If you can create circumstances without consciously intending to do so, think how much more successful you'll be if you really put your mind to it. With enough willpower and passion, you can achieve almost anything you can imagine.

Everything in the world started out as a thought in someone's mind. Before a building can take form, an architect must envision it. The same is true in magic. Before you can get the job you want or the relationship you desire, you must be able to imagine having it. It's not necessary to envision every step along the way or decide exactly how all the events leading up to the outcome will unfold, but you must clearly see the end result.

In fact, seeing from the end is essential. Don't get discouraged if, in the course of moving toward your goal, you appear to hit a snag or matters don't seem to be progressing the way you'd expected. Hold firmly to your vision of the outcome you desire, and trust that it will manifest.

As a magician, one of the first tasks you need to master is disciplining your mind. Instead of letting your mind run amuck, start paying attention to your thoughts. Eliminate the ones that run contrary to your desires or that undermine your confidence. A magician never puts her mind on something she doesn't want to happen. As soon as you notice yourself thinking something negative or self-limiting, stop yourself and mentally X-out the thought. Then immediately replace it with a positive one.

Defining and Asking for What You Want

This sounds easy, but for many people it's not. They may know what they want right this instant, but they don't have a clue about the bigger picture. They're focused on the trees and can't see the forest.

As an example, let's say you've had several bad relationships. Before you start looking for a new romance, make a list of the qualities you seek in a partner. The act of writing the list prompts you to really think about what you want, to put energy and intent behind your objective. In a sense, the list becomes your spell. You direct your mind to consciously create the circumstances you desire: to find a partner who's right for you.

Take your time, be honest, and make sure to include everything that's important to you. Be very clear and specific when asking for what you want. Remember the old saying, “Be careful what you wish for.” Ambiguous statements tend to yield confusing and sometimes unwanted results.

Letting Go

Once you've determined what you seek and can clearly visualize the desired outcome, let it go. Don't second-guess yourself or wonder if you'll be successful. And don't keep changing your mind. If you went to a restaurant for dinner and gave the waiter your order, then a minute later called him back and changed your order, then a minute later changed your mind again, you'd never get anything to eat.

The same is true with magic. One of the biggest problems many people have is that they get in their own way. Do it right the first time, and then give the universe a chance to manifest your intention.