Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP)

What's it all about?

I’m a Language and Behavior Consultant/Coach, utilizing Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) as the primary technology to help people get what they want quickly. I decided to write this article to give you a brief introduction to NLP, share some of the benefits and keep it simple. 

First things first…How can NLP help you? 

• Skill development: You can learn new skills at a rapid pace. 

• Personal development and behavioral changes: You can learn how to “get out of your own way” and get the results you want. 

• Communication: You can improve rapport skills and communicate more effectively with others, as well as with yourself. 

What is Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP)? 

NLP is a learning technology. “Neuro” refers to the brain and what we do with our minds. “Linguistic” is verbal and non-verbal language that we use to organize and communicate our thoughts. “Programming” is the unique way in which each individual combines these factors to produce behaviors and patterns. 

The foundation of NLP is curiosity and fascination about people. How do we do what we do? How do we think? How do we learn? How do we get angry? How do outstanding people in any field achieve their results? To answer these questions, NLP explores how we think and feel and studies “models” of excellence in every walk of life.  

There are four main principles in NLP: 

· Relationship

· Behavioral Flexibility 

· Knowing what you want 

· Sensory Awareness.

This article will briefly examine the first principle-Relationship, specifically, the qualities of mutual trust and responsiveness known as rapport. It can be applied to your relationship with yourself, as well as your relationship with others. We hear much about the mind/body connection and what a powerful impact we can enjoy by having the two in rapport. Internal conflicts can create external conflicts and the quality of the rapport we have with our selves is often a mirror of what we achieve with others.  

The first principle of NLP is to establish rapport with yourself and then with others. Consider the rapport you have with yourself. You have probably felt torn between two courses of action at some time in your life.  Have you ever heard yourself say things like, “I’m confused, part of me wants to do this, but another part of me wants to do that”? “I feel stuck”. Well, I invite you to take note of your internal dialogue.  How are you speaking to yourself?  Are you a supportive and encouraging coach, or a critical and demanding tyrant?  The results might surprise you! Would you talk to someone else the way you’re talking to yourself? Think about how changing your internal tone of voice can benefit you, THEN, DO IT! 

When you become AWARE of your thoughts and behaviors and the impact they have on your life, you become empowered. You can then realize what options are available and decide whether or not to utilize them.  By cultivating a better rapport with yourself, you enhance your personal and professional relationships, and improve your overall well-being.  

The Princeton Center for NLP offers Personal Coaching for individuals, couples and families. Their staff is highly trained in the area of Neuro Linguistic Programming, which is widely known to effect rapid long lasting change. They also offer corporations, small businesses and executives in-house training and coaching.  Programs can be designed to meet clients’ specific needs. Their mission is to help individuals discover and utilize the resources they need to develop a greater sense of fulfillment and self-acceptance.