NLP: The Essential Guide to Neuro-Linguistic Programming 2016

Summary:

• NLP: The Essential Guide to Neuro-Linguistic Programming by Joseph OConnor & Ian McDermott is an introduction to the field of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP). NLP is a set of techniques and tools used to understand how people think, communicate, and interact with each other. It can be used in many different areas such as business, education, health care, relationships, sports performance and more. This book provides an overview of the history and development of NLP as well as its core principles. It also explains how it works and offers practical advice on using it effectively.

  The book begins by introducing readers to the concept of NLP. It explains what it is and why it has become so popular over the years. The authors then discuss some key concepts related to NLP including communication models, language patterns, sensory acuity exercises, reframing techniques and more. They explain how these concepts are applied in practice through case studies from various fields.

  The next section focuses on specific applications for NLP such as personal development or improving relationships with others. Here readers will learn about goal setting strategies that help them achieve their desired outcomes; they will also find out about ways to improve their communication skills so that they can better connect with those around them.

  In addition to providing information on applying NLP in everyday life situations, this book also covers topics like hypnosis and self-hypnosis which are closely related disciplines that use similar methods but have different goals. Finally there is a chapter dedicated entirely to resources where readers can find further information about this fascinating subject.

  Overall this book provides an excellent introduction into the world of Neuro-Linguistic Programming for both beginners who want a basic understanding or experienced practitioners looking for new ideas or tips on how best utilize this powerful toolset.

Main ideas:

• #1.     Introduction to NLP: Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) is a set of tools and techniques used to understand and influence behavior and communication. It is based on the idea that the language we use and the way we think are connected, and that by understanding this connection, we can use language to influence our own and others’ behavior.
  
  

  NLP is a powerful tool for understanding and influencing behavior. It can be used to help people become more effective communicators, better problem solvers, and more successful in their personal and professional lives. NLP focuses on the connection between language, thought processes, and behavior. By recognizing patterns of communication that are associated with certain behaviors or outcomes, we can use language to influence our own thoughts and actions as well as those of others.

  At its core, NLP is about understanding how the mind works so that we can use it to our advantage. It involves learning how to recognize patterns in language that indicate underlying beliefs or values which may be driving someone’s behavior. Once these patterns have been identified they can then be changed or modified in order to create desired results.

  NLP also teaches us how to communicate effectively by using specific techniques such as reframing statements into positive ones; mirroring body language; asking open-ended questions; listening actively; providing feedback without judgement; being aware of nonverbal cues such as facial expressions and tone of voice; setting clear boundaries when communicating with others; using humor appropriately etc.

  In short, NLP provides an invaluable set of tools for improving communication skills both personally and professionally. With practice anyone can learn how to use these tools effectively in order to achieve greater success in life.

• #2.     Representational Systems: Representational systems are the ways in which we process information. NLP uses these systems to understand how people think and communicate, and to influence their behavior.
  
  

  Representational systems are the ways in which we process information. They include visual, auditory, kinesthetic (feeling), olfactory (smell) and gustatory (taste). NLP uses these systems to understand how people think and communicate, and to influence their behavior. By understanding how someone processes information through their representational system of choice, it is possible to tailor communication so that it resonates with them more effectively.

  For example, if someone prefers a visual representation of information they may respond better when presented with diagrams or pictures rather than words alone. Similarly, an auditory person may prefer verbal explanations over written ones. Knowing what type of representational system someone prefers can help you create messages that will be more easily understood by them.

  NLP also looks at the way different representational systems interact with each other. For instance, some people use all five senses when processing information while others rely heavily on one or two particular senses. Understanding this can help you craft your message in such a way as to make sure it reaches its intended audience.

• #3.     Submodalities: Submodalities are the finer details of our representational systems. NLP uses these to understand how people think and communicate, and to influence their behavior.
  
  

  Submodalities are the finer details of our representational systems. They refer to the qualities and characteristics that make up our internal representations, such as size, brightness, location in space, distance from us or others, speed of movement and so on. NLP uses these submodalities to understand how people think and communicate with each other. By understanding how someones thoughts are structured we can gain insight into their behavior and motivations.

  NLP also uses submodalities to influence behavior by changing a persons internal representation of an experience or event. For example, if someone has a negative memory associated with public speaking they may be able to reduce its intensity by making it smaller in their mind’s eye or moving it further away from them. This technique is known as ‘reframing’ and can help people overcome fears or phobias.

  Submodalities are powerful tools for understanding ourselves better and influencing our own behavior as well as that of others. By learning more about them we can become more aware of how we think about things which will enable us to make positive changes in our lives.

• #4.     Anchoring: Anchoring is a technique used to create a positive emotional state in a person. It involves associating a positive emotion with a physical stimulus, such as a touch or a sound.
  
  

  Anchoring is a powerful tool used in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) to create positive emotional states. It involves associating a physical stimulus, such as a touch or sound, with an emotion. This technique can be used to help people access and maintain positive emotions when they need them most. For example, if someone is feeling anxious before giving a presentation, they could use anchoring to associate the feeling of calmness with the sound of their own voice saying “I am confident”.

  The process of anchoring begins by creating an anchor point – this could be anything from touching your thumb and forefinger together to making a specific gesture or even repeating certain words out loud. Once you have established your anchor point, it’s time to link it up with the desired emotion. To do this you must first bring yourself into that state – for instance if you want to feel more confident then think about times when you felt really good about yourself and focus on those feelings.

  Once you are in that state of mind then activate your anchor point while focusing on those feelings until they become associated with each other. You can test whether it has worked by activating the anchor again and seeing if the same emotion comes back quickly and easily.

  Anchoring is an incredibly useful tool for anyone looking to improve their emotional wellbeing or performance levels in any area of life. By linking physical stimuli with positive emotions we can tap into these resources whenever we need them most.

• #5.     Reframing: Reframing is a technique used to change the way a person perceives a situation. It involves changing the context of a situation, or the way it is framed, in order to change the way a person responds to it.
  
  

  Reframing is a powerful tool for changing the way we think about and respond to situations. By reframing, we can shift our perspective on an issue or problem, allowing us to see it in a new light and come up with creative solutions. Reframing involves looking at the same situation from different angles, exploring alternative interpretations of events, and considering how different people might view the same situation differently.

  For example, if you are feeling overwhelmed by a task that seems too difficult to complete, reframing could help you break down the task into smaller steps that seem more manageable. Or if you feel like your efforts have been unappreciated by someone else, reframing could help you look at their behavior from another point of view – perhaps they were just having a bad day or didn’t understand what was expected of them.

  Reframing can also be used as part of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP). NLP is based on the idea that language has power over our thoughts and feelings; therefore by changing our language patterns we can change how we perceive things. Through reframing techniques such as “reframe questions” or “reframe statements” we can alter our internal dialogue so that it reflects more positive thinking patterns.

  In summary, reframing is an effective technique for shifting perspectives and finding creative solutions to problems. It allows us to explore alternative interpretations of events while considering how others may view them differently. Additionally, when used in conjunction with NLP techniques such as “reframe questions” or “reframe statements” it helps us create more positive thought patterns which ultimately lead to better outcomes.

• #6.     Strategies: Strategies are the mental processes we use to achieve a goal. NLP uses strategies to understand how people think and communicate, and to influence their behavior.
  
  

  Strategies are the mental processes we use to achieve a goal. NLP is an effective tool for understanding how people think and communicate, and for influencing their behavior. It helps us identify patterns in our thinking that can be used to create positive change. By recognizing these patterns, we can develop strategies that will help us reach our goals more effectively.

  NLP uses techniques such as modeling, reframing, anchoring and chunking to understand how people process information and make decisions. Through this understanding of human behavior, NLP practitioners can develop strategies that will enable them to influence others in a positive way. For example, by using reframing techniques they can help someone see a situation from another perspective or by using anchoring they can help someone stay focused on achieving their goals.

  By developing effective strategies with NLP tools, individuals are able to better manage their thoughts and emotions so they can take action towards reaching their desired outcomes. This allows them to become more successful in whatever endeavor they choose – whether it’s personal development or professional success.

• #7.     Beliefs: Beliefs are the ideas and values we hold about ourselves and the world. NLP uses beliefs to understand how people think and communicate, and to influence their behavior.
  
  

  Beliefs are powerful forces that shape our lives. They influence how we think, feel, and act in the world. NLP recognizes this power and uses it to help people understand their own beliefs and those of others. By understanding these beliefs, we can better communicate with each other and create positive change in our lives.

  NLP helps us identify our core beliefs about ourselves, the world around us, and how we interact with it. It also teaches us how to recognize when a belief is limiting or unhelpful so that we can replace it with something more empowering or constructive. Through this process of self-discovery, NLP enables us to gain greater insight into ourselves as well as others.

  By recognizing the power of beliefs in shaping behavior, NLP provides an effective tool for influencing people’s thoughts and actions. This makes it a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve communication skills or make lasting changes in their life.

• #8.     Values: Values are the things we consider important in life. NLP uses values to understand how people think and communicate, and to influence their behavior.
  
  

  Values are the core beliefs and principles that guide our behavior. They shape how we think, feel, and act in any given situation. NLP uses values to understand how people think and communicate, as well as to influence their behavior. By understanding a persons values, it is possible to identify what motivates them and use this knowledge to help them achieve their goals.

  NLP practitioners can also use values-based language patterns when communicating with others. This involves using words or phrases that evoke positive emotions associated with certain values in order to encourage desired behaviors or outcomes. For example, if someone wants another person to take action on something they have been procrastinating on, they could phrase it in terms of the value of achievement by saying “You’ll be proud of yourself once you finish this task!”

  By recognizing the importance of values in communication and decision making processes, NLP provides an effective way for individuals and organizations alike to better understand themselves and those around them.

• #9.     Metaphors: Metaphors are stories or images used to convey a message. NLP uses metaphors to understand how people think and communicate, and to influence their behavior.
  
  

  Metaphors are powerful tools for understanding and influencing the way people think, feel, and act. By using metaphors to convey a message or idea, we can help others to better understand our point of view. NLP uses metaphors as a way to gain insight into how people communicate with each other and how they interpret their environment. Through metaphor-based communication, NLP practitioners can identify patterns in language that reveal underlying beliefs and values.

  NLP also uses metaphors as a tool for changing behavior. By creating stories or images that represent desired behaviors or outcomes, practitioners can help individuals reframe their thinking in order to achieve those goals. For example, if someone is struggling with procrastination, an NLP practitioner might create a metaphor about taking action now rather than waiting until later – such as “the early bird catches the worm” – which could motivate them to take action sooner rather than later.

  Ultimately, by utilizing metaphors effectively through Neuro-Linguistic Programming techniques, practitioners can help individuals gain greater self-awareness and make positive changes in their lives.

• #10.     Outcome Thinking: Outcome thinking is a technique used to set and achieve goals. It involves setting a goal and then breaking it down into smaller, achievable steps.
  
  

  Outcome Thinking is a powerful technique used to set and achieve goals. It involves setting a goal, then breaking it down into smaller, achievable steps. This helps to ensure that the goal can be achieved in an efficient manner by focusing on each step along the way. Outcome Thinking also encourages creative problem solving and allows for flexibility when unexpected obstacles arise.

  The process of Outcome Thinking begins with defining what success looks like for your particular goal. Once you have identified this outcome, you can begin to break it down into smaller components or tasks that need to be completed in order to reach your desired result. By taking these individual tasks one at a time, you are able to focus on each step without getting overwhelmed by the entire project.

  Outcome Thinking also encourages creativity and innovation as you work towards achieving your goals. As new challenges arise during the process, this technique allows for flexibility so that solutions can be found quickly and efficiently without having to start from scratch again.

  Overall, Outcome Thinking is an effective tool for setting and achieving goals in any area of life. By breaking down larger objectives into manageable chunks, it makes them easier to accomplish while still allowing room for creativity and innovation throughout the journey.

• #11.     Rapport: Rapport is a technique used to build trust and understanding between two people. It involves mirroring the other person’s body language and speaking in a similar way.
  
  

  Rapport is an important tool for building relationships and creating a sense of connection between two people. It involves mirroring the other person’s body language, such as posture, gestures, facial expressions and tone of voice. This helps to create a feeling of understanding and trust between the two individuals. Additionally, it can be helpful to use similar words or phrases when speaking with someone in order to further build rapport.

  When attempting to establish rapport with another person, it is important to remain aware of their reactions and adjust your behavior accordingly. If they seem uncomfortable or unresponsive then you should take this into account and modify your approach accordingly. Additionally, it is important not to overdo it; too much mirroring can come across as insincere or even creepy!

  Rapport is an invaluable skill that can help you build strong relationships with others quickly and effectively. With practice you will become more adept at reading people’s body language cues so that you can better understand how best to interact with them in order to create a positive connection.

• #12.     Language Patterns: Language patterns are the words and phrases we use to communicate. NLP uses language patterns to understand how people think and communicate, and to influence their behavior.
  
  

  Language patterns are an important part of communication. They provide the structure and context for our conversations, allowing us to express ourselves in a meaningful way. NLP uses language patterns to understand how people think and communicate, as well as to influence their behavior. By analyzing language patterns, NLP practitioners can identify underlying beliefs and values that may be influencing someones decisions or actions.

  NLP also looks at the use of metaphors and stories in communication. Metaphors allow us to explain complex concepts in simple terms, while stories help us make sense of our experiences by providing a narrative framework for understanding them. Through careful analysis of these language patterns, NLP practitioners can gain insight into how people think about certain topics or situations.

  Finally, NLP looks at the use of non-verbal cues such as body language and facial expressions when communicating with others. These subtle signals often reveal more than words alone can convey about what someone is thinking or feeling. By paying attention to these cues during conversations, we can better understand what another person is trying to say.

• #13.     Eye Accessing Cues: Eye accessing cues are the movements of the eyes that indicate how a person is thinking. NLP uses these cues to understand how people think and communicate, and to influence their behavior.
  
  

  Eye accessing cues are an important part of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP). They refer to the movements of the eyes that indicate how a person is thinking. By observing these cues, NLP practitioners can gain insight into how people think and communicate, as well as influence their behavior.

  The eye accessing cues theory suggests that when we think about something, our eyes move in certain directions depending on what type of thought process we are engaging in. For example, if someone is recalling a memory from the past they may look up to their left; whereas if they are imagining something or creating a mental picture they may look up to their right. Similarly, looking down and to either side indicates internal dialogue or self-talk.

  By understanding these patterns of eye movement it is possible for NLP practitioners to identify which type of thought process someone is engaging in at any given moment. This knowledge can then be used to help them better understand how people think and communicate, as well as influence their behavior.

• #14.     Subconscious Communication: Subconscious communication is the communication that takes place between two people without them being aware of it. NLP uses this to understand how people think and communicate, and to influence their behavior.
  
  

  Subconscious communication is a powerful tool that can be used to understand how people think and communicate, as well as influence their behavior. It involves the exchange of non-verbal cues between two people without them being aware of it. This type of communication can take place through body language, facial expressions, eye contact, tone of voice and other subtle signals. By understanding these signals we can gain insight into what someone is really thinking or feeling.

  NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) uses this form of communication to help us better understand ourselves and others. Through NLP techniques such as mirroring and matching we are able to pick up on the subtle cues that our subconscious mind sends out in order to create rapport with another person. We can also use NLP techniques to identify patterns in our own behavior so that we can make changes if necessary.

  By learning more about subconscious communication we are able to become more effective communicators and build stronger relationships with those around us. With practice, anyone can learn how to recognize these subtle signals and use them for their benefit.

• #15.     Time Line Therapy: Time Line Therapy is a technique used to help people let go of negative emotions and beliefs. It involves visualizing a timeline of events and then changing the way the person perceives them.
  
  

  Time Line Therapy is a powerful technique used to help people let go of negative emotions and beliefs. It involves visualizing a timeline of events in the past, present, and future, and then changing the way the person perceives them. The goal is to create new perspectives on old experiences that can lead to more positive feelings about oneself.

  The process begins by having the client identify any negative emotions or limiting beliefs they may have. Once these are identified, they are asked to visualize their life as if it were a timeline stretching from birth until now. They will be guided through this visualization process so that they can see how each event has impacted their current state of being.

  Once this visualization is complete, Time Line Therapy helps clients reframe those events in order to gain insight into why certain patterns exist in their lives today. This allows them to make conscious decisions about how they want their future timelines to look like instead of repeating old patterns over again.

  Finally, once new perspectives have been gained and changes made accordingly, clients are encouraged to use affirmations or other techniques such as hypnosis or meditation for further reinforcement. By doing so, individuals can begin creating healthier relationships with themselves and others while also achieving greater success in all areas of life.

• #16.     Parts Integration: Parts integration is a technique used to help people resolve inner conflicts. It involves identifying the different parts of the person and then helping them to work together.
  
  

  Parts integration is a powerful tool for helping people to resolve inner conflicts. It involves recognizing the different parts of the person and then working with them to create harmony and balance. The idea behind this technique is that each part of us has its own needs, wants, values, beliefs, and motivations. By understanding these different aspects of ourselves we can begin to work together in order to achieve our goals.

  The process begins by identifying all the different parts within us – such as our conscious mind, unconscious mind, emotions, body sensations etc. Once these have been identified it’s important to understand how they interact with one another and what their individual needs are. This helps us gain insight into why certain behaviours or reactions occur when faced with particular situations.

  Once we have an understanding of our various parts we can start integrating them together so that they work harmoniously towards achieving our desired outcome. This may involve using techniques such as visualisation or affirmations in order to help bring about change on a subconscious level. Ultimately this process allows us to become more aware of ourselves and make better decisions based on what will benefit all aspects of who we are.

• #17.     Hypnosis: Hypnosis is a technique used to induce a trance-like state in a person. NLP uses hypnosis to understand how people think and communicate, and to influence their behavior.
  
  

  Hypnosis is a powerful tool used to induce an altered state of consciousness in which the subject is more open to suggestion. It has been used for centuries as a way to access the subconscious mind and make changes at a deep level. NLP uses hypnosis as part of its approach, allowing practitioners to understand how people think and communicate, and influence their behavior.

  NLP practitioners use hypnosis techniques such as guided imagery, visualization, relaxation exercises, and positive affirmations to help clients achieve desired outcomes. Through these methods they can gain insight into how someones thoughts are structured and what beliefs or patterns may be holding them back from achieving their goals. By helping individuals identify these patterns they can then work on changing them so that new behaviors become easier.

  Hypnosis also allows practitioners to bypass conscious resistance by accessing the unconscious mind directly. This means that even if someone is resistant or skeptical about making changes in their life they can still benefit from NLP techniques because it works with both conscious and unconscious levels of awareness.

• #18.     Modeling: Modeling is a technique used to learn from successful people. It involves observing and replicating the behavior of successful people in order to achieve similar results.
  
  

  Modeling is a powerful technique used in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) to learn from successful people. It involves observing and replicating the behavior of successful people in order to achieve similar results. This can be done by studying their habits, attitudes, beliefs, values and strategies for success. By understanding how they think and act, we can then apply these same principles to our own lives.

  The goal of modeling is not just to copy someone else’s behavior but rather to understand it so that you can use it as a model for your own life. You may find that certain aspects of the person’s approach are more effective than others or that some parts don’t work at all for you – this is where experimentation comes into play. Through trial and error you will eventually discover what works best for you.

  Modeling has been used successfully by many individuals throughout history including athletes, entrepreneurs, artists and scientists who have achieved great success through learning from those who came before them. With NLP techniques such as modeling, anyone can gain insight into how successful people think and act so they too can reach their goals.

• #19.     Change Personal History: Change personal history is a technique used to help people let go of negative experiences from the past. It involves changing the way a person perceives the past in order to create a more positive future.
  
  

  Change personal history is a powerful technique used to help people move on from negative experiences in the past. It involves reframing how we perceive our past, so that it no longer has a hold over us and instead can be seen as an opportunity for growth. By changing our perspective of the past, we can create a more positive future.

  The process begins by identifying any negative beliefs or emotions associated with certain events in our lives. We then challenge these beliefs and replace them with new ones that are more empowering and supportive. This helps us to let go of any feelings of guilt or regret, allowing us to focus on creating a better future.

  Once we have identified and challenged our old beliefs, we can begin to create new stories about ourselves based on what we want rather than what happened in the past. This allows us to take control of our narrative and shape it into something that serves us better going forward.

  By using change personal history techniques, we can free ourselves from the shackles of the past and start living life with greater purpose and intention. With this newfound freedom comes increased confidence, resilience, creativity – all essential ingredients for success.

• #20.     New Behavior Generator: The new behavior generator is a technique used to create new behaviors. It involves identifying the desired behavior and then breaking it down into smaller, achievable steps.
  
  

  The New Behavior Generator is a powerful tool for creating new behaviors. It involves breaking down the desired behavior into smaller, achievable steps that can be taken to reach the goal. This technique allows us to focus on one step at a time and build up our skills gradually until we have achieved our desired outcome.

  To use this technique, first identify the behavior you want to create or change. Then break it down into small, manageable chunks that are easy to understand and complete. For example, if you wanted to learn how to play guitar, your first step might be learning some basic chords; then you could move onto more complex techniques such as strumming patterns or fingerpicking exercises.

  Once each step has been identified and broken down into smaller tasks, its important to practice them regularly in order for them become habits. As these habits become ingrained in your mind and body they will eventually lead towards achieving your overall goal of mastering the guitar.

  The New Behavior Generator is an effective way of creating new behaviors because it helps us focus on one task at a time rather than trying to tackle everything all at once. By taking small steps towards our goals we can make steady progress without becoming overwhelmed by too much information or feeling discouraged when things dont go as planned.