Thanks for the comment.

I had read a comment on another forum where the commenter talked about how your subconscious is helping you navigate life; and that the positive thoughts, affirmations, prayers etc are just you telling your subconscious what you seek. The subconscious then filters your experiences or it highlights what you seek when you come across it instead of drowning it out in the noise of experience.

Also related: my uncle who's fairly religious and I (quite agnostic) have discussions regarding spirituality. He's told me several times that it boils down to reaffirming your belief in your own capabilities and strength. The more you believe that you are strong and capable, the more you will be seeking to do and achieve - and the more successful outcomes you will likely have.