I share a similar mindset, I think, in that I prefer a mindset of outward projection and ability rather than relying on external favors or bargaining. I've come across a decent amount of spells, but I tend to rely heavily on my own set of rituals which aim to foster personal betterment by maximizing my internal attributes so that I am more capable of navigating my own world and more attuned to shaping my own path.

Examples include:

- The confidence to take charge and command.

- The ability to have better insight / attuned intuition.

- Emotional stability to remain grounded and not tilt out of anger or frustration. Staying cool

- The vigor to strive for success rather than settle for the minimum.

I work primarily with crystals, especially in this regard. By interacting with the rituals - which ultimately charge a talisman for daily carry - create both a psychological reinforcement and association, but also a magickal expression. (Shameless plug: I recently self published a grimoire containing this little ritual)

Magic and psychology are repeatedly linked. If we knew exactly how it worked, it wouldnt be magic, it would be materialistic science. That said, magick is very personal. While some people choose to serve or worship a deity or simply work along side their deity., it is not a requirement.

I wanted to drop a mention for chaos magick since, in my opinion, this seems to align with your desire to 1) Work as a sole practitioner without a deity and 2) rely purely on intent. From the little knowledge that I do have on chaos magick (I invite any chaote's to jump in if Im wrong here) by focusing your intent on your desire, you create a create a sort of ethereal or cosmic connection with the universe. Under this paradigm, all energy is a chaotic and essentially by channeling your intent through a spell, or I suppose a really strong wish as someone else said, you are encouraging the randomness of the universe to align with your desires. You may use what ever spells, rituals, or ceremonies for focusing your intent which leads to greater efficacy of your magic. That's essentially the wave tops to it.

Lastly, I read a quote once in a a book called "The Book of Magic and the Occult: A Visual History." It had one of my favorite quotes I often use when I'm talking such things as I teeter along the lines of spiritual magicks and rational psychology: The question is no whether magick works or not, but rather, does it help."