From ideation to manifestation: How turning your dreams into reality is like building a campervan

We know visualizing is key to manifesting goals, but what’s often overlooked is taking the action needed to move us toward what we want and help make them real.

The process from idea to building our campervan offers a great analogy for the broader concept of manifestation.

Manifestation is both a mental and physical process.

1 Initial Vision and Measurement – Setting Your Intention

Campervan: In the first step we measured the available space and determined the general layout. This helped to understand the limitations and possibilities of the space. We decided where main elements like the bed, kitchen, and storage would go.

Manifestation: In life, this step is like setting your intention. You assess your current situation (your “space”) and become clear about what you want to bring into your life.

2 Material Selection – Considering Practical Factors

Campervan: Here, we considered the types of materials to use. For example, we had to think about things like weight, moisture resistance, and durability to make sure our design would work well in real life.

Manifestation: In the manifestation process, this step grounds your vision in reality. It is about acknowledging the practicalities and limitations of your desires. What resources do you need? What challenges might arise? What qualities are essential for success?

3 Rough Idea and Prototyping – Experimenting and Visualizing

Campervan: Once we had a rough idea of the materials and layout, we used a design program to create a visual prototype. We experimented with different configurations, colors, and textures to see how everything would look and feel.

Manifestation: In life, this corresponds to experimenting with different approaches or strategies to achieve your goal. Visualization techniques, mood boards, and small-scale trials can help you refine your plan and get a clearer picture of what you want.

4 Decision and Blueprint – Commitment and Planning

Campervan: After finalizing the design, we committed to a blueprint. This was a detailed plan that we followed to build the interior exactly as envisioned.

Manifestation: This stage is about making a firm commitment to your goal. You create a detailed plan, outlining the steps you need to take and the timeline for achieving them. At this point, you’re ready to move from planning to action.

5 Building – Taking Action

Campervan: The final step was the actual construction. We built the interior according to our blueprint, bringing our design to life.

Manifestation: In life, this is the execution phase. You take consistent, intentional actions in line with your plan, moving steadily toward your desired outcome.

6 Adjustment and Refinement

Campervan: Even after building, we may have found that certain adjustments were necessary. While the previous camping gas burner stove with flexible tubes was functional, upgrading to a built-in stove with fixed tubes offered better functionality, enhanced security, and savings on vehicle insurance.

Manifestation: Similarly, in life, you may need to adjust your plans or actions based on feedback, unexpected challenges, or new information. Flexibility and persistence are key.

The process described is a good example of how manifestation isn’t just about thinking or wishing—it’s about actively creating and moving towards what you want. In both campervan design and life, it’s about taking steps, making informed choices, and continuously working toward your vision. The act of doing, planning, and adjusting in line with your idea is what turns it into reality.

In this way, manifestation is both a mental and physical process.