To receive self-forgiveness for actions of guilt and shame related to being “fake,” one must acknowledge their actions, understand the root of their behavior, and practice self-compassion.
Here’s a hypnotherapy script to help receive self-forgiveness for actions of guilt and shame linked to being fake:
Induction
(Soft, calming music starts playing. Speak in a gentle, soothing tone.)
“Welcome to this safe and peaceful space, where you can let go of all worries and concerns. Allow yourself to settle in, feeling the weight of your body supported by the chair or couch. Take a deep breath in, and as you exhale, feel any tension or stress leave your body.
Imagine yourself standing at the top of a gentle hill, feeling the warm sun on your skin and the soft breeze rustling your hair. With each breath, feel yourself becoming more relaxed, more calm, and more centered.
As you begin to descend the hill, allow your eyelids to grow heavy, feeling your eyes gently closing. You’re safe, you’re supported, and you’re exactly where you need to be. Allow yourself to let go, and trust in the process of healing and self-forgiveness.”
Deepening
“Imagine yourself standing in front of a peaceful lake, feeling the cool water lapping at your feet. With each breath, feel yourself becoming more relaxed, more calm, and more connected to your inner self.
Notice the sensation of the water on your skin, the sound of the gentle lapping, and the feeling of the sun’s warmth on your face. As you breathe in, imagine fresh, clean air filling your lungs, and as you exhale, imagine any guilt, shame, or self-doubt leaving your body.
Allow yourself to sink deeper into relaxation, feeling your muscles release any tension or stress. You’re safe, you’re supported, and you’re exactly where you need to be. Trust in the process, and allow yourself to let go.”
Forgiveness
“Bring to mind the actions, the behaviors, or the choices that have led to feelings of guilt and shame related to being fake. Perhaps it’s pretending to be someone you’re not, or hiding your true feelings and thoughts. Maybe it’s feeling like you’re living a lie, or that you’re not being authentic.
As you reflect on these experiences, allow yourself to acknowledge the emotions that arise. It’s okay to feel guilty, ashamed, or regretful. But also remember that you are not defined by these emotions. You are more than your actions, and you are capable of growth, change, and forgiveness.
Imagine a warm, compassionate light beginning to fill your body, starting at the crown of your head and flowing down to your toes. As this light fills you, it brings with it the power of self-forgiveness.
Repeat the following phrases to yourself, allowing the words to sink deeply into your mind and heart:
‘I forgive myself for pretending to be someone I’m not. I forgive myself for hiding my true feelings and thoughts. I forgive myself for feeling like I’m living a lie, or for not being authentic. I forgive myself, and I let go of the burden of guilt and shame.’
As you repeat these phrases, feel the weight of guilt and shame lifting from your shoulders. Feel the compassion and understanding filling your heart, and know that you are deserving of love, kindness, and respect – regardless of your past choices or behaviours.”
Releasing the Past
“Imagine that you are standing in front of a large, old mask. This mask represents the facade, the pretense, and the hiding that has led to feelings of guilt and shame.
As you look at the mask, notice that it’s starting to crack, to fade away, and to lose its hold on you. Take a deep breath, and as you exhale, imagine yourself gently removing the mask, allowing your true self to shine through.
Feel the freedom and liberation that comes with releasing the need to pretend, to hide, or to be someone you’re not. Feel the empowerment that comes with being authentic, genuine, and true to yourself.
Repeat the following phrases to yourself, allowing the words to sink deeply into your mind and heart:
‘I release the need to pretend, to hide, or to be someone I’m not. I choose to be authentic, genuine, and true to myself. I trust in my ability to be me, without apology, without pretense, and without shame. I am free to be myself, and to live a life that is authentic, meaningful, and fulfilling.'”
Empowerment
“Imagine that you are standing in front of a beautiful, sparkling mirror. As you look into the mirror, notice the person staring back at you. See the strength, the resilience, and the beauty that shines from within.
Remember that you are capable of growth, change, and forgiveness. You are deserving of love, kindness, and respect – regardless of your past choices or behaviors. You are strong, you are brave, and you are worthy of happiness and self-love.
Repeat the following phrases to yourself, allowing the words to sink deeply into your mind and heart:
‘I am enough, exactly as I am. I am worthy of love, kindness, and respect. I trust in my ability to be me, and to live a life that is authentic, meaningful, and fulfilling. I am free to be myself, and to shine my light for all to see.'”
Awakening
“Take a deep breath in, and as you exhale, imagine yourself slowly returning to the present moment. Feel the weight of your body on the chair or couch, and notice the sensations in your surroundings.
When you’re ready, slowly open your eyes, and take a moment to notice how you’re feeling. Notice any shifts in your perspective, any changes in your emotions, or any sense of freedom and liberation.
Remember that self-forgiveness is a journey, and it’s okay to take it one step at a time. Be gentle with yourself, Gerald, and trust in the process of healing and growth. You are deserving of love, kindness, and respect – and you are capable of creating a brighter, more compassionate future for yourself.”