NLP: The Tools For Change & Growth

Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) is a psychological approach that involves analysing strategies used by successful individuals and applying them to reach a personal goal, NLP professionals call this process of exploring success in others “modelling”. 

NLP modelling investigates and notes patterns in thoughts through detailed interviews, use of language, and observable behaviour that successful individuals have naturally developed through personal experience etc, leading to a specific usually positive outcome for that individual being modelled (Grinder & Bandler, 1976)¹. These models are then delivered in training seminars, and workshops and written up in books, articles etc. 

It is important to understand, NLP is NOT based on an underlying theory, rather it is based on ‘modelling’ what works rather than a single ‘theory’.  

A model is a description of how something works, without any commitment regarding why it might be that way.

This article explores the role of NLP in personal development and coaching, we take a brief look at some of the research and evidence of its positive effects in developing human potential, and its function in enabling client success, lastly we answer the question of what so many people say, NLP: The Tools For Change & Growth. 

NLP in Personal Development

NLP is considered a significant tool in personal development, where it helps individuals change and improve their behaviour, beliefs, and self-awareness. By modelling strategies of successful individuals, a person can enhance their skills, communication, and overall performance (Druckman & Swets, 1988)².

As an example, a notable NLP technique is the ‘ NLP anchoring‘ technique, which facilitates the activation of personal resources in challenging situations. In one study, it was found that this technique positively affected personal development by improving emotional control and behavioural effectiveness (Hossack & Standidge, 1993)³.

NLP in Coaching

Coaching with NLP can be powerful as it creates a framework for understanding and influencing human experience and behaviour (Bachkirova, Spence, & Drake, 2016)⁴. The application of NLP in coaching allows the coach to understand and use the client’s internal experience (including beliefs, values, strategies, and representational systems) to facilitate change.

NLP can be utilized in various coaching forms, including life coaching, business coaching, and sports coaching. Each context may use different NLP techniques but the ultimate goal remains the same: to facilitate behavioural and cognitive change that leads to improved performance and satisfaction (Dilts, 2000)⁵.

Research and Evidence on NLP’s Positive Effects

Several research studies have provided evidence of NLP’s positive impact on human potential development. For instance, a study by Einspruch and Forman (1985) found that NLP therapy resulted in faster progress and lasting improvements in clients compared to traditional psychotherapy⁶.

Moreover, a meta-analysis by Sturt et al. (2012) found that NLP interventions effectively improved mental health outcomes. It was particularly effective in reducing depression, anxiety, and subjective well-being⁷.

In the field of education, NLP techniques have also been found to enhance learning and performance. A study by Mohamad et al. (2014) showed that the application of NLP techniques in teaching helped students develop better study habits and improved academic performance⁸.

NLP Within Coaching Enabling Client Success

NLP within coaching promotes client success by providing a practical framework for setting and achieving goals. The ‘well-formed outcomes’ tool, a fundamental NLP technique, helps clients clarify their goals, consider their implications, and make a practical plan to achieve them (Dilts, 2000)⁵.

In addition, NLP techniques such as ‘reframing’ help clients view their challenges from different perspectives, thereby enabling creative problem-solving and overcoming barriers to success (Bandler & Grinder, 1979)⁹.

Research and Personal Experience

Research into the effectiveness of NLP interventions is growing fast with academic research studies taking place in many countries.  While this is noteworthy work, the real evidence of NLP’s usefulness is the positive and often life-changing experience of clients that have worked with professional NLP Practitioners.

I can say from my personal life that NLP is a powerful set of tools for use in personal development, coaching, organisational change, leadership development and more, in short, it’s a set of models, concepts and a philosophy that can significantly enhance human potential.

I am not alone, the ANLP have a very informative set of Case Studies showing just how useful and powerful NLP techniques can be in improving individual lives¹⁰.

It offers effective techniques for improving performance, achieving goals, and overcoming challenges. Research and evidence indicate that NLP can have a positive impact on personal development, coaching outcomes, and overall success.

By equipping clients with tools to reframe their experiences and to set achievable goals, NLP practitioners facilitate change, thereby enabling client success. Therefore, I believe NLP serves as an essential instrument for change in the dynamic field of personal development and coaching.

References

1. Grinder, J., & Bandler, R. (1976). The Structure of Magic: A Book about Language and Therapy. Science and Behavior Books.

2. Druckman, D., & Swets, J. A. (Eds.). (1988). Enhancing human performance: Issues, theories, and techniques. National Academy Press.

3. Hossack, A., & Standidge, K. (1993). Using an NLP technique to help pupils control their emotions. British Journal of Guidance & Counselling, 21(2), 198-206.

4. Bachkirova, T., Spence, G., & Drake, D. (2016). The SAGE Handbook of Coaching. SAGE.

5. Dilts, R. (2000). Skills for the future: Managing creativity and innovation. Meta Publications. 

6. Einspruch, E. L., & Forman, B. D. (1985). Observations concerning research literature on Neuro-Linguistic Programming. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 32(4), 589.

7. Sturt, J., Ali, S., Robertson, W., Metcalfe, D., Grove, A., Bourne, C., & Bridle, C. (2012). Neurolinguistic programming: a systematic review of the effects on health outcomes. British Journal of General Practice, 62(604), e757-e764.

8. Mohamad, M. M., Sulaiman, N. L., Sern, L. C., & Salleh, K. M. (2014). Measuring the Validity and Reliability of Research Instruments. Procedia – Social and Behavioral Sciences, 204, 164-171.

9. Bandler, R., & Grinder, J. (1979). Frogs into princes: Neuro Linguistic Programming. Real People Press.

10. ANLP – Association For NLP – Case Studies – https://anlp.org/case-studies