I have always struggled with a strong social phobia. I have made a lot of progress in the past year and it continues to subside. The problem is that it has had a tremendous effect on my behaviors and personality. I guess the fear was with me for so lon that it had a permanent effect on me. The problem is that I am conquering the social fears, but the behaviors that go with it are another story. Anybody can stand tall, but everybody would look slightly different doing it. My body language and personality (at times) are still very stiff and weak. I have spent thousands of dollars trying to help myself, including Centerpointe. I can't afford to spend anymore, so I will make due with the Paraliminals that I have. The only thing that has helped me is the Paraliminals, along with positive mental imagery. People reveal themselves through their body language, speech and behavior, mostly without even being aware of it. That's what I mean by 'esoteric' and I reckon that changing that would be a pretty big change. If IPM cannot change the 'esoteric' stuff, then I don't see what good it is to anybody. I thought that's what it is supposed to do. I am using the model so that I take on the esoteric qualities like assertiveness, not just to 'take away' weak and insecure qualities.
I cannot simply accept it and leave it at that. It has a terrible impact on careers and relationships. I have had very little success on the job and most women are not exactly attracted to a man whose behavior looks insecure. I am not living up to my potential in any area of my life. I think that people see me as very unsure of myself and so they don't have confidence in me. I know that my behavior looks insecure and fearful and that DOES make me insecure. If I could change the 'esoteric' qualities, I could make some real progress.
If I keep using the IPM every day will it eventually take hold? I can see some small changes after only five sessions, but so far nothing radical.
