How to Use Neuro Linguistic Programming to Improve Your Life
Neuro linguistic programming is a system intended to improve life by enabling people to make the life changes they want. NLP uses guided imagery, sensory awareness and other means to help individuals stop smoking, overcome stage fright, improve performance at work and much more. An outgrowth of the human potential movement popular in the '70s, NPL still thrives through Web sites, books and certified practitioners.
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Instructions
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Consult the Experts on the Use of Neuro Linguistic Programming
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Search the Web for facts about NLP. The "NLP Basics" page of the John David Hoag NLP Web site is a great place to start (see Resources below).
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Read about the specific aspects and techniques of NLP, including meta modeling, representational systems and behavior modeling.
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Match the information you find with the specific changes you want to make in your life.
Apply Neuro Linguistic Programming to Your Own Life
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Test out the NLP methodology with a common routine called "The Swish."
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Identify an unwanted behavior (such as flying off the handle over small things) or state of mind (anxiety in a specific situation) that you wish to change.
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Select a "replacement image." In other words, picture as vividly as possible what you would rather do or feel.
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Play with this image. Practice altering it by mentally changing its size, shape, color or distance.
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Picture yourself in the unwanted situation. What is the "trigger" for these actions or feelings? In other words, what usually happens just before the unwanted behavior?
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Keep the negative picture large in your mind, and mentally put a small version of the replacement image in one corner.
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Switch the two images, making the replacement large and the unwanted image small.
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Imagine the unwanted image flying off to one side with a "swish" sound.
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Clear your mind and breathe naturally.
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Repeat the "Swish" exercise until the unwanted image fades. It is suggested that you usually practice this about 7 to 10 times
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Learn more about the swish at the Speak Like a Pro Web site (see Resources below).
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Evaluate the "Swish" experience. Could you visualize fairly easily? Did the exercise seem to help you? If so, then further investigation into the use of NLP to improve your life is warranted.
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Tips & Warnings
Study up on exactly what NLP has to offer and what it can and cannot do, so that you can use it wisely and not waste time and effort.
Using NLP techniques from a book or Web site is free, but working one-on-one with an NLP coach can be moderately priced to expensive. However, many people feel the expense of coaching is well worth it.
NPL methods are not intended to replace qualified medical care for severe illness or chronic conditions, such as arthritis pain or heart disease.
Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.
