Hello Andrew,
From my perspective, you're discussing two different methods (and they each have their own nuances).
1) There is
Manifesting through FOCUS (i.e. called Law of Attraction by some).
2) There is
Manifesting through BELIEF.
Manifesting through FOCUS
Simply stated, whatever you FOCUS your thoughts & attention on will manifest in your life, given enough time.
Affirmations are just one way to FOCUS thought. Often, as you mention, emotions are also utilized to enhance the effectiveness of the process.
Although I've used this method with success, I've noticed that there is a possible drawback. If something doesn't manifest over time, discouragement can set in and cause one to feel as if he or she has failed.
In order to avoid getting discouraged over time, at some point, you must completely LET GO of your FOCUS on your intention and allow the Universe to manifest it for you. In other words, once you’ve done the ‘work’ (i.e. envisioning it, feeling it,
affirmations, etc.), it’s necessary to release it and allow it to manifest on its own.
Once you’ve LET IT GO, if it continues to be fun to think about, then go ahead and do that. But, if not, don’t continue to ‘work’ on it.
Manifesting through BELIEF
With
Manifesting through BELIEF, visualizations, affirmations, vision boards, etc. are not utilized. You simply:
1) ASK (The Request should be specific)
2) LET GO of your intention
3) Express GRATITUDE and go on with your life (You can even forget about it)
Both methods require you to be able to LET GO of your intention and
detach from the outcome.
Brief Testimonial
I actually prefer
Manifesting through BELIEF because, if done with
Detachment, it is completely effortless.
Just a quick testimonial on its effectiveness - In addition to other things, I recently used it to get rid of skin cancer (undiagnosed) on my left forearm. Also, I used it to manifest $450,000 and then another $1,000,000 (effortlessly) several years back. I use it for everything now.
Naturally, everyone has their own preferred technique that resonates and works best for them. I don't personally believe there is any "correct" method. It's simply a matter of using what works for you.
Happy manifesting!