What is confidence?
The dictionary definition of confidence is “a feeling of trust in one’s abilities, qualities, and judgement”. So when people say they lack confidence, they mean that they don’t believe they have the abilities or qualities to carry out certain tasks, for instance an upcoming presentation for work, or that in general they don’t feel “good enough”. This can result in withdrawal from social situations and an avoidance of trying new things or taking on new responsibilities.
So, life gets smaller when you lack inner confidence.
Why does this happen?
The human brain is amazing, allowing us to think complex thoughts and play through future scenarios in our mind. However, part of our brain is similar to the brains of other animals and its only purpose is to keep us alive. It does this by being constantly alert for what it considers to be dangers. Now, back in prehistoric times those dangers were very real… sabre tooth cats, other tribes etc. The prehistoric brain would protect us from such dangers by activating the “flight or fight” response, flooding our bodies with adrenaline to get us to react fast, and move fast.
However, that primitive part of our brain has no idea we’re in the 21st Century, and the same “flight or fight” response can be activated when it serves no useful purpose. And the primitive brain can’t tell the difference between imagination and reality, so adrenaline levels can increase just by worrying about something. For some people, this anxiety response happens all too often, particularly in social situations, and their “comfort zone” becomes smaller and smaller. Confidence shrinks away…
How hypnotherapy can help
The human brain has evolved and we no longer have to be ruled by primitive responses to “danger”. We can work from our intellectual mind, where we see things in perspective and have a much more positive outlook on life’s challenges. Hypnotherapy helps our clients to work more from this positive part of the brain reducing their anxiety levels and enabling them to have the confidence to take on new challenges. This greatly increases their quality of life. So, if you’re struggling with a lack of confidence, take the first step and contact ONE LIFE today. Gillian and Graeme are ready to help.
