The hype: The outcome you want will manifest if you envision it.

Real help: Imagination alone will not make things happen, but it can definitely help. Picturing a passing grade when you haven't studied for a test won't get you very far. But ask any successful athlete and they will tell you that they win more than they lose because they vividly visualize the results they want as they train. If you focus your mind on what you desire AND work hard to bring your goal to fruition, you are more likely to be successful.

The hype: You can catapult yourself to the next level by talking 'as if' you are already there.

Real help: Saying affirmations - telling yourself you are capable and confident in this or that area when you don't feel that way -- will indeed move you steadily where you want to go. But here's the catch: your affirmations can't be too big a stretch. If you're up to your ears in debt, your brain will reject "I am swimming in money" but "My financial decisions are improving" will likely bring about better spending habits. Likewise, "I enjoy moving my body" will be more motivating than "I love working out six days a week" if you're just decided to get off the couch and exercise.

The hype: Positive thinking makes life pain-free.

Real help: There is no question that glass-half-full people have it made. It follows that those who complain less than others are more fun to be around and attract better opportunities. But let's be clear here: optimism will make you more resilient in the face of heartache, disappointment and failure, but not immune to the curveballs all adults are dealt. Optimism is about taking in the whole picture, embracing the good and the bad, and choosing to focus on what's going well over what's wrong. Whether you're sizing up the economy, the cyberspace dating pool or a half-baked self-improvement suggestion, you're bound to fare better if you practice a hopeful perspective.