One thing at a time

A few years ago I was interviewed about hypnosis along with providing the interviewer with an induction (a hypnosis session). The interview itself and the pre-induction information gathering (on my part) was meshed together. This demonstrated to me afterwards why pre-induction assessments are so necessary.

She brought up smoke cessation and the problem of weight gain during the quitting phase of smoking. While she was talking, her emphasis was on the weight gain. If someone talks a great deal about a subject, even if they claim some other concern, it is very likely that the most-articulated issue is the one that the subconscious mind is preoccupied with mainly.

In forming suggestions for hypnosis, it's important to remember that the mind can only focus on one thought at a time. It sounds silly but consider that the Left-mind operates in a global sense. If you try to think of something as desirable and disgusting at the same time - it will not work. Suggestion management not only requires the sensible goals to be measurable, positive, and do-able, it also needs to be simple and brief (not compound).

Later, I learned she wanted the emphasis on smoke cessation even though she discussed weight gain moreso. During the pre-induction session I would analyze the issue underlying both the weight gain and smoking and then treat each habit separately.

During your intake, we will look at all your concerns and work on one thing at a time.

(Clipart "Losing My Mind" by worldartsme.com)

Please comment below and tell me what other examples of compound habits or issues may present themselves.