What is Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP)?
The term Neuro-Linguistic Programming itself provides insight into its meaning:
- Neuro – Involves our thought processes and brain functions.
- Linguistic – Focuses on how we use and interpret language.
- Programming – Refers to the mental strategies we use to achieve specific outcomes.
The Core Concept of NLP
At its essence, NLP is a communication model—both internally and externally. It explores how we send, receive, and process messages, whether verbal or nonverbal. The way we interpret information influences our emotional states, which in turn shape our behaviors and results in life.
The Purpose of NLP Techniques
Unlike traditional psychology, which often seeks to analyze “why” things happen, NLP is results-driven. Its primary goal is to facilitate change by focusing on what works rather than just understanding the cause. This pragmatic approach has allowed NLP to evolve beyond what its co-founders, Richard Bandler and John Grinder, originally envisioned.
However, this flexibility has led to challenges, such as a lack of standardized regulation in the field. Over time, various interpretations of NLP have emerged, with some diverging significantly from its original principles.
Fundamental Beliefs in NLP
A core assumption in NLP is that people are not “broken”—they generate results based on how they perceive and interact with the world. This idea aligns with the well-known NLP principle:
“The map is not the territory.”
In other words, individuals respond not to reality itself but to their internal representation of reality. NLP techniques aim to consciously reshape these mental maps to create more effective behaviors and responses.
Key Components of NLP
NLP is based on several foundational models and techniques:
1. The Meta Model
The Meta Model is a language framework designed to uncover hidden assumptions, generalizations, and deletions in our communication. It helps bring unconscious patterns into awareness, enabling individuals to expand their understanding and choices.
2. The Milton Model
Inspired by hypnotherapist Milton Erickson, this model focuses on using vague and abstract language to bypass the conscious mind and directly engage the unconscious. Unlike the Meta Model, which seeks clarity, the Milton Model encourages indirect influence.
3. NLP Modeling
The foundation of NLP comes from observing and replicating the strategies of highly effective individuals, such as therapists Fritz Perls, Virginia Satir, and Milton Erickson. NLP modeling involves identifying the key elements of someone’s expertise and recreating their success patterns.
Some prominent contributors to NLP include:
- Steve Andreas – Author, trainer, and publisher in the NLP field.
- Robert Dilts – Influential NLP researcher and author.
- Tony Robbins – Renowned motivational speaker who integrated NLP principles into his coaching.
4. Representational Systems
We process experiences through our senses—sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell. NLP refers to these as representational systems, which shape how we store and recall memories.
5. Submodalities
Within each representational system, submodalities define the finer details (e.g., brightness, size, distance in visuals). These subtle distinctions influence how we emotionally react to experiences. By adjusting submodalities, NLP practitioners help people change their responses to situations.
6. NLP Strategies
A strategy in NLP is the mental sequence we follow to make decisions, solve problems, learn, or stay motivated. These sequences consist of images, sounds, feelings, internal dialogue, and other sensory inputs. By refining these strategies, individuals can enhance their effectiveness in different areas of life.
7. Meta Programs
Meta programs are habitual thinking patterns that guide perception and decision-making. These unconscious filters influence personality traits and behavior. Understanding meta programs allows individuals to adapt and communicate more effectively.
Additional NLP Concepts
- Congruence – Aligning thoughts, emotions, and behaviors for powerful communication.
- Stages of Learning – The process of skill acquisition and personal growth.
- Eye Accessing Cues – Observing eye movements to understand thought patterns.
Criticism of NLP
One of the major critiques of NLP is its lack of scientific validation. Unlike physical sciences, NLP deals with subjective human experiences, making it difficult to measure with traditional scientific methods. Critics argue that without empirical evidence, NLP lacks credibility. However, its effectiveness is often demonstrated in real-world applications, particularly in coaching, therapy, and business communication.
Final Thoughts
So, what is NLP? It is a system for understanding how we think, communicate, and change. By becoming aware of the way we construct thoughts and emotions, we can consciously reshape them to create more empowering behaviors and outcomes.