Knowing Self Through NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming)

How NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming) works?

Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) is a highly positive resource that should only ever be used in an ethical manner to brainwash individuals to reach the best version of themselves.

In the early 1970’s in California,Richard Bandler and Dr John Grinder studied people deemed to have excellent communication skills as they believed that there was a connection between the neurological processes, language and behaviors and that through programming, individuals can amend or change their thoughts and behaviors so to achieve designated goals.

Although NLP has its roots firmly embedded in a therapeutic setting, there is a need to draw upon the linguistic skills which are required for good communication on a daily basis.Studies show that NLP can be successfully used in every walk of life and used in a way to transform themselves and others.

NLP is used by a vast array of professional people including salespeople, life coaches, teachers, managers, doctors etc. Everyone who learns the techniques and utilizes them regularly, will refine them in their own style and also learn to communicate in their own way.

Although some will say that NLP can be used unethically, this is certainly not the way that NLP was designed. In the main however, we all influence others and we do this very naturally. Therefore, the whole ethos of NLP is to use these newly-developed skills with integrity. One way to find out if you are using NLP in an ethical manner is to consider whether your intent will benefit another person or whether the benefit is to you alone.

There are four pillars i.e. the foundations of NLP including:
1) Rapport

Rapport is an essential part of everyday life. It is all about building relationships with others and is perhaps one of the most well-known elements of NLP.

2) Sensory awareness

Sensory awareness is important. When you use your senses correctly, you become aware of all around you.

3) Outcome thinking

In NLP, this term relates to your thinking about what you want to achieve. It affords you the principles leading toward a designated outcome and helps you to make better decisions.

4) Behavioral flexibility

This simply means being adaptive in life, learning to take a different approach if the
methodology you are using is not working.

The terminology may be different to expressions,you will see the term ‘the map is not the territory’ expressed in a great deal in NLP. It simply means that each person has a unique map or perspective of how they view the world around them and how it operates. If you consider that two people can face exactly the same situation and yet perceive it differently due to their own personal experiences and learning, this equals their personal maps.

NLP is nothing strange or magical,it cannot change the world around you. All it can do or does effectively, is to help you to change the way you personally observe and ultimately, perceive your world. It affords you the possibility of building a new map with far greater details which can be far more effective on a day-to-day basis. Equally, it affords you an understanding of the patterns of behavior that others may use so you can connect with them.

Through NLP people realize that failed communications are often a result of their inability to not notice or to appreciate the views of others.They believe solely in their own reality which can be correct or faulty depending on their life experiences. With clarity, people are able to develop a new map and where aspects are less than accurate, adapt, simply by changing their way of thinking. So life generally improves. Therefore, NLP actually increases your options in life enabling you to be far more open so that you can question or even challenge your beliefs.

It’s true that some spend too much time focusing on negativity, but if the
mind can be programmed to instead focus on all that is positive, change and positive results can be achieved rapidly.

Of course, the responsibility to change lives is down to the individual. If when you are reading this and you are closed to the prospect of change, you will not maximize your potential. It is as simple as that. In the same way, if you are reaching out to others, helping them to change, and they are closed, progress will not be made.