EFT TIPS AND HINTS...
The Basic Recipe of EFT™ is a powerful device, about 80% effective. An even
higher ratio is possible when you know how to handle impediments.
1) BE MORE SPECIFIC
One of the most common errors made by EFT™ newcomers is using broad labels
for problems and then being discouraged with the result. Such issues such as
"I don't have good relationships," "I can't lose weight," or "My father always
abused me" may seem specific but are actually very general, or global.
Finding SPECIFICS for each of these problems brings up separate ASPECTS that are
contributing to the issue. These aspects can be treated and eliminated one by
one until the entire foundation supporting the issue collapses.
For example, one might say "Even though I have this feeling of inadequacy
in relationships, I deeply and completely accept myself," might prove more
helpful that "Even though I have a pattern of bad relationships." When
working with weight issues, you can address certain urges or unhealthy eating
patterns, or even the anxiety underlying the weight problem. And "Even though
I have this anger about my father embarrassing me at my 15th birthday party,"
will clear up that issue quicker than "Even though my father abused me."
Often seeing progress with specific aspects provides incentive to keep working
on the issue.
2) TREAT ASPECTS SEPARATELY
Aspects sometimes may seem like apparent impediments because they seem to
impede progress. Sometimes as we treat an emotion, another aspect of the same
problem arises. Each aspect is a new portion of the problem that needs
addressing before complete relief. Be aware of switching aspects! Sometimes,
when tapping on pain, for example, the pain may have diminished but soreness or
tightness remains in its place. The soreness or stiffness is another aspect that
needs to be addressed separately of the pain. When emotions or aspects change,
keep tapping and change the Setup Statement and Reminder Phrase to reflect the
new emotion, or aspect.
3) BE PERSISTENT
Whether working with a specific aspect or with a general issue, persistence
is sometimes the key to success. Although you may see "instant" success with
EFT™ with some issues, many times creativity and patience are the difference
between failure and success. The key to real success is to get the issue to a 0,
not just stop at a 2 or a 3. Be flexible, follow emotions or pains as they
change during a session as this is often symbolic of new aspects or issues
needing treatment during a session. Asking "What does this remind you of?"
"When was the first time you felt like this?" or even "What in your life
is a pain in your neck?" (when treating neck pain) often brings up aspects
that are contributing to the problem.
