Low self-esteem often shows up as a lack of confidence, even in activities where a person is highly capable. This worksheet describes an exercise from Neuro-linguistic Programming (NLP), which it also calls a form of self-hypnosis, to help build a sense of confidence. It is a visualization, not a treatment, and it complements professional care without replacing it. If low self-esteem is weighing on you, a counselor or therapist can help.
The summary is to picture yourself with the positive qualities you want while a crowd applauds you. In outline, you might:
- Begin by getting grounded: letting go of concepts and worries and getting in touch with your body, your senses, and the present moment.
- Close your eyes and imagine yourself standing in front of you, then bit by bit give that imagined self the qualities that would give you confidence, which can include non-visual ones such as a steady voice.
- Step inside that image and notice how your body, stance, and gaze change.
- Imagine standing in front of an audience that cheers and applauds.
- Notice where the positive feelings sit in your body. The worksheet calls this spot the physical source point of your confidence, and suggests moving between the visualization and that body feeling for as long as you wish.
