At a time when we long for quick change, a better life, fulfilling our dreams or improving ourselves, we often resort to various personal development techniques. One of the most popular is the 369 Method. It is a simple system that promises that with the right intention and repeated visualization, we can direct our lives towards what we truly desire. But is this really the case?

Many users report that the method has helped them land a new job, attract a relationship, or move forward in their personal development. How does the 369 Method work, how can it be useful, and what limitations does it have? Is it worth a try?

How the 369 Method works

The 369 Method follows a simple but specific process.

  • In the morning, you write (or say) your affirmation (i.e. a positive statement) three times.
  • In the afternoon, you say it to yourself again six times.
  • In the evening, you repeat the affirmation nine more times.

The affirmation should be a positively worded thought that you formulate in the present tense, as if the desired state already exists. An example might be the sentence, “I am happy, loved and surrounded by love.” Repeat this sentence in your head, or write it on paper several times.

This routine is recommended to be done over a period of time, commonly said to be 33 to 45 days. In addition to the actual writing down, visualizations often accompany the recommendations. That is, while writing, imagine what it will feel like when your wish comes true. You try to live it and put your energy into thinking about its fulfillment. According to supporters of the method , the process actually works.

Why 369 can be a life-changing method

Using the 369 method can have several positive effects for some people:

  • Increased concentration and work ethic: Repeatedly writing affirmations keeps your goal at the forefront of your mind. This is likely to make you more alert and motivated to act. You look for new opportunities, change your behavior, and make more effort to accomplish your goal.
  • More positive mind-set and self-esteem: when you repeatedly affirm what you want and visualize it as reality, you can reframe your inner dialogue. Instead of doubt, negative scenarios or fear, faith, clearer intention and openness to change will take over.
  • Help in clearly articulating dreams and goals: many people have difficulty realizing what they really want. But once you have that clearly defined, you can often begin to make your goals a reality. This makes them more concrete and realistic, and that’s the first step to making them happen.
You can write the affirmations down or say them out loud. It's up to you. ━━ You can write the affirmations down or say them out loud. It's up to you. ( Source: Marcos Paulo Prado /  Unsplash+ )

Limitations and criticism

The 369 Method can improve your life and in many cases help you. It motivates you and helps you to meet your goals. On the other hand, it has some risks. It is not a miracle potion, but a tool of potential help. If you choose goals that are too high, believing you will meet them can, in turn, mean a big fall when they are not met. Depressive states then arise and people can have major mental health problems.

Moreover, there is a lack of scientific evidence that the numbers 3, 6 and 9 have objective power. The principle of the method is partly based on numerology or spiritual theories that are not supported by empirical studies. The effect is individual and depends on the realism of expectations and subsequent actions. Just writing affirmations without subsequent action is usually not enough. In short: the method can be an aid, but it is not a substitute for effort, decision and meaningful action.