Neuro Linguistics Programming: A definition and ultimate guide to how NLP works.

I lurve NLP! It speaks to my inner desire to understand human behaviour, why people are the way they are and how they choose to move through the world. I've always been curious about society, culture and the way the mind works so it was a natural next step for me to add NLP studies to my bow in the downtime I had during the pandemic lockdowns. And boy, was my mind blown!

If you have studied NLP or any other modality closely linked to self you will know that YOU become the subject! Each topic, concept of tool I studied I applied to myself so that by the time I graduated I was not only exhausted but also a changed person with a new perspective. Read on and I'm sure you’ll appreciate why.

Definition

Neuro-Linguistic Programming, commonly known as NLP, is a method of personal development and communication that seeks to understand the relationships between the neurological processes ("neuro"), language ("linguistic"), and behavioral patterns ("programming") learned through experience. NLP is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected and can be modified through the use of language and other techniques. It was developed in the 1970s by Richard Bandler and John Grinder, who studied successful therapists and communicators to identify their strategies and techniques. Today, NLP is used in a variety of fields, including therapy, business, education, and personal development.

What are the 16 NLP presuppositions?

The 16 NLP presuppositions are a set of fundamental beliefs or assumptions that are at the core of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP). These presuppositions help individuals to approach life in a more positive and constructive manner and may be discussed in relation to a clients experience during a session. They are:

• The map is not the territory: Every person has a unique map of the world, and it is important to understand that our perception of reality is subjective.
• The meaning of communication is the response you get: The way people interpret your words is more important than the words themselves.
• Resistance in a client is a sign of a lack of rapport: When people resist or are not responsive, it is often a signal that there is a disconnect or a lack of understanding.
• People have all the resources they need: Everyone has the ability to change, learn, and grow.
• There is no failure, only feedback: Every experience provides an opportunity to learn and improve.
• The person with the most flexibility of behavior will have the most influence: The ability to adapt and respond to changing circumstances is key to success.
• All procedures should increase wholeness: NLP techniques should be designed to enhance a person’s overall well-being.
• Everyone is doing the best they can with the resources they have available: It is important to approach others with empathy and understanding.
• Behavior is geared towards adaptation: Every behavior, even negative ones, has a purpose and is an attempt to adapt to a given situation.
• We cannot not communicate: Communication takes many forms, including verbal and nonverbal, and it is always happening, even if we are not aware of it.
• The meaning of your communication is the response you get: It is important to be aware of how others are interpreting your words and actions.
• The mind and body are interconnected: Mental and physical health are intertwined.
• People respond to their internal representation of reality, not to reality itself: Our perception of reality is influenced by our beliefs and experiences.
• The person with the most flexibility will control the system: The ability to adapt to changing circumstances is a key factor in achieving success.
• People are not their behaviors: It is important to separate a person’s behavior from their identity.
• Everyone has a unique model of the world: Each person has their own perspective and understanding of the world around them.

How Neuro Linguistics Programming works

Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) works by understanding the relationships between our thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, and then using language and other techniques to modify those patterns. Let’s look at some of the key principles and techniques used in NLP:

Understanding the power of language: NLP recognizes that the language we use can influence our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Therefore, practitioners of NLP pay close attention to the words and phrases people use when communicating with them and aim to use language that will help clients achieve their desired outcomes.

• Anchoring: This is a technique used in NLP to help clients access desired states (such as confidence or relaxation) when needed. The practitioner will use a physical gesture or trigger word to create an association between the desired state and the trigger, which can then be used to bring about the state in the future.
• Reframing: Another NLP technique, this is used to change the way a client perceives a situation or problem. The practitioner will help the client see the situation in a different way, which can lead to a different emotional response and a more positive outcome.
• Visualization: Visualization is a technique used to create mental images of desired outcomes. By imagining a positive outcome, clients can increase their motivation and confidence, and make the desired outcome more likely to occur.
• Sensory acuity: This refers to the ability to observe and interpret the subtle cues that people give off through their body language, tone of voice, and other nonverbal signals. Practitioners of NLP use sensory acuity to gain a better understanding of their clients and to tailor their approach to meet their clients' needs.

These are just a few of the many techniques used in NLP with the overarching goal to help clients identify and achieve their goals by modifying their patterns of thought, emotion, and behaviour.

Neuro Linguistics Programming versus Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) are both forms of psychotherapy that aim to help individuals change their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. While they share some similarities, there are also some key differences between the two approaches:

• Focus: CBT focuses primarily on the cognitive processes that underlie behaviour, while NLP is more focused on the relationship between language, behaviour, and the mind-body connection.
• Techniques: CBT uses specific techniques, such as identifying and challenging negative thought patterns, while NLP uses a range of techniques, such as anchoring, reframing, and visualization.
• Evidence base: CBT has a strong evidence base and is widely recognized as an effective form of therapy for a range of mental health conditions. While there is some evidence to support the effectiveness of NLP, it is not as well-established as CBT.
• Integration with other therapies: CBT is often used in combination with other forms of therapy, such as medication or interpersonal therapy, while NLP is typically used as a standalone therapy.

Ultimately, the choice between NLP and CBT will depend on the individual's needs and preferences, as well as the specific issues they are seeking to address. It may be helpful to consult with a mental health professional to determine which approach is best suited to your needs.

Neuro Linguistics Programming Techniques

Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) uses a wide range of techniques to help individuals modify their patterns of thought, emotion, and behavior. Here are some commonly used NLP techniques:

• Anchoring: This technique involves associating a specific stimulus (such as a touch, sound, or image) with a desired state (such as confidence or relaxation) to create an anchor that can be used to access the desired state in the future.
• Reframing: Reframing involves changing the way a person perceives a situation or problem by shifting the context in which it is viewed. This can help the individual see the situation in a more positive or empowering light.
• Visualization: Visualization involves creating mental images of desired outcomes. By visualizing a positive outcome, a person can increase their motivation and confidence, and make the desired outcome more likely to occur.
• Meta-Modelling: The Meta-Model is a set of linguistic patterns that are used to clarify vague or ambiguous language, identify underlying assumptions, and challenge limiting beliefs.
• Swish pattern: This technique involves replacing an unwanted behaviour with a more desirable one by creating a visual image of the unwanted behaviour and then rapidly replacing it with an image of the desired behaviour.
• Timeline therapy: This technique involves revisiting past events to reframe negative experiences and create a more positive perspective on the past.
• Parts integration: This technique involves identifying and reconciling conflicting parts of the self that may be causing internal conflict or limiting beliefs. 

These are just a few examples of the many techniques used in NLP. The specific techniques used will depend on the individual's needs and the goals of the therapy or sessions. It's important to note that NLP is not a one-size-fits-all approach, and a skilled practitioner will use a tailored approach to best meet the individual's needs.

Is Neuro Linguistics Programming real?

Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) is a controversial topic in the field of psychology and psychotherapy. Some practitioners and proponents of NLP claim that it is a powerful tool for personal development and therapeutic change, while others are skeptical of its effectiveness and scientific basis.

There is some evidence to support the effectiveness of NLP in certain contexts, such as helping individuals overcome specific phobias or improve communication skills, other studies have found that NLP can be helpful in improving certain outcomes, while others have found no evidence of its effectiveness.

It may sound counterproductive for me to include statements that question the validity of NLP given  I am a certified NLP Practitioner however I truly believe in making an informed choice.

NLP can improve mindset by helping individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and beliefs that may be holding them back. By working with some of the NLP techniques, individuals can develop a more positive and empowered mindset, which can lead to greater success and fulfillment in all areas of life. I can vouch for that! Following my studies I certainly graduated with a broader perspective on my thoughts and approach to my life.