What is NLP?
Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) is how to use the language of the mind to consistently achieve our specific outcomes.
Neuro represents the nervous system through which our experiences are processed by our five sense (sight, hearing, feeling, smell and taste).
Linguistic is the language, both verbal and non verbal, through which our neural experience is given meaning.
Programming represents the ability to understand the programmes we run and adapt them to achieve our desired outcomes.
This is perhaps the technical description, but what does it really mean, what does it mean in practice? Well its about having an attitude of curiosity and a methodology which lead to a trail of techniques which can help us achieve the life we want.
Elements of NLP include:
- Representation systems - understanding how we and others represent our worlds, and and so allowing us to talk to others in a way they will most easily understand.
- Values - understanding our values in different areas of our lives, whether they serve us, and adjusting them if required.
- Strategies - understanding the strategies we use, and how we use them, and also those other people use, so we can communicate better with them.
- Anchoring - anchoring successful states so that we can access them when we need them
In addition to traditional NLP techniques, I also use a technique called Timeline Therapy, which was developed by Tad James (detailed information can be found at the Timeline Therapy Association, timelinetherapy.net), which is a straightforward and effective way of releasing limiting beliefs and inappropriate emotional reactions.
"It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye."
Antoine de Saint-Expuery.
