped up and down in excitement, so much so that my husband walked by and looked at me like I was nuts. Less than two days later, the payment notification appeared on my phone screen. That was the first moment I realized just how powerful this practice could be.
Since then, I've used mirror work to manifest amazing opportunities and shift my self-image and confidence in ways that felt impossible before. I went from identifying as shy and introverted to becoming a global speaking coach, delivering talks in front of thousands of people. Anytime I have a negative or disempowering belief about myself, I get in front of the mirror and affirm what I choose to believe instead — "I am confident, my thoughts are of value, I am bold . . ."
But despite knowing its power, I had never committed to it consistently for an extended period. That's when I decided to take it to the next level with a 30-day mirror work challenge as part of my yearlong "Delulu Is the Solulu Experiment," where I decided to go all-in on being delusional about my goals this year. And guess what? It worked.
My 30-Day Mirror Work Challenge Experience
For 30 days, rain or shine, excited or exhausted, I stood in front of the mirror for 2-5 minutes each session and affirmed my dreams as if they were already real. Some days, it was easy — I felt confident and excited, completely embodying the energy of success. Other days? Not so much.
On those harder days, when I didn't feel abundant or powerful, I didn't force it. Instead, I zoomed out and went general, like:
- "My business is growing every day."
- "I am becoming more confident and aligned."
- "Opportunities are flowing to me."
Some days, I cried. Some days, I barely got through it. I didn't feel empowered; I felt fearful. I didn't feel clear and aligned; I felt confused and stuck. I would sit in front of the mirror and acknowledge what I was feeling — "I don't feel like doing this today . . ." — and then slowly speak life into why I was doing this. "But I'm here, because I know the power of my words, and I refuse to let a temporary emotion limit my potential." Despite the hard days, I showed up, and I know that consistency made all the difference.
Around Day 20, something clicked. I wasn't just saying affirmations anymore — I was feeling them. I looked into my own eyes and believed every word. I could see myself standing onstage, speaking to rooms full of people. I could feel the joy of my business growing with ease. I felt the certainty of financial abundance. Honestly, I didn't even need the mirror anymore.
And then, it started happening.
I began getting brand sponsorship emails out of nowhere. Three paid speaking opportunities arrived in my inbox. I had a $10,000 day in my business, something that would've once felt impossible. More than anything, I felt different. I was the version of me who had already manifested everything I desired.
How to Try Mirror Work for Yourself
If you want to experience this transformation, here's how to start:
- Get clear on what you want: Write down what you're manifesting. Be specific if you can fully believe it. If not, start general. For example, some days I would say, "Wow, my retreat in France sold out and it felt so easy! I'm so excited to support these 10 women." Other days, I would say something more general: "I'm so happy and grateful that unexpected opportunities are always on their way to me."
- Find a mirror and speak it into existence: Stand in front of your mirror, look yourself in the eye, and affirm your desires as if they're already true.
- Feel the feelings: Embody the excitement, joy, and gratitude you would feel if it had already happened. Move, dance, or jump if that helps!
- Meet yourself where you are: If being too specific triggers doubt, zoom out. Affirm the general direction of your growth.
- Stay consistent: Even if you don't feel like it, show up. The shift happens through the discomfort.
I went into this challenge expecting results, but I didn't expect to become someone new in the process. Mirror work didn't just help me manifest — it helped me remember my own power and trust my inner knowing.
If you're feeling stuck or uncertain about your goals, I'd love to invite you to try mirror work for 30 days. You might just surprise yourself with what (and who) you manifest along the way.
Natanya Bravo (she/her) is the founder of The Bravo Life, now a global community of over 30,000 women. Through digital education, coaching, and events, Natanya provides the tools, resources, and strategies for purpose-driven leaders to create and grow thriving businesses that serve others. As a transformational business and mindset coach, she inspires women to realize and actualize their full potential. Natanya is a PS Council member.