What is NLP?

NLP or Neuro Linguistic Programming is the science of how the brain codes learning and experience. It is an exceptionally powerful tool that both describes how we get into certain patterns of behaviour, and the most effective way to change those patterns. NLP begins by observing the real world relationships between how we think, communicate, and behave, then uses this knowledge to help us effectively adopt far more successful models of human excellence.

The name itself, Neuro Linguistic Programming, refers to the three major components whose powerful combination allow these behavioural patterns to be examined and transformed:

  • Neuro – the notion that any individual’s behaviour is determined first of all at a physiological level, by what is taken in by the senses (visual, auditory, kinaesthetic, olfactory, and gustatory) and processed by the brain. Each person filters and sorts the information differently according to who we are at the neurological level, which then influences what we do with that information.
  • Linguistic – the use of language as a tool for categorising and comparing thoughts, and for communicating with others, with the understanding that ‘language’ also extends to non-verbal language, such as body language. Adopting certain principles and techniques associated with how we use language allows us to improve how we interact with and influence the world around us.
  • Programming – patterns of how we organise ideas and actions, as well as behavioural patterns. Once a pattern has been learned, it will remain in use until another pattern is learned.

A key aspect of NLP is modelling. Modelling was part of the historical basis for NLP, which began in the 1970’s. Working from the specific cases of the highly successful therapists Fritz Perls, Virginia Satir and Milton Erickson, NLP originators Richard Bandler and John Grinder extracted the fundamentals of what made these people so expert in their work. NLP incorporates insights from behavioural and Gestalt psychology, family therapy, hypnotherapy, linguistics, and information theory among others.

In summary, NLP is like an “Owners Manual” for the brain – it is a powerful coaching tool that transforms the way people think and act to have the greatest impact both professionally and personally across all aspects of business and personal performance. Alison Jardie is a Master Practitioner in NLP and integrates many NLP techniques in her coaching, facilitation and consulting – sometimes subtly, sometimes explicitly - to optimise the results for you. Contact Leadership Evolution on 0400 340 171 to discuss how NLP applies to you.