Change is an internal process
This is a subject that has long been a mystery. We have had very little understanding of change —
- How we achieve it
- Why it is so difficult
- What it actually requires
Thousands of pages have been written over the years advising us in various ways to “get rid of” our negative attitudes and “think positively”. We read the words, agree with the principles — and then continue acting according to the patterns our old habits dictate. The conscious mind agrees. The subconscious does not. And so we end up at a standstill.
Because we spend our lives doing what we feel like doing, the first condition for change is that we genuinely feel like achieving what we want.
How often do we hear things like: — I can do it if I really want to, I just need to make up my mind…
Another classic: — I’m going to start / stop / get going with…
As soon as…
- Things calm down a little…
- The vacation is over
- The in-laws have gone home
- My boss gives me that raise
- It gets a little warmer / cooler
The list can go on forever.
Willpower is NOT the key to change
If willpower were the key, we would have no problem changing ourselves at all — we would simply will our way to the desired result. Nor do we achieve change by talking about it, since we do that all the time and it has not gotten us very far. And we do not achieve change by wanting it more than we want food — that would not fill an empty stomach either. The only way we achieve change is by initiating a process for change — a technique you learn to apply through self-hypnosis.
The key to change is not willpower — here we make clear why relying on sheer determination alone to reach change is futile.
There are natural reasons why New Year’s resolutions get broken — often already in January. This is built on natural laws and universal principles, on how the conscious and subconscious minds come into conflict. Here is the rule: The more forced will from the conscious mind, the less subconscious response. The emotional mind — the subconscious — lies dormant and grows stronger in getting its way the more it is resisted.
Dieting is a good example of this. When we are at a party and trying to stick to our “program”, we use our conscious mind and exercise willpower while the emotional mind — the subconscious — wants something entirely different. If something we are weak for is served (say, chocolate cake), the subconscious, now running on autopilot and being resisted by our conscious mind, will push back and say: — I want that chocolate cake, and if you don’t let me have it, I’ll show you who’s in charge. The moment you finish this program, you’re going to give me exactly what I want — and you know it.
Imagination overrides reason
When there is conflict between the different levels of the mind, dieting is a perfect example of how setbacks work. People who diet traditionally often gain 10–15% more weight after finishing the program than before they started.
We achieve change by giving specific and detailed information to our subconscious mind. How do we do that?
Would you rather have professional help with your change — direct, focused and with lasting results?
Call and tell us where things stand for you: 📞
Hypnosinstitutet does not treat, diagnose or prescribe. Hypnotherapy does not replace contact with licensed healthcare professionals.