To model exceptional
performance behavior requires observing and laying down the
underlying processes
inherent in that behavior. It requires breaking down a complex system or a
series of events into chunks small enough to be understood and reproduced.
The point is to
create a useful map or model of the behavior for the purpose of reproducing or
copying it by anyone who may want to. By identifying the individual elements
that make up the essence of the behavior, in a practical sense a person can
reproduce the desired response or outcome. The model must give a description of
the necessary thoughts and actions needed to achieve results that are similar.
The development of
Neuro-Linguistic Programming came about from the modeling of the thinking
processes and behaviors of humans. It starts with learning about and
understanding how the brain operates (neuro), and analyzing non-verbal and
verbal language patterns (linguistic).Then a sequential set of strategies or
programs (programming) teaches how to transfer the skills to others.
Richard Bandler began
to model particular language patterns and behaviors that he
observed from Fritz
Perls (Gestalt therapy founder) and Virginia Satir (one of the founders of
family therapy and systemic therapy), and, later, the founder of the American
Society of Clinical Hypnosis, Milton H. Erickson, M.D.
The initial
techniques of NLP came out of the language patterns and body gestures of
the very talented and
skillful therapists noted by Bandler and also observed by John Grinder, a
linguist who later teamed up with Bandler. The “magic” that these exceptional
therapists were able to achieve fit into a structure that could be understood,
transmitted through communication, and executed by ordinary people, not just
the master therapists who originated these triumphs. This became the foundation
for NLP.
Grinder observed
Bandler at work one day and noted how Bandler was able to influence people with
his use of language. Grinder had a sense that something systematic was
occuring. Neither could explicitly describe the process. Bandler knew he had
somehow picked it up from Perls and Satir. Grinder realized that if Bandler
could teach him to do what he (Bandler) was doing, he could then put the
process into a formula that could be articulated and copied.
The tools and techniques
developed within NLP identify and lay out specific patterns
of human verbal and
non-verbal interactions--fundamental characteristics of how people express
themselves and behave. One of the most basic objectives of NLP’s use of
modeling is to put these observable key behaviors--verbal and non-verbal
conduct--into appropriate and actionable steps that produce desired
results.
It is not to distill
the modeling process down to one “essential” or “correct” characterization of
the cognitive process of any particular individual. Rather, it is to enable us
to create a map whereby we can apply in an effective and advantageous way,
certain strategies that we’ve modeled. The primary goal is to enable us to be
more effective in our interactions and dealings.
The exactness of the
map--how closely it follows reality--is less important than how useful it
becomes. The modeled strategies may be used to achieve some purpose that is
constructive and functional, and it may be similar or different from the
initial use of the model.
John Soriano, MS
NLP Master Practitioner
www.breakfreeeasier.com
