Two widely used NLP techniques that rely on threshold dynamics are the Compulsion Blowout and the Last Straw methods. These two operate in opposite directions: the Compulsion Blowout builds up positive sensations until the desire collapses, while the Last Straw method builds negative experiences to the point where you finally refuse to tolerate them any longer.
You may have heard the saying, “the straw that broke the camel’s back.” This refers to the idea that small things can accumulate until one final addition causes a complete shift. In real life, the 2008 financial crisis is a striking example of such a system collapse — where unchecked growth and systemic stress reached a breaking point.
How Thresholds Work
Thresholds are about reaching a critical point—after which change becomes inevitable or irreversible. Think of heating gravy on a stove. For a while, it seems like nothing is happening, but suddenly, it thickens. That final change can’t be undone just by turning off the heat—it has transformed into something new. This is the essence of a threshold moment.
In psychology and behavior, threshold points are often connected to internal chemical or neurological shifts. A helpful comparison is the Convincer Strategy: some people need repeated experiences or consistent evidence to finally become convinced of something. Once they do, they are in a completely different state of belief—one that takes a separate process to reverse.
Thresholds can develop naturally. For example, someone who continually overspends may eventually face a financial crisis that pushes them to change. My own daughter used to regularly max out her credit card until a serious situation finally motivated her to take control of her spending.
Thresholds: Helpful or Harmful?
Thresholds can serve both productive and destructive purposes. In some situations, you want to prevent someone from hitting a threshold—like noticing tension in a relationship before it explodes into conflict or separation. Other times, hitting a threshold can be empowering. Many people procrastinate until the pressure becomes unbearable—like a deadline—prompting them to finally take action. This kind of pressure builds through an “away-from” motivation: discomfort grows until you’re forced to move.
However, not every threshold leads to a permanent shift. Some systems are self-regulating. For instance, if the weather gets cold, you put on a sweater. When it warms up, you simply take it off again. These reversible thresholds are common in nature and in emotional regulation.
Understanding threshold patterns helps you recognize when to intervene early and when to leverage momentum to trigger change. Whether you’re working with compulsions, habits, or motivation, threshold-based strategies can help initiate lasting transformation.