Overcoming Imposter Syndrome as a New Hypnotist
Hi there! It’s Kimberly and Whitney, and we’re back with another episode of the Hypno Pro Accelerator Podcast. Today, we’re diving into something so many new and returning hypnotists face: imposter syndrome. Whether you’ve just earned your certification or are reigniting your hypnosis practice after some time away, overcoming self-doubt is a key step in building a successful and confident career.
What Is Imposter Syndrome?
Let’s talk about this psychological phenomenon that shows up as persistent feelings of not being good enough, even when there’s plenty of evidence to the contrary. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Many hypnotists—whether they’re brand new or have been in the field for years—struggle with these feelings.
Whitney recently spoke with a seasoned hypnotist who’d taken a break and was re-entering the field. Despite decades of experience, they felt like they were starting from scratch. Moments like this remind us that imposter syndrome doesn’t care about how long you’ve been practicing or how much you’ve achieved. What matters is recognizing your value and reminding yourself of the extensive training, certification, and life experience you bring to the table.
Knowing Your Worth
We can’t stress this enough: knowing your worth is everything. When those self-doubts creep in, take a moment to reflect on the time, energy, and resources you’ve invested in your hypnosis training. Write it all down if you need to! Seeing it on paper can be a powerful reminder of how much you’ve accomplished.
We also recommend taking a look at what other hypnotists are doing in your area or from your training cohort. This isn’t about comparison—it’s about understanding the landscape and using it to affirm your own value. As Kimberly likes to say, “Once you know your worth, no one can take it away.”
Challenges with Family and Friends
Here’s a tricky one: family and friends. Transitioning into hypnosis can sometimes bring skepticism from those closest to you. Kimberly remembers the hesitancy from loved ones when she made the shift. Our advice? Don’t rely on family and friends as your first clients. Instead, seek validation and practice from people outside your immediate circle. It’s often easier to grow your confidence with clients who see you strictly as a professional.
Action Builds Confidence
One of the best ways to overcome imposter syndrome is by taking action. Start by offering complimentary sessions to build your confidence and gain valuable experience. These sessions often lead to glowing reviews that boost your credibility online and in your community.
Another tip? Create a plan or structure for your sessions. Having a clear roadmap can ease any anxiety and help you feel more prepared. Trust us, this simple step can make a huge difference in how you approach your work.
What If Self-Doubt Persists?
If those feelings of inadequacy stick around, don’t forget the power of hypnosis itself. Self-hypnosis can be a game-changer when it comes to reinforcing your confidence. Use it to address any deep-seated blocks or negative beliefs holding you back. Remember, the tools you use to help others can work wonders for you too.
You’re Not Alone
Finally, we want to remind you that imposter syndrome is a universal struggle. We’ve been there, and so has almost every hypnotist we know. The key is to acknowledge those feelings, take steps to address them, and keep moving forward. Growth is an ongoing process, and you’re doing amazing.
Moving Forward
We’ll leave you with one of our favorite resources: a TED Talk by Dr. Amy Cuddy on using body language to build confidence. It’s a fantastic reminder that sometimes, acting confident can help you feel confident, too. Check it out if you need an extra boost.
Thanks for joining us for this important discussion. We’re so proud of the work you’re doing, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Tune in next week for more tips, insights, and encouragement as you build your hypnosis practice with confidence. Let’s grow together!
With love and support,
Kimberly & Whitney
