"もちろんそれはあなたの頭の中で起こっているんだ、ハリー。でも、どうしてそれが現実ではないということになるんだい？"

The idea here is pretty simple yet profound: just because something exists in your mind doesn’t mean it’s any less real. We often dismiss our thoughts, dreams, and feelings as mere figments of our imagination, but they shape our reality just as much as the tangible world does.

This quote comes from J.K. Rowling's "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows." It’s said by Dumbledore to Harry in a kind of surreal, in-between place that Harry finds himself in after a near-death experience. Rowling uses this moment to blur the lines between the physical world and the mental or emotional realm, suggesting that our inner experiences matter deeply.

Let’s think about a practical example. Picture an athlete—say a runner. Before a big race, she visualizes herself crossing the finish line, feeling the ground beneath her feet, the roar of the crowd. She’s experiencing the race in her mind. This mental rehearsal can significantly enhance her performance. Studies have shown that athletes who visualize their success often perform better. Their mental practice is as real as their physical training.

So, how can you apply this in your own life? Start by acknowledging your thoughts and feelings. They’re not just "all in your head"—they’re a crucial part of your reality. If you have a dream or a goal, spend time visualizing it. Imagine every detail and let yourself feel the emotions that come with achieving it. This isn’t just daydreaming; it’s a way to prepare your mind and boost your confidence.

Now, imagine you’re at a coffee shop with a friend who’s upset because they’re stressed about an upcoming job interview. They’re worried they’ll mess up, and their mind is racing with negative thoughts. You tell them about this idea: just because these fears are in their head doesn’t make them unreal. But, that also means the positive visualization they could do—the imagining of a successful interview—can be just as real and powerful. You encourage them to rehearse answering questions confidently in their mind and to see themselves shaking hands with the interviewer afterward, feeling proud and relieved.

By shifting their mental focus from fear to confidence, they’re using their mind to create a positive reality. And when the day of the interview comes, they’ll walk in feeling more prepared and self-assured because they’ve already "lived" that success in their head.

In short, don’t underestimate the power of your inner world. Your thoughts and feelings are real, and they can shape your reality in surprising ways. Embrace them, use them, and watch how they transform your life.