Write It Down, Make It Happen by Henriette Anne Klauser Summary

Write It Down, Make It Happen by Henriette Anne Klauser, Ph.D., teaches how writing goals activates psychological mechanisms like the Reticular Activating System (RAS) to help manifest desires. Through real-life examples—like selling property by documenting price targets—it combines brain science with actionable steps, emphasizing specificity in writing and addressing subconscious fears to align focus with opportunities.

This book suits anyone seeking practical goal-setting strategies, from career changers to personal development enthusiasts. It’s ideal for those overwhelmed by vague aspirations, as Klauser’s exercises help clarify intentions. Writers and journaling advocates will also benefit from its therapeutic writing techniques to overcome mental blocks.

Yes—backed by neuroscience and success stories, the book offers actionable frameworks beyond basic journaling. Readers gain tools like "fast writing" to uncover hidden fears and methods to tie goals to meaningful causes, making it valuable for both skeptics and believers in manifestation.

Klauser explains the RAS filters sensory input to prioritize goal-related cues. Writing specifics (e.g., “$500,000 house by 2026”) trains this brain network to spotlight relevant opportunities, like noticing real estate listings or networking contacts. This mirrors studies showing written goals increase achievement likelihood by 42%.

Set a timer for 5-10 minutes and write stream-of-consciousness about a goal. This bypasses inner critics, surfacing hidden doubts (e.g., fear of rejection). Acknowledging these on paper helps dismantle mental barriers, creating space for proactive steps.

Yes. Documenting fears (e.g., “I’ll fail and look foolish”) externalizes subconscious saboteurs. Klauser cites authors who overcame publication rejections by reframing fears into problem-solving steps. This aligns with cognitive behavioral therapy principles.

Both emphasize intention-setting, but Klauser prioritizes action over mysticism. While The Secret focuses on universal energy, Klauser uses RAS neuroscience and step-by-step writing exercises, making it more practical for skeptics.

Cases include a couple selling their ranch at an exact written price and Jim Carrey manifesting a $10M check years before earning it. These stories illustrate how specificity and emotional commitment amplify results.

Some argue it oversimplifies success by underemphasizing persistent effort. However, Klauser clarifies writing is a first step, not a magic solution—consistent action remains crucial, as shown in her “small goals first” approach.

Both emphasize writing’s transformative power, but Write It Down focuses on goal manifestation, while Writing on Both Sides tackles creative problem-solving. Together, they offer complementary tools for personal and professional growth.

Start with achievable objectives (e.g., weekly savings targets) to build momentum. Success with smaller tasks boosts confidence for larger goals, like career shifts. Klauser ties this to philanthropy—linking personal goals to broader causes sustains motivation.

Documenting desired roles, skills, and salaries primes the RAS to spot relevant trainings or job postings. One case study details a teacher transitioning to corporate training by writing daily about transferable skills, leading to unsolicited offers.