Roxie Nafousi is a self-development coach, inspirational speaker, manifesting expert and 2 x Sunday Times Bestselling author. Her debut book MANIFEST: 7 Steps to Living Your Best Life has become a global success since it entered the market in January 2022, and is widely regarded as the must-have guide to manifestation. It has been translated into 22 languages and has spent 25 weeks in the Sunday Times Bestseller charts. Roxie’s much anticipated follow-up book, MANIFEST: Dive Deeper debuted straight at number 5 in the charts and has already received acclaim from the UK’s top publications. Hailed as ‘the manifesting queen’ by Forbes & the Financial Times, Roxie brings her unique approach to self-development across the world, hosting corporate workshops for the world’s largest companies including Google, Meta, Rothschild, and many more. Roxie also hosts her own sell-out workshops and webinars. Her commitment and dedication to transforming the lives of people who suffer with emotional and mental-health issues and helping them to fulfil their potential has seen her quickly become a leading figure in the wellness world.
In this interview I speak to Roxie Nafousi. We talk about the practice of Manifesting, how to find out what we really want in life, and how to get over our own blockers to achieve success.
Q: What does Manifesting mean?
[Roxie Nafousi]: Manifesting involves leveraging the mind’s power to shape our reality. For me, it’s more than just a concept; it’s a self-development tool and a way of life. My book, “Manifest,” delves into manifestation, but it’s fundamentally a self-help guide. It’s about finding the best version of oneself, gaining empowerment, and unlocking the potential for positive change and transformation.
My personal journey with manifestation began in 2018. Before that, I grappled with addiction – cocaine, alcohol, cigarettes. I had no job or career prospects and was trapped in a cycle of toxic relationships. By May 2018, I hit what felt like my umpteenth rock bottom. It was then that a friend introduced me to a podcast on manifesting. Though skeptical, I thought, “Why not?” Listening to it, I experienced an epiphany: manifestation hinges on self-worth. My lack of it had been steering my life in the wrong direction.
Inspired, I dove headfirst into the realm of self-development. I consumed content from various thinkers, philosophers, and successful individuals. While they might not have explicitly used the term “manifestation,” the underlying principles echoed throughout their teachings. I embraced these concepts, devising my own 7-step process to navigate this vast domain. The transformation in every facet of my life was nothing short of profound.
Describing what manifesting means to me is challenging. Over the past five years, I’ve engaged in countless interviews and talks on the topic. My enthusiasm for it remains undiminished because I genuinely believe in its life-changing potential. It offers people hope, returns control to their hands, and can magnetise not only success and abundance but also happiness and peace.
Q: How do we really know what we want in life?
[Roxie Nafousi]: Firstly, I believe recognising what you truly desire is often a challenge. Many assume it’s the most straightforward part, but it’s not. Our aspirations frequently get clouded by external expectations—be it from friends, family, or society at large. This interference can make it tough to discern our authentic passions. Hence, it’s crucial to connect deeply with our core purpose, values, and the reasons behind our desires.
For instance, when someone says they aim to pursue a particular career, marry by a certain age, or achieve another specific goal, it’s essential to reflect on the underlying motivations. I encourage people to question, “Why? What drives this desire? How will achieving this goal impact the world or others?” Often, if the primary motivation is mere validation or manifesting wealth without a purpose, it might not be the right intention. Let’s say someone wants to manifest money; understanding the ‘why’ is vital. Perhaps it’s about seeking freedom, supporting a family, or valuing adventures. The genuine intention, or the ‘why,’ is foundational.
But sometimes, when the tangible goals aren’t apparent, we have a clearer vision of the person we aspire to be. I envision a version of myself that’s more confident, free from the post-social interaction anxieties I often experience. I yearn for mornings filled with motivation, days imbued with energy and vitality, and the freedom to unabashedly be me. In manifestation, understanding the kind of person we want to evolve into can be just as significant, if not more, than the tangible goals we set for ourselves.
Q: How do we get over fear and doubt?
[Roxie Nafousi]: …fear and doubt significantly shape what we believe we can achieve or desire. You’ve hit the nail on the head. When I ask people to note down their desired earnings for the next week or year, about 95% choose figures they deem “realistic”. They won’t even dare to jot down their dream figures, held back by their internal reservations. When we contemplate our desires, it’s essential to recognise that our minds might already be whispering that certain dreams are unattainable. It’s so potent that it prevents us from even picturing it. To manifest it in reality, we first need to visualise it in our minds. So, it’s crucial to discern when fear impedes even our initial thinking process.
I firmly believe the most transformative part of the manifestation journey is overcoming this fear and doubt. It’s about unearthing that innate strength, empowerment, self-belief, and confidence. That’s precisely why the second step out of my seven is to ‘remove fear and doubt.’ Understandably, this is an evolving journey. In my book, I delve into numerous techniques to aid this process.
The first aspect focuses on profound healing. We all bear wounds and traumas that convince us we’re undeserving or incapable of achieving our dreams. Confronting these is essential. For years, I thought I could bypass these and focus on the present. However, we can’t outrun our past; we need to heal, be it through therapy, counselling, or other methods that help process past traumas.
The second aspect zeroes in on reprogramming our subconscious beliefs. Thanks to the incredible concept of neuroplasticity, we can reshape our thought patterns. Techniques like affirmations, altering our language, or refining our thought processes are invaluable. When combined, both these aspects offer a powerful tool to conquer fear and doubt.
Q: How should people get over the resistance to start new practices?
[Roxie Nafousi]: There’s undeniable resistance to the idea of manifestation. I encounter skeptics, read comments, and know there are people who simply don’t believe in the entire process. They often dismiss it, especially since it has become somewhat of a buzzword. While I get their perspective, my request to everyone is to approach it with an open mind. Why not try it? If it doesn’t resonate, there’s no loss. But imagine the magic if it does!
Q: How do we turn envy into inspiration?
[Roxie Nafousi]: Certainly. I see it as a proactive practice. When that twinge of envy surfaces—maybe due to hearing about a flourishing business, spotting something on social media, or a friend sharing their successes—it’s essential to be mindful of it. Too often, we brush it aside, letting it simmer within. Such unchecked feelings amplify our insecurities and echo thoughts like “I’m not good enough.” It’s vital to recognise these emotions as they arise, then consciously shift our perspective. This is where the power of pause comes in.
When jealousy or envy creeps in, acknowledge it; everyone feels it at times. Ask yourself: What is this feeling revealing about my desires or insecurities? Which part of me still needs healing? Then, pivot to an inspired perspective. Think, “How amazing for them! How did they achieve that? How can I experience that joy?”
Q: How do we get past the things that block us from success?
[Roxie Nafousi]: First and foremost, recognising the issue is key. But it’s also crucial to approach ourselves with genuine compassion. Many times, we become our own worst critics, wondering, “Why can’t I just be more confident? Why do I lack self-belief?” Instead, we should be understanding. Reflecting on thoughts like, “It’s heart-wrenching that my younger self, or even the current me, feels this way. I shouldn’t be trapped in a mindset that holds me back so much.”
From there, it’s all about taking small, consistent actions to foster change. Once you’ve identified the issue and approached it with kindness, it’s essential to embrace trust and surrender. Believe in yourself, trust that change is possible. Then, ponder the practices that will spark that transformation. It could be altering your self-talk, adopting a journaling or meditation routine, or even setting firm boundaries. For every obstacle, there’s a practical step one can take to surmount it.
Q: How powerful is keeping a journalling practice?
[Roxie Nafousi]: Absolutely, journalling is a potent tool. In today’s digital age, we’re so accustomed to screens and typing that the art of writing by hand has become somewhat rare. Yet, there’s a therapeutic quality in penning down our thoughts. It allows us to release and detach from them, altering their grip on us. Journalling can be adapted in various ways, depending on one’s needs or objectives. So, I’m truly an advocate for it as a practice.
Q: How do we best understand what success means to us?
[Roxie Nafousi]: Success, in my view, should be a state we inhabit, not just a distant goal we chase. It all ties back to one’s sense of purpose. If success is narrowly defined by tangible metrics like money, power, or fame, the benchmarks constantly shift, and satisfaction remains elusive. However, if success is about fulfilling a purpose, such as serving others, it becomes more attainable. And remember, every business, not just those in self-help, is in service to others in some capacity. Once you discern how you’re serving, and if that aligns with your personal definitions of success – whether that’s contentment, financial freedom, or something else – you can truly experience and savour that success. It’s a liberating realisation to understand that while continually evolving, you can simultaneously acknowledge, “I am successful.” It’s a profoundly rewarding state of being.
There’s this wonderful intersection where I’ve personally felt successful for quite some time. I truly believe I’m living out my purpose. It reminds me of the saying, “remember the time you wished for the things you have now.” I’m living that dream. However, I always set goals. We humans naturally crave objectives, even small ones, to maintain focus. I relish in the thrill of motivation, the excitement of aiming for more. The journey of life is about growth and evolution. Nobody wants to remain stagnant. I take pleasure in this forward momentum and while I’m driven by these goals, I don’t measure my success by their attainment. In my eyes, I’m already successful. I adore my current life, and I’m eager to keep enjoying it, expanding my reach, and pursuing things that invigorate me.
Q: How do we know where to look for advice?
[Roxie Nafousi]: There’s a multitude of voices out there championing empowerment and facilitating change, and I think that’s commendable. Finding the right guide or mentor is akin to speed dating. Similarly, with therapy, it’s vital to explore different perspectives until you find the voice that resonates deeply with you. Some of my friends resonate with Russell Brand, some with Tony Robbins, and others with Brené Brown. While their core messages might be aligned, their modes of communication vary. I’d suggest diving into YouTube, exploring various podcast interviews, or reading interviews to discover who strikes a chord with you. Engage with their work and gauge the connection. Above all, seek authenticity. Like all trends, it’s likely some might ride the wave without genuine intent. Trust your instincts and ensure the voice you’re listening to is genuine.
Q: What does legacy mean to you?
[Roxie Nafousi]: To be honest, I don’t often reflect on it. I genuinely feel that the internal struggles I faced for the first 29 years of my life were a preparation. I believe those experiences positioned me to empower others and illuminate the strength within them. If I were to envision my legacy, I’d hope it’s that I’ve made a difference, enabling people to lead happier lives and pursue their true desires, largely due to the work I’ve put in.