In part 1, you learned how to chat with your subconscious mind (SCM) to get to know yourself better. That skill is useful to quit smoking, lose weight, or solve other issues through hypnosis.
Next it’s time to help your subconscious to see different possibilities. Because right now the subconscious has a limited point-of-view. If the subconscious feels the current belief is the right one, it has no desire to change its belief, and you remain stuck.
Let’s meet Wilma who’s under stress. Her husband Fred recently retired. Sometimes he hangs out with his friend Barney, but often he stays home watching TV.
Wilma’s not used to him being around. Her friend Betty (Barney’s her husband) says Wilma will get used to Fred being around. But Wilma needs to alleviate stress now.
Wilma did stage one of the Parts Technique for a few weeks, but now she wants to do more. She wants change. After a couple of minutes of self-hypnosis, she starts stage two.
Parts Technique (stage two)
Wilma: Hi subconscious mind, how are you today?
SCM: Stressed about Fred. Don’t get me wrong, he’s a great guy, and I’m glad he’s retired. I’m just tired of seeing him so much.
Wilma: Hey, we’re both stressed about Fred. Do you want to change this?
SCM: We can’t tell Fred to stop hanging out so much. He’ll be hurt.
Wilma: Are you saying we either do nothing or hurt Fred’s feelings?
SCM: Yes.
Wilma: Have you thought that maybe there’s a third option?
SCM: I don’t see it.
Wilma: Humor me. If there was another way, would you want to hear about it?
SCM: I doubt there’s another way, but I’ll humor you. What is it?
Wilma: Let’s talk to our creative part. Creativity, you’ve heard our conversation. I’d like you to come up with solutions to lower our stress. Don’t worry about whether it’s a good idea or a bad idea. The subconscious and I will sort through your ideas. You just need to come up with ideas without censoring yourself. Ready?
Creativity: Yes!
Wilma: Go ahead and start. When you’re done, let us know.
[Time passes.]
Creativity: Ready! You could help Fred find a hobby, activity, volunteer work, or part-time job outside of the house. Heck, you could do the same for yourself.
Wilma: Great ideas! The subconscious and I will discuss them. Thank you!
Creativity: You’re welcome.
Wilma: Subconscious, what do you think?
SCM: If Fred wants to be outside of the house, we can help him find something, and we won’t hurt his feelings. I like it.
Wilma: What do you think of us doing something outside of the house?
SCM: Maybe. I’ve got options to think about. I don’t feel stuck.
Wilma: I’m glad. Let’s talk tomorrow.
SCM: Okay.
Here are the general steps for stage two of the Parts Technique.
1. Enter hypnosis.
– Do your favorite self-hypnosis technique (e.g., Countdown Technique, or simply deep breathing for a couple of minutes) to enter a relaxed state.
2. Ask the SCM if it’s open to possible new solutions.
– Often the SCM gets stuck in its own world. You can help it get unstuck.
– Be very respectful. Don’t say, “Subconscious, why are you so stubborn?”
– Instead say, “Humor me for second. If there was another way, would you want to hear about it?”
3. If you feel it’s appropriate, bring in Creativity.
– Your version may have a different name.
– It’s not always necessary to bring in Creativity. Use it at your discretion.
4. Discuss the ideas with the subconscious mind.
– Sometimes it may need time to think. It’s fine to discuss the next day.
If you’re thinking stage two is a lot more complex than stage one, you’re right. The example with Wilma could have gone in multiple directions. You’ll find that though it’s complex, it’s also a flexible and powerful technique.
If you practice and get stuck or have questions, contact me. I’m happy to chat for five minutes to help out. Think of me as a resource.