In the world of manifesting desires and creating our own reality, the Law of Assumption emerges as one of the most compelling principles. Coined by Neville Goddard, a pioneer in metaphysical philosophy, this concept asserts that our assumptions—our deeply held beliefs about ourselves and the world—play a pivotal role in shaping our experiences and ultimately determining the reality we inhabit.
Goddard’s teachings suggest that by assuming the feeling of a desired state as if it has already occurred, we set in motion the conditions that align our external reality with that internal belief. This idea resonates deeply with both ancient wisdom and contemporary psychological theories, positioning the Law of Assumption as a bridge between metaphysics and neuroscience.
In this article, we will dive into the science behind the Law of Assumption, shedding light on how the brain processes assumptions and how these seemingly abstract notions produce measurable effects on our daily lives and overall trajectory.
The Foundation of the Law of Assumption
Neville Goddard’s teachings on the Law of Assumption are grounded in a profound yet simple principle: the idea that our assumptions—whether we are consciously aware of them or not—serve as the blueprint for our reality. Goddard famously stated, “Your assumptions, conscious or unconscious, direct all thought and action to their fulfillment.” This quote encapsulates the essence of the Law of Assumption, emphasizing that our internal beliefs shape the external world we experience.
At its core, the Law of Assumption asserts that the mind’s ability to assume a state of being is the first step toward manifesting that state in physical reality. Assumptions influence not only how we perceive the world but also how we interact with it. They act as an unseen force that directs our thoughts, decisions, and behaviors in alignment with our inner convictions, whether positive or negative. By changing these assumptions, we can essentially rewrite the script of our lives.
Recent studies in cognitive science support this concept, particularly in the realm of self-efficacy—the belief in one’s ability to achieve goals. Research published in Psychological Science in 2022 found that individuals who held strong beliefs in their competence were more likely to persist in challenging tasks, ultimately achieving better outcomes. This aligns with Goddard’s principle that what we assume to be true about ourselves creates the framework for our actions and results.
Assumptions and the Subconscious Mind
Goddard’s focus on the subconscious mind as the engine of the Law of Assumption further highlights the importance of internal beliefs. The subconscious does not differentiate between reality and imagination; it accepts the assumptions we feed it as truth. Over time, these assumptions solidify, forming habits of thought that dictate how we react to situations and what opportunities we notice or overlook.
From a psychological perspective, this process ties closely to the concept of automaticity—the subconscious processing of information that governs much of our daily behavior. A study in the Journal of Experimental Psychology (2023) found that subconscious beliefs significantly influence decision-making and emotional responses, often without our conscious awareness. This underscores the need to consciously curate our assumptions, as they ultimately determine our trajectory in life.
Shaping Reality Through Assumptions
One of the most compelling aspects of the Law of Assumption is its assertion that changing internal beliefs can lead to tangible changes in external circumstances. For instance, assuming a state of abundance—thinking, feeling, and acting as though financial success is already achieved—can activate a mental framework that attracts opportunities, guides decision-making, and inspires persistence. This process is supported by findings in neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to form new neural connections. By repeatedly affirming and visualizing desired outcomes, we can rewire the brain to align with those goals.
A 2023 study published in Nature Communications demonstrated that individuals who practiced positive visualization techniques experienced measurable changes in their neural activity. Brain scans revealed increased activity in regions associated with motivation and reward, suggesting that these practices can create a mindset conducive to achieving desired outcomes.
Expanding Goddard’s Teachings with Modern Insights
While Goddard’s teachings originated in the mid-20th century, advancements in neuroscience and psychology continue to validate and expand upon his ideas. For instance, the concept of embodied cognition—the theory that the mind and body work in tandem to shape perception—offers a modern lens through which to view the Law of Assumption. Embodying a state of confidence or success through posture, tone, and physical actions reinforces the mental assumption of those traits, creating a feedback loop that amplifies their effects.
Moreover, emerging research on quantum theory has introduced the idea that consciousness plays a role in shaping reality at the subatomic level. While still speculative, some studies suggest that focused intention and observation could influence the probabilities of certain outcomes, echoing Goddard’s idea that our inner assumptions manifest externally.
The Science of Assumptions: How the Brain Processes Beliefs
At the core of the Law of Assumption lies the brain’s reticular activating system (RAS), a network responsible for filtering information and prioritizing what we focus on. When we hold a strong assumption, the RAS adjusts our perception of the world to align with that belief. This filtering mechanism ensures that we notice opportunities, people, and circumstances that match our assumptions while disregarding conflicting information.
Neuroscientific research supports this. Studies on cognitive biases show how our brain seeks consistency between our internal beliefs and external reality, a phenomenon known as confirmation bias. For example, if we assume we are successful, our brain will naturally highlight evidence supporting that belief, reinforcing a positive feedback loop.
Moreover, the concept of neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections—plays a vital role. When we repeatedly think and feel as though our assumption is true, we strengthen specific neural pathways associated with that belief. Over time, this rewiring makes the assumption feel more natural and engrained, making it easier to act and make decisions aligned with the desired reality.
Expanding Awareness: How Assumptions Influence Behavior
Assumptions influence not only how we perceive the world but also how we behave. This is evident in psychological theories like self-fulfilling prophecies, where a belief about a potential outcome influences actions that lead to the very outcome being assumed. For instance, someone who assumes they are confident may unconsciously adopt body language, tone, and behavior that align with confidence, leading to positive interactions that reinforce the assumption.
Research in positive psychology highlights the power of adopting empowering beliefs. A 2022 study published in the Journal of Behavioral Neuroscience found that individuals who practiced self-affirmation exercises—akin to assuming positive outcomes—experienced reduced stress levels and improved problem-solving skills. This demonstrates that shifting assumptions can tangibly enhance well-being and performance.
Additionally, assumptions influence emotional states, which act as magnets for corresponding experiences. When we assume a state of gratitude or joy, for example, we release dopamine and serotonin, neurotransmitters linked to happiness and reward. These biochemical changes not only improve mood but also increase resilience, making it easier to sustain the assumptions even in challenging situations.
Current Insights into the Law of Assumption
Recent advancements in neuroscience offer further validation for the principles underlying the Law of Assumption. Research on mental rehearsal, commonly used by elite athletes and performers, shows that visualizing a desired outcome as though it has already happened activates the same brain regions as physically experiencing the event. This suggests that the brain cannot fully differentiate between real and vividly imagined scenarios, providing a scientific basis for “assuming the feeling of the wish fulfilled.”
A groundbreaking 2023 study in Nature Human Behaviour examined how belief systems shape decision-making. Participants with strong positive assumptions about their abilities exhibited greater persistence in problem-solving tasks, even after repeated failures. This aligns with the idea that assumptions act as internal motivators, guiding actions and fostering resilience.
The connection between assumptions and quantum theory has also gained attention. While still a debated area, proponents suggest that our thoughts and beliefs influence the quantum field, subtly shaping potential realities into tangible outcomes. Though this concept remains speculative, it highlights the intriguing intersection between ancient wisdom and cutting-edge science.
Neuroplasticity and Assumptions
Understanding the Law of Assumption requires a deeper exploration of neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to rewire itself by forming new neural pathways. This remarkable capacity highlights the brain’s dynamic nature, continually adapting to our experiences, thoughts, and behaviors. Neuroplasticity offers a scientific foundation for Neville Goddard’s assertion that assumptions—whether positive or negative—directly shape our reality.
When we make assumptions, the brain’s neural pathways respond by reinforcing these beliefs. Dr. Michael Merzenich, a leading neuroscientist often referred to as the “father of neuroplasticity,” explains this phenomenon succinctly: “Neurons that fire together wire together.” In essence, the brain strengthens the connections between neurons that are repeatedly activated, embedding those patterns into the subconscious. These neural circuits then influence how we perceive, interpret, and interact with the world around us.
How Assumptions Shape Neural Connections
In the context of the Law of Assumption, the brain’s adaptability means that our recurring thoughts and assumptions serve as instructions for rewiring neural pathways. Positive assumptions, such as believing in one’s success or abundance, prompt the brain to build connections that align with those beliefs. This makes it easier to notice opportunities, take productive actions, and maintain a resilient mindset. Conversely, negative assumptions can solidify patterns of doubt and fear, creating a mental framework that perpetuates challenges and limits growth.
Recent studies in cognitive neuroscience bolster this understanding. A 2022 study published in Nature Reviews Neuroscience found that repetitive positive affirmations and visualizations led to measurable changes in brain activity. Specifically, participants exhibited heightened connectivity in regions associated with motivation, reward processing, and resilience, further validating the idea that focusing on positive assumptions can rewire the brain for success.
The Role of Emotional Engagement in Neuroplasticity
One critical factor in leveraging neuroplasticity to reshape assumptions is emotional engagement. The brain responds more powerfully to thoughts and experiences that are accompanied by strong emotions. For example, vividly imagining a successful outcome while feeling excitement or gratitude activates the limbic system, particularly the amygdala and hippocampus, which play key roles in encoding these experiences into long-term memory.
Dr. Joe Dispenza, a researcher in neuroscience and meditation, emphasizes this connection between emotion and neuroplasticity. He explains that when we repeatedly pair positive thoughts with elevated emotions, the brain becomes more adept at reproducing these states, making the desired outcomes feel not only possible but inevitable. This process strengthens the neural circuits associated with those positive assumptions, integrating them more deeply into the subconscious.
Practical Application: Rewiring Through Assumptions
Applying neuroplasticity to the Law of Assumption involves deliberately cultivating positive thoughts and beliefs while minimizing negative ones. One effective method is visualization, where individuals imagine their desired reality in vivid detail. This practice not only engages the imagination but also reinforces neural connections related to those assumptions, making them more dominant over time.
For example, a person aspiring to financial success might visualize themselves confidently closing business deals, feeling the satisfaction of achieving goals, and experiencing the security of financial abundance. By consistently engaging in this mental exercise, they train their brain to align with these assumptions, fostering behaviors and attitudes that support their manifestation.
Expanding Neuroplasticity with Modern Insights
Recent advancements in brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) have shed light on how neuroplasticity can be harnessed to reframe assumptions more effectively. Studies involving real-time feedback on brain activity show that individuals can consciously adjust their thought patterns to achieve desired mental states. This technology opens new avenues for applying the principles of the Law of Assumption, providing tools to enhance the brain’s rewiring process.
Additionally, research in meditation and mindfulness has revealed their profound effects on neuroplasticity. A 2023 study in The Journal of Cognitive Enhancement found that just 10 minutes of daily mindfulness practice significantly increased gray matter density in brain regions associated with emotional regulation and self-awareness. This suggests that combining mindfulness with deliberate positive assumptions could amplify the brain’s ability to rewire for success.
The Importance of Consistency in Rewiring
Neuroplasticity thrives on consistency and repetition. Just as negative thought patterns can become entrenched through habitual focus, positive assumptions require sustained attention to become dominant. Creating daily rituals, such as journaling affirmations or meditating on positive outcomes, ensures that the brain continues to strengthen the desired neural connections.
In conclusion, the synergy between neuroplasticity and the Law of Assumption offers a powerful framework for personal transformation. By consciously shaping assumptions and engaging in practices that reinforce them, individuals can harness their brain’s adaptability to align their reality with their deepest desires. As modern neuroscience continues to uncover new insights, the potential to rewire the brain for success becomes an increasingly attainable and evidence-backed endeavor.
The Quantum Connection
Neville Goddard’s teachings often intersected with concepts from quantum physics, proposing that our assumptions operate on a quantum level. Central to quantum theory is the idea that the observer influences the outcome of an experiment—a phenomenon known as the observer effect. This principle suggests a deep interplay between consciousness and reality, resonating with Goddard’s assertion that our assumptions shape the world around us.
Goddard encouraged his followers to “assume the feeling of your wish fulfilled,” emphasizing the transformative power of focused intention. When we align our thoughts and emotions with a desired outcome, we shift our perception and interaction with the world. This shift creates what quantum physicists might describe as a ripple effect in the quantum fabric of reality, influencing possibilities and probabilities.
Modern research in quantum mechanics provides additional insight. Studies on quantum entanglement, where particles remain connected across vast distances, hint at the interconnectedness of all things. This mirrors Goddard’s suggestion that our internal states can influence external events, demonstrating how deeply entwined our consciousness is with the reality we experience.
Expanding the Quantum Perspective
Beyond metaphors, the quantum model of reality encourages a mindset of intentionality. By consciously directing our focus and energy, we engage in a form of “quantum co-creation,” aligning our internal world with external outcomes. A 2021 study in Frontiers in Psychology explored the intersection of quantum theory and human cognition, emphasizing how focused mental states could potentially influence complex systems in the environment.
For example, visualizing a goal while maintaining a calm, expectant mindset aligns with Goddard’s advice. The act of vividly imagining success activates both quantum principles and the subconscious mind, reinforcing neural patterns that support the manifestation process. This interplay between quantum physics and psychology offers a compelling framework for understanding the Law of Assumption.
The Role of Emotions in Assumption
Emotions play an essential role in the Law of Assumption, acting as the fuel that powers the manifestation process. Goddard highlighted the importance of feeling as though the desired reality is already true. This emotional resonance not only reinforces neural pathways but also signals the subconscious mind to prioritize the assumed reality as significant.
The brain’s limbic system, particularly the amygdala and hippocampus, governs emotional processing. When we pair vivid imagery with strong positive emotions, these regions activate, encoding the experience into memory and strengthening neural connections. Neuroscientific studies, such as a 2022 publication in The Journal of Neuroscience, reveal that emotionally charged experiences are more likely to be retained and acted upon, supporting Goddard’s emphasis on “feeling the wish fulfilled.”
Emotional Amplification and Neurochemistry
Heightened emotional states also trigger the release of dopamine and serotonin, neurochemicals associated with motivation, reward, and well-being. By evoking positive emotions, such as joy or gratitude, while imagining a fulfilled desire, we create a feedback loop that reinforces the assumed reality. This process increases focus and resilience, enabling individuals to persist in their intentions despite external challenges.
Moreover, emotions like gratitude create an open and receptive mental state. Gratitude practices, often recommended in conjunction with manifestation techniques, have been shown to reduce stress and enhance optimism. This aligns with Goddard’s teachings, emphasizing that emotional harmony is a cornerstone of successful assumption.
Applying the Law of Assumption in Daily Life
Understanding the Law of Assumption is only beneficial when it becomes a practical tool for transformation. Goddard urged individuals to harness their imagination and actively shape their realities. Here are steps to integrate this principle into daily life:
1. Be Consciously Aware
Awareness is the first step to transformation. Begin by examining your recurring thoughts and assumptions. Are they empowering or limiting? For example, if you often assume failure, challenge this belief and replace it with a more constructive narrative.
2. Choose Empowering Assumptions
Deliberately adopt assumptions that align with your goals and aspirations. For instance, instead of thinking, “I never succeed at this,” replace it with, “Success comes naturally to me with persistence.” By repeating these empowering beliefs, you condition your mind to align with them.
3. Feel the Reality
Engage your emotions deeply by imagining how achieving your goal feels. Close your eyes and picture the details: the sights, sounds, and sensations of success. The more vividly you feel the experience, the stronger the signal to your subconscious mind.
4. Practice Consistency
Reinforce positive assumptions daily through visualization, affirmations, or journaling. Consistency is key to embedding these beliefs into your subconscious and activating the neuroplastic changes that support them.
Expanding Practical Applications
Incorporating the Law of Assumption into your routine can also involve mindfulness practices and behavioral experiments. For example, maintaining a gratitude journal or meditating on your desired state creates mental space for assumptions to take root. Additionally, testing small-scale assumptions—like believing you’ll have a productive day—provides immediate feedback, reinforcing confidence in the process.
Recent advancements in biofeedback technology allow individuals to monitor their emotional and cognitive states in real-time. Devices that track heart rate variability or brainwave activity can help users cultivate the emotional and mental alignment necessary for effective assumption.
The Transformative Power of Assumption
The Law of Assumption empowers individuals to take control of their realities by focusing on what they want to create rather than dwelling on limitations. It bridges ancient wisdom with modern science, offering a pathway to personal growth and self-mastery.
In Goddard’s words, “Leave the mirror and change your face. Leave the world alone and change your conceptions of yourself. The reflection then will be satisfactory.” By adopting empowering assumptions and consistently reinforcing them, you not only reshape your internal landscape but also influence the external reality that mirrors your beliefs.
Embracing this principle with patience and intention unlocks the profound potential of the mind. Whether through visualization, emotional alignment, or neuroplastic techniques, the Law of Assumption provides a framework for transforming aspirations into tangible outcomes. In the journey of life, it reminds us that we are not merely spectators but active participants in shaping the world we experience.
The Interplay of Assumptions and Action
While the Law of Assumption emphasizes the power of thoughts and beliefs, it is equally crucial to recognize the role of aligned action. Assumptions create a mental framework that influences decisions and behaviors. When your mindset aligns with a belief in abundance or success, you naturally gravitate toward actions that reflect those assumptions.
For instance, someone who assumes they are capable of achieving a fulfilling career may seek out opportunities, network confidently, and dedicate time to skill-building. This proactive behavior, fueled by empowering assumptions, amplifies the likelihood of success. Conversely, negative assumptions can lead to inaction or self-sabotage, perpetuating undesired outcomes.
Recent research in behavioral psychology underscores the connection between belief and behavior. A 2023 study in Psychological Science revealed that individuals with a growth mindset—those who assume abilities can be developed—are more resilient and perform better in challenging scenarios. This aligns with Goddard’s principle, demonstrating that assumptions influence not only internal states but also tangible outcomes.
Assumptions and Social Dynamics
The Law of Assumption extends beyond individual experiences, impacting relationships and social interactions. How you perceive yourself shapes how others perceive and respond to you. For example, assuming confidence and worthiness can foster positive interactions, while self-doubt may unintentionally create barriers in communication.
This phenomenon is reflected in the Pygmalion effect, a psychological concept where higher expectations lead to improved performance. In social contexts, assuming positive outcomes can set a tone of trust, collaboration, and mutual respect, enhancing personal and professional relationships. Goddard’s teachings on embodying desired states resonate here, illustrating how internal shifts ripple outward to influence the external world.
Harnessing Technology to Support Assumptions
Modern tools and technologies can enhance the practice of the Law of Assumption, making it more accessible and measurable. Visualization apps, mindfulness platforms, and affirmation trackers provide structured ways to integrate this principle into daily life. These tools encourage consistency, a key factor in solidifying new neural pathways and reinforcing empowering beliefs.
Emerging technologies like virtual reality (VR) also offer innovative methods to immerse oneself in a desired state. VR experiences that simulate success or abundance can help individuals vividly imagine their goals, amplifying the emotional and psychological impact of their assumptions. Studies in Frontiers in Psychology (2022) suggest that immersive visualization can accelerate mindset shifts, bridging the gap between intention and reality.
A Call to Action: Living the Law of Assumption
The Law of Assumption is a profound reminder of the agency we hold over our lives. By consciously choosing assumptions that align with our aspirations, we reclaim the power to shape our reality. The process requires commitment, patience, and emotional engagement, but the rewards—greater clarity, resilience, and fulfillment—are transformative.
Start small by identifying one assumption you’d like to change. Whether it’s related to career, relationships, or health, focus on replacing limiting beliefs with empowering alternatives. Use the strategies outlined here—visualization, emotional alignment, and consistent reinforcement—to integrate this practice into your routine.
As you embark on this journey, remember Goddard’s wisdom: “Assume the feeling of your wish fulfilled.” By doing so, you not only align your mind and heart with your goals but also set in motion a series of actions and reactions that bring your desires into tangible form. In the grand scheme of life, your assumptions are the foundation upon which your reality is built—so choose them wisely and watch your world transform.
FAQs About the Law of Assumption
1. What is the Law of Assumption in simple terms?
The Law of Assumption is the belief that your assumptions—whether conscious or subconscious—shape your reality. By assuming a desired outcome as true, you align your thoughts, emotions, and actions to manifest that reality. Essentially, it teaches that believing in your goals as if they are already achieved influences your experiences and choices, leading to their fulfillment.
2. How does the Law of Assumption differ from the Law of Attraction?
While both concepts emphasize the power of thought and belief, the Law of Assumption focuses on embodying the feeling of a desired state as though it’s already real. In contrast, the Law of Attraction emphasizes aligning vibrational energy to attract what you desire. The Law of Assumption encourages assuming the identity or reality you want, while the Law of Attraction centers on attracting like energies.
3. What role do emotions play in the Law of Assumption?
Emotions are vital in amplifying the effects of the Law of Assumption. Feeling the emotions associated with your desired state—such as joy, gratitude, or confidence—reinforces the belief and signals to the subconscious mind the importance of that assumption. Positive emotions act as a catalyst, making your assumed reality more potent and likely to manifest.
4. Can the Law of Assumption work for negative beliefs?
Yes, unfortunately, the Law of Assumption works for both positive and negative beliefs. If you assume failure, scarcity, or rejection, your thoughts and actions align with those beliefs, perpetuating those outcomes. This is why it’s essential to cultivate awareness and deliberately choose empowering assumptions that align with your goals and values.
5. How can I start practicing the Law of Assumption today?
To start practicing, follow these steps:
- Identify a specific goal or desire.
- Assume the feeling of having already achieved it.
- Use visualization, affirmations, or journaling to reinforce the assumption daily.
- Align your actions with your belief.
- Stay consistent and trust the process, even if results aren’t immediate.
Conclusion: Embrace the Transformative Power of Assumptions
The Law of Assumption offers a powerful framework for understanding the connection between beliefs, emotions, and reality. Rooted in both spiritual teachings and scientific principles like neuroplasticity, it provides a roadmap to reshape your mindset and life experiences.
By consciously choosing assumptions that align with your aspirations, you unlock the potential to manifest a reality that mirrors your deepest desires. Whether through cultivating positive emotions, visualizing success, or reinforcing empowering beliefs, the journey of applying the Law of Assumption is transformative.
As Neville Goddard said, “Change your conception of yourself and you will automatically change the world in which you live.” Embrace this profound wisdom and take the first step toward living the life you’ve always envisioned. Your reality begins with your assumptions—so assume greatness, abundance, and joy today.
Matthew Patel is a leading voice on Mastering the Growth Mindset and the transformative power of Theta Brainwave States. With years of experience exploring how the mind can unlock limitless potential, Matthew combines science-backed techniques with personal insights to help readers achieve clarity, abundance, and personal growth. His passion for self-improvement and deep understanding of brainwave dynamics make his contributions to The Attraction Mind both practical and inspiring.
