There is a subtle yet powerful difference between repeating words and truly embodying them. Tony Robbins, the world-renowned life strategist, has helped millions discover that success isn’t just about mindset — it’s about state. One of his most transformational teachings lies in his distinction between affirmations and incantations.
While affirmations are passive declarations, incantations are embodied commands. In this article, we’ll explore Tony Robbins’ take on how a millimeter shift in approach, mindset, and physiology can determine whether we win or lose. We’ll also dive into one of the incantations he used to completely change his life.
📹 Watch the full video here:
What Are Affirmations?
Affirmations are positive statements that we repeat, often in our minds, to instill confidence or rewire limiting beliefs. They’re commonly used in personal development and self-help practices.
Examples:
“I am confident.”
“I am worthy of love.”
“I attract abundance.”
While affirmations can be effective, Tony Robbins challenges us to go a step further. He points out that just thinking positive words may not be enough to drive lasting change, especially when our body and emotional state are not aligned with the message.
What Are Incantations?
Tony Robbins defines incantations as more than affirmations—they are spoken aloud with intensity, motion, and emotion. You don’t just say the words; you involve your whole being.
“An incantation is a way of embodying the truth of a statement and involves a change in state and physiology.”
When you use incantations:
You stand up.
You speak with conviction.
You move your body.
You align voice + belief + emotion.
This blend activates your nervous system and anchors the message deep into your subconscious.
The Power of One Millimeter
In the video, Tony explains how the gap between success and failure is often just a millimeter.
“What a great belief system that when all hell’s breaking loose and nothing’s working that you’re only one millimeter off.”
Instead of believing you’re far from your goal, what if the solution was just a small shift away? That empowering mindset stops people from giving up and pushes them to seek tiny adjustments that create massive change over time.
He illustrates that over time, a 1-degree shift in direction leads to a completely different destination. And what drives that shift? State, emotion, and belief — all cultivated through incantations.
Tony’s Life-Changing Incantation
One of the incantations that changed Tony Robbins’ life goes like this:
“God’s wealth is circulating in my life. His wealth flows to me in avalanches of abundance. All my needs, desires, and goals are met instantaneously because I AM one with God and God is everything!”
He repeated this daily while jogging, pumping his fists in the air, breathing deeply, and getting into a peak state. Over time, his physiology and psychology aligned, and his actions began to reflect his new identity.
This isn’t about wishful thinking. It’s about becoming a version of yourself who expects, believes, and takes aligned action.
Affirmations vs. Incantations: The Key Differences
| Affirmations | Incantations |
|---|---|
| Silent or quietly repeated | Said aloud, powerfully |
| Often passive | Involves motion and state change |
| Focuses on mind | Engages body + voice + mind |
| May lack emotion | Emotionally charged |
| Useful but sometimes superficial | Deeply embodied and felt |
How to Create Your Own Incantation Routine
You don’t need to copy Tony word for word. Here’s how you can create your own incantation practice:
Write down a bold declaration that reflects who you want to become.
Speak it aloud with energy, multiple times.
Move while saying it: walk, jump, or pump your arms.
Repeat daily for 7-21 days.
Feel it in your chest, not just in your head.
✅ Example: “I am bold. I am unstoppable. I take action now.”
My Experience with Incantations
At first, it felt awkward to shout positive phrases out loud. But after a few days, I began to crave it. It felt like a mental shower every morning. I would jog and yell, “I am energy. I am focused. I am ready.”
Something shifted. I stopped postponing. I started finishing tasks. I felt more alive and certain. Tony was right—emotion + motion = transformation.
Final Thoughts: Embodying Your Truth
Whether you choose affirmations or incantations, the key is consistency and embodiment.
If affirmations feel flat, try the incantation method. Let your voice be bold, your body alive, and your spirit engaged. You are closer than you think.
“Remember: success and failure are often separated by a millimeter.” — Tony Robbins
🙌 Try this for 7 days. Share your experience. Comment below: Have you tried incantations?