You’ve probably seen it floating around on social media:
“I’m in my delulu era.”
“Delulu is the solulu.”
But what does delulu actually mean?
Short for delusional, it’s become a tongue-in-cheek way of describing unwavering—sometimes unrealistic—confidence. Think: visualizing your dream job, relationship, or lifestyle before any of it exists in real life.
And here’s the twist: sometimes, it works.
In this post, we’ll explore what delulu culture is really about, where it can go wrong, and how to transform it into a powerful psychological tool. For a deeper dive, check out the latest episode of Mental Health Bites Mental Health Bites (you can listen right here in substack, on Apple, Spotify, or watch on YouTube).
Why Is “Delulu” So Alluring?
Let’s be honest—life is hard.
We’re in an era of burnout, doomscrolling, and chronic uncertainty. Delulu culture is a form of rebellion against hopelessness. It says:
“If I believe I’m that person, I can become that person.”
But here’s the catch: delulu becomes harmful when belief replaces action.
When people expect results without effort—or use fantasy to avoid real-life challenges—what starts as optimism becomes emotional escapism.
That said, when used strategically, delulu can function as a self-affirming cognitive hack. It can rewire self-doubt, shift behavior, and build a stronger sense of possibility.
Delulu vs. Visualization: What’s the Difference?
At first glance, delulu and visualization seem similar—they both involve imagining a desired future.
But here’s the key difference:
Visualization is intentional. It’s paired with action, realism, and ongoing feedback.
Delulu, as it’s often practiced, isn’t always goal-directed. It can veer into magical thinking or denial.
Still, they share one essential ingredient: they both shift self-perception.
And when your self-image evolves, your behavior tends to follow.
The Science Behind Visualization
There’s solid research backing the power of mental imagery.
In a study by Ranganathan et al. (2004), participants who only imagined lifting weights increased their strength by 13.5%—without ever picking up a dumbbell.
Another study found that golfers who combined mental practice with physical practice outperformed those who trained physically alone.
Your brain doesn’t always distinguish between imagined success and real experience. That’s why delulu—when rooted in intention—can become a tool for growth.
How to Be Delulu the Healthy Way
If you want to channel this energy constructively, here’s a four-step approach to transform fantasy into progress:
1. Create a “Delulu Vision Statement”
Craft a bold, emotionally resonant mantra that captures your dream identity.
Example: “I’m an Emmy-winning speaker who inspires millions to heal.”
Let it stretch your self-image. It should feel slightly out of reach—and deeply exciting.
2. Anchor It in Action
For every vision, tie it to one small, repeatable behavior.
Want to be a bestselling author? Write 20 minutes a day.
Want a new job? Update your resume and network weekly.
Delusion without discipline is just denial.
3. Run a Weekly Reality Check
Every Sunday, journal your reflections:
What’s working?
What setbacks showed up?
Am I still moving in integrity with my vision?
This builds metacognition—your brain’s ability to self-monitor and adjust.
4. Use the “What If It Works?” Frame
When fear or self-doubt creeps in, interrupt it with this question:
“But what if it works?”
It’s deceptively simple—and psychologically powerful. Your brain is wired to anticipate. This question shifts your mindset from fear to possibility and reduces the tendency toward self-sabotage.
Final Thought
Being delulu isn’t about ignoring reality.
It’s about believing in a future version of yourself before it fully exists—and taking aligned, consistent action to meet it.
Dream boldly. Move wisely.
And when doubt sets in, return to the question that started it all:
What if it works?
If this message resonated, send it to someone who needs a shot of confidence today.
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About me:
Dr. Judy Ho, Ph. D., ABPP, ABPdN is a triple board certified and licensed Clinical and Forensic Neuropsychologist, a tenured Associate Professor at Pepperdine University, television and podcast host, and author of Stop Self-Sabotage. An avid researcher and a two-time recipient of the National Institute of Mental Health Services Research Award, Dr. Judy maintains a private practice where she specializes in comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations and expert witness work. She is often called on by the media as an expert psychologist and is also a sought after public speaker for universities, businesses, and organizations.
Dr. Judy received her bachelor's degrees in Psychology and Business Administration from UC Berkeley, and her masters and doctorate from SDSU/UCSD Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology. She completed a National Institute of Mental Health sponsored fellowship at UCLA's Semel Institute.
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