Confidence/Self-Esteem

  Low self-esteem is a common human experience, not a personal failing. It happens when someone consistently undervalues themselves, doubts their abilities, or struggles to feel worthy of respect, love, or success. Everyone has moments of self-doubt, but low self-esteem is more persistent and can affect thoughts, emotions, and behaviours over time.

Low self-esteem often develops gradually. It can be influenced by childhood experiences, relationships, societal pressures, or repeated negative self-talk. For example, critical caregivers, bullying, academic or work challenges, or comparing oneself to others can create a persistent inner narrative of inadequacy. This does not mean a person is “broken” or “unworthy”; it simply reflects patterns that the mind has learned over time.

People with low self-esteem may experience a range of thoughts and feelings:

• Persistent self-criticism or negative self-talk
   
• Difficulty accepting compliments or recognising strengths
   
• Anxiety about making mistakes or being judged
   
• Avoidance of challenges due to fear of failure
   
• Difficulty setting boundaries or asserting needs
   

These experiences can affect relationships, work performance, and overall wellbeing. People may feel “less than” or undeserving, even when evidence suggests otherwise. Often, low self-esteem is maintained by cognitive patterns in the brain — negative beliefs that feel automatic and self-reinforcing.

 The brain naturally forms patterns based on repeated experiences. When someone internalises criticism, rejection, or failure, the mind can adopt a default mode of doubt and self-judgment. Over time, these patterns feel automatic, shaping perception and behaviour. Low self-esteem is therefore less about inherent worth and more about how the mind has learned to evaluate itself. 

Low self-esteem is not a moral flaw or a permanent state. It is a signal that someone may need care, support, or new ways of thinking about themselves. With awareness, kindness, and practice, these patterns can be reshaped. Therapeutic approaches, including Solution Focused Hypnotherapy, mindfulness, and cognitive strategies, can help people reconnect with their strengths, recognise their value, and build confidence gradually.

Understanding low self-esteem as a learned pattern rather than a fixed trait fosters self-compassion. By taking small, achievable steps, people can shift from self-doubt to self-acceptance, from hesitation to confidence, and from fear of judgment to authentic self-expression. It is a journey — one that honours human vulnerability while nurturing resilience, self-worth, and hope.

 Low self-esteem is a common experience where people doubt their worth, abilities, or value. It can affect confidence, relationships, and overall wellbeing. Solution Focused Hypnotherapy offers a gentle, supportive approach to help rebuild self-worth, focus on strengths, and foster a more positive sense of self — without judgment or blame. 

Low self-esteem often comes from repeated negative thoughts, past experiences, or critical self-talk. These patterns become automatic, influencing how you perceive yourself and the world. SFH works with both the intellectual brain (rational, solution-focused) and the subconscious mind, helping to reduce negative automatic thinking and strengthen positive self-beliefs.

Through guided relaxation and focused conversation, SFH helps the mind notice what is already working well, and gradually reinforce confidence, self-acceptance, and resilience.

Hypnosis, or trance, is a natural, relaxed state similar to daydreaming. In this state, the subconscious is more receptive to positive suggestions and imagery. SFH uses trance to:

Highlight personal strengths and achievements
Reduce self-critical thoughts
Visualise and internalise a more confident, capable version of yourself

Over time, these positive patterns become more automatic, helping you respond to challenges with calm confidence rather than self-doubt.

Unlike therapies that focus on past mistakes or failures, SFH emphasizes the future — exploring what’s already going well and what a confident, self-assured version of you looks like. Each session is collaborative, supporting achievable steps toward healthier self-perception.

With consistent practice, clients often report feeling lighter, more capable, and more comfortable in their own skin. SFH doesn’t just manage low self-esteem; it helps transform your relationship with yourself — fostering self-compassion, confidence, and a stronger sense of personal value.