Say NO to Perfectionism dressed up as “High Standards” with Hypnotherapy

Imagine yourself making progress towards your goals, without the need for perfection. See yourself taking imperfect action, and learning from your mistakes. You’re no longer paralyzed by fear of failure; you’re empowered to take bold steps towards your aspirations.

Here is a hypnotherapy script to help someone say NO to perfectionism dressed up as “high standards”:

Induction

(Soft, calming music plays in the background)

“Welcome to this hypnotherapy session, where you’ll explore your relationship with perfectionism and high standards. Allow yourself to settle in, getting comfortable and relaxed. Take a deep breath in through your nose, and out through your mouth. Feel your body letting go of any tension, allowing yourself to sink deeper into relaxation with each breath.”

Deepening

“Imagine yourself standing at the top of a staircase, with each step leading you deeper into relaxation. With each step down, you feel more calm, more centered, and more connected to your inner self. Take a step down, and feel your body relax further. Take another step down, and feel your mind quiet. Take one more step down, and allow yourself to let go of any thoughts or distractions.”

Identifying the Pattern

“Now, imagine yourself in a situation where you feel the pressure to meet high standards. See yourself feeling anxious, critical, or self-doubting. Notice how you strive for perfection, even when it’s unrealistic or unattainable. Allow yourself to acknowledge this pattern, without judgment. You may have learned to equate high standards with self-worth, or to believe that perfectionism is necessary for success. But deep down, you know that perfectionism can be suffocating, and it can prevent you from taking risks, learning from mistakes, and enjoying the journey.”

Reframing the Relationship

“As you continue to breathe deeply, imagine a conversation with your inner critic. See this critic as a voice that pushes you towards perfectionism. Hear yourself responding to this critic, ‘I’m enough, just as I am. I don’t need to be perfect to be worthy.’ Practice saying these words, feeling the freedom and relief that comes with them. You’re no longer bound by the need for perfection; you’re free to strive for excellence, while embracing your humanity.”

Empowering the NO

“Now, visualize a strong, compassionate voice within you. This voice says, ‘NO’ to perfectionism dressed up as high standards. Repeat to yourself, ‘I trust myself, even when I’m not perfect. I prioritize progress over perfection.’ Feel the confidence and self-compassion that comes with this mindset. Imagine yourself standing up straight, with your shoulders back and your head held high. You’re no longer held back by the need for perfection; you’re free to take risks, learn from mistakes, and enjoy the journey.”

Visualizing Positive Progress

“Imagine yourself making progress towards your goals, without the need for perfection. See yourself taking imperfect action, and learning from your mistakes. You’re no longer paralyzed by fear of failure; you’re empowered to take bold steps towards your aspirations. Feel a sense of pride and self-trust, knowing that you’re prioritizing progress over perfection.”

Integration

“As you integrate this newfound awareness and confidence, imagine yourself navigating challenges with greater ease and self-compassion. You’re no longer bound by perfectionism; you’re free to be yourself, imperfections and all.”

Counting Up

“When you’re ready, slowly begin to bring yourself back to full awareness. Take a deep breath in, and out. Feel refreshed, renewed, and empowered. Take one last, deep breath, and when you’re ready, open your eyes.”

Post-Hypnotic Suggestion

“Remember, you are enough, just as you are. You don’t need to be perfect to be worthy. Say NO to perfectionism dressed up as high standards, and YES to self-compassion, progress, and self-trust.”

Reinforcement

“Repeat to yourself, daily, ‘I trust myself, even when I’m not perfect. I prioritize progress over perfection. I’m enough, just as I am.'”