The following article has been reproduced from the Life Coaching Institute of Australia (www.lcia.com.au) newsletter LCI Ezine Central.
Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) is a popular theory used in coaching. It focuses on how people perceive and make meaning of their world and works with perceptions to help people understand and make changes to the way they perceive their world.
Here we will focus on how we process information to create such perceptions. James & Woodsmall (1988) proposed the following:
"After the external event comes in through our sensory input channels, and before we make an Internal Representation (IR) of the event, we filter the event. We run that event through our internal processing filters. Our internal processing filters are how we delete, distort and generalize the information that comes in through our five senses."
Deletion involves the process of selectively paying attention to specific aspects of an experience (James & Woodsmall, 1988). Through deletion we fail to notice particular sensory information.
For example, Ben's sister is picking him up from a concert. He is looking out intently for her car which he knows is a bright red hatchback. Because he is so focused on seeing a small red car, he fails to hear his sister calling him from a blue sedan (which she had borrowed from a friend).
As you can see from the example, Ben is so focused on the visual aspect of his experience (see a red car) that he fails to notice (or deletes) the auditory aspect of his experience (his sister calling him).
Distortion occurs when we misrepresent the sensory data received. For example, Juanita thought she heard rain falling. She ran out to take her washing off the line only to discover that it wasn't rain at all - it was the sound of the neighbour's air conditioning starting up. This is an example of auditory distortion where Juanita thought she heard one thing when in fact it was something completely different.
Generalisation is the process of making a judgement based on a limited number of experiences and attributing that judgement to a broad array of experiences (James & Woodsmall, 1988).
For example, Tyson and Nicky are looking to rent a new home. They visit their local real estate agent. Tyson feels as though this particular agent is only interested in working with people who are seeking to purchase a home, rather than rent one.
Nicky later overhears Tyson say to a friend, "real estate agents are all the same. They only want your business if you're buying!" As you can see from this example, Tyson has had one experience with one real estate agent and generalises this to all real estate agents.
Filters
Filtering of the information occurs before an internal representation of an event is made. James & Woodsmall (1988) list six examples of filters we use to delete, distort and generalise information.
Metaprograms are one type of filter and they are styles of thinking (or mental programs) that operate like filters across many contexts of an individual's life. For example, the metaprogram General vs. Specific characterises whether a person processes information by focusing on the details or on the broader picture.
Other metaprograms include: Frame of Reference (external vs. internal, or in other words, whether you assess your performance based on your own internal standards or through the feedback you receive from others) and Option vs. Procedures (also described as whether you like to look for new ways of doing things or prefer to stick with established procedures).
Sub Modalities
Sub modalities are the descriptive qualities that are directly linked to a sensory channel. For example - linked to the visual sensory channel are the sub modalities of colour, size, shape and distance.
This means that when I look at something I can assess it based on these features. Alternatively, when I hear something, I can assess its volume and tone. Therefore, volume and tone are examples of sub modalities of the auditory channel.
References.
James, T., & Woodsmall, W. (1988). Time Line Therapy and the Basis of Personality. Capitola: Meta Publications
Wednesday 22 October 2008
Friday 8 August 2008
Prosperity Day
With ‘credit crunch’ and ‘recession’ by far the most talked about topics on TV and in our newspapers, people can be forgiven for spiralling into a somewhat negative and destructive state of doom and gloom. Yes, of course the country and indeed the whole world face problems and challenges, many of which are new to us. However, is it really all that bad; or shouldn’t we try a little positive thinking and reflect on successes and the positives rather than dwell on the bad?
In doing so we could very well surprise ourselves how powerful positive thinking is and how it can play an important part in reversing the current mood of negativity. This Friday, the 8th day in the 8th month in the 8th year presents us with a rare and unique opportunity to do just that.
The number 8 is most auspicious for success whether it is in relationships, family, health or in business. Therefore this ‘triple 8 for prosperity’ day which comes only once in a hundred years is very special indeed. So unique in fact that celebrated and highly respected positive energy specialist Dr Silvia Hartmann, PhD has named the day The World SUCCESS Day, the first day for the whole world to celebrate success and prosperity.
Dr Hartmann, who is also chair-person of The Association of Meridian Therapies (www.TheAMT.com) explains, "I thought, right, let's do something. Let's catch on to that auspicious breeze that’s existing there AND TURN OUR FORTUNES AROUND, set our fortunes in the opposite direction where this endless negativity is leading the way to doom, gloom, meltdown and disaster, namely towards success, enjoyment, personal triumph over adversity, and having a damn good time whilst you're at it!"
The date itself is a completely clear date in everyone’s calendar. There are no religious festivals or other holds on this date in the diary so everyone can join in. It is a totally fresh date for people everywhere wishing to live well and experience the good things in life joy, reward and personal triumph.
You can join in The World SUCCESS Day wherever you are and it doesn’t matter if you celebrate on your own, with friends or family, or at work with your business colleagues – the key to everything is positive energy and positive focus to bring about a bright future.
Dr Hartman outlines how to get involved on the day and what to do.
At any time on Friday, 08.08.08 take a few moments. Get yourself some champagne or some sparkling water and a nice glass. Fill the glass and get ready for a simple 3 step process which starts with:
Celebrating Past Successes
Take a moment to reflect on all the success you have had in your life,
all the things you are good at, really focus on your strengths, on your good points.
Congratulate yourself for having made it this far and when you have a real sense
of what it has taken for you to come here and be who you are today, toast yourself
and your achievements.
Take a drink.
Celebrating The Gifts Of The Present
Now, take a moment to think about your present reality -
all the good things you already have in your life, successful things,
relationships, achievements, favourite objects or other blessings
such as health and a good brain, for example. Breathe deeply as you do that
and allow yourself to be surprised by the sheer quantity of your blessings
in the now.
Enjoy this - and take a drink.
Creating Success For The Future
Now take a moment to reflect on your future goals, those things you want in life,
the successes still to come and really allow yourself to focus strongly on what
you want to achieve.
When you have a really charged feeling about your future success, and you are
clear about what you want in your life, raise your glass up high and say,
"A toast to my success!"
And now, empty the glass completely.
That’s it!
It is a well know fact that positive thinking can be an extremely powerful and effective tool in our business and personal lives. For many people this small but important exercise on Friday will be the first time to discover for themselves that change really is possible when we think positively. The more people there are joining in the celebrations on Friday the more positivity will be spread around for ourselves and for each other, and make our world a nicer place to live. Just try it and see!
ENJOY...........!!!!
In doing so we could very well surprise ourselves how powerful positive thinking is and how it can play an important part in reversing the current mood of negativity. This Friday, the 8th day in the 8th month in the 8th year presents us with a rare and unique opportunity to do just that.
The number 8 is most auspicious for success whether it is in relationships, family, health or in business. Therefore this ‘triple 8 for prosperity’ day which comes only once in a hundred years is very special indeed. So unique in fact that celebrated and highly respected positive energy specialist Dr Silvia Hartmann, PhD has named the day The World SUCCESS Day, the first day for the whole world to celebrate success and prosperity.
Dr Hartmann, who is also chair-person of The Association of Meridian Therapies (www.TheAMT.com) explains, "I thought, right, let's do something. Let's catch on to that auspicious breeze that’s existing there AND TURN OUR FORTUNES AROUND, set our fortunes in the opposite direction where this endless negativity is leading the way to doom, gloom, meltdown and disaster, namely towards success, enjoyment, personal triumph over adversity, and having a damn good time whilst you're at it!"
The date itself is a completely clear date in everyone’s calendar. There are no religious festivals or other holds on this date in the diary so everyone can join in. It is a totally fresh date for people everywhere wishing to live well and experience the good things in life joy, reward and personal triumph.
You can join in The World SUCCESS Day wherever you are and it doesn’t matter if you celebrate on your own, with friends or family, or at work with your business colleagues – the key to everything is positive energy and positive focus to bring about a bright future.
Dr Hartman outlines how to get involved on the day and what to do.
At any time on Friday, 08.08.08 take a few moments. Get yourself some champagne or some sparkling water and a nice glass. Fill the glass and get ready for a simple 3 step process which starts with:
Celebrating Past Successes
Take a moment to reflect on all the success you have had in your life,
all the things you are good at, really focus on your strengths, on your good points.
Congratulate yourself for having made it this far and when you have a real sense
of what it has taken for you to come here and be who you are today, toast yourself
and your achievements.
Take a drink.
Celebrating The Gifts Of The Present
Now, take a moment to think about your present reality -
all the good things you already have in your life, successful things,
relationships, achievements, favourite objects or other blessings
such as health and a good brain, for example. Breathe deeply as you do that
and allow yourself to be surprised by the sheer quantity of your blessings
in the now.
Enjoy this - and take a drink.
Creating Success For The Future
Now take a moment to reflect on your future goals, those things you want in life,
the successes still to come and really allow yourself to focus strongly on what
you want to achieve.
When you have a really charged feeling about your future success, and you are
clear about what you want in your life, raise your glass up high and say,
"A toast to my success!"
And now, empty the glass completely.
That’s it!
It is a well know fact that positive thinking can be an extremely powerful and effective tool in our business and personal lives. For many people this small but important exercise on Friday will be the first time to discover for themselves that change really is possible when we think positively. The more people there are joining in the celebrations on Friday the more positivity will be spread around for ourselves and for each other, and make our world a nicer place to live. Just try it and see!
ENJOY...........!!!!
Tuesday 13 May 2008
Fear
3 Fears, 3 Solutions
There are three basic fears that all of us experience from time to time:
Fear of Failure, Fear of Rejection and Fear of the Unknown.
Yes, there are other fears we encounter, but these three are the ones that have the greatest tendency to affect our day to day decisions, and our ability and desire to achieve our goals. Here are some very simple approaches to consider in addressing these fears.
Fear of Failure
Adopt the attitude that there is no such thing as failure. There is only learning. Maybe the goal is too big and unrealistic as it is now. Is there something smaller you could work on first that is "less risky?" In many cases, the "failure" comes from a skills shortage. So, what can you learn how to do, or to better, that reduces the risk? Sometimes we feel we'll "fail" if we have to do the task on our own. Who could you ask to get involved with to accomplish the task with a greater result and less fear? If something doesn't work, try something else. You always have this choice, so "failure" doesn't have to be permanent. Has there ever been a time when you were successful? What made you successful then and can you apply it now? If you haven't succeeded at something before, what have you learnt from it that you can apply to now?
Fear of Rejection
We often focus on the thing the other person is saying "no" to. What are they saying "yes" to? What would be different if you were focused on both what you want and what the other person wants versus just being focused on what you want? Just because someone said "no" to you doesn't mean you don't have value. It's not necessarily about you. There is something to learn from every situation. What could you learn from a "no" answer? Are you really ready for a "yes" response? If you're not ready for it, you might actually attract the "no" response. You always have a choice of attitude. If you choose the negative outcome attitude, you'll attract exactly that. Remember the strengths and value of you, or of the proposition, and focus on that positive. That will attract a far more positive response.
Fear of the Unknown
There are some things you're never going to be able to know about (like the future) in advance, so stop trying. If there's information you need, what can (and will) you do about getting it? Are you trying to make a decision based on an assumption? Remember that assumptions are not facts. Do you trust your intuition? Our intuition is typically right on the mark. Even if the outcome isn't what you want, there's always something to learn from it. Learn the unknown, even if after the fact. Sometimes it takes a leap of faith. Are you willing to simply believe? If you don't try anything, you won't move at all. Taking even little steps helps you learn the unknown, so you can take a bigger step next time. What little step can you take now?
Author: Noel Posus
Website: www.noelposus.com
Adopted from CoachingIQ website
There are three basic fears that all of us experience from time to time:
Fear of Failure, Fear of Rejection and Fear of the Unknown.
Yes, there are other fears we encounter, but these three are the ones that have the greatest tendency to affect our day to day decisions, and our ability and desire to achieve our goals. Here are some very simple approaches to consider in addressing these fears.
Fear of Failure
Adopt the attitude that there is no such thing as failure. There is only learning. Maybe the goal is too big and unrealistic as it is now. Is there something smaller you could work on first that is "less risky?" In many cases, the "failure" comes from a skills shortage. So, what can you learn how to do, or to better, that reduces the risk? Sometimes we feel we'll "fail" if we have to do the task on our own. Who could you ask to get involved with to accomplish the task with a greater result and less fear? If something doesn't work, try something else. You always have this choice, so "failure" doesn't have to be permanent. Has there ever been a time when you were successful? What made you successful then and can you apply it now? If you haven't succeeded at something before, what have you learnt from it that you can apply to now?
Fear of Rejection
We often focus on the thing the other person is saying "no" to. What are they saying "yes" to? What would be different if you were focused on both what you want and what the other person wants versus just being focused on what you want? Just because someone said "no" to you doesn't mean you don't have value. It's not necessarily about you. There is something to learn from every situation. What could you learn from a "no" answer? Are you really ready for a "yes" response? If you're not ready for it, you might actually attract the "no" response. You always have a choice of attitude. If you choose the negative outcome attitude, you'll attract exactly that. Remember the strengths and value of you, or of the proposition, and focus on that positive. That will attract a far more positive response.
Fear of the Unknown
There are some things you're never going to be able to know about (like the future) in advance, so stop trying. If there's information you need, what can (and will) you do about getting it? Are you trying to make a decision based on an assumption? Remember that assumptions are not facts. Do you trust your intuition? Our intuition is typically right on the mark. Even if the outcome isn't what you want, there's always something to learn from it. Learn the unknown, even if after the fact. Sometimes it takes a leap of faith. Are you willing to simply believe? If you don't try anything, you won't move at all. Taking even little steps helps you learn the unknown, so you can take a bigger step next time. What little step can you take now?
Author: Noel Posus
Website: www.noelposus.com
Adopted from CoachingIQ website
Sunday 20 April 2008
Coaching
Coaching is a structured, focused, interactive process designed to unlock potential and maximise performance in people, at both an individual and organisational level. The word coach is derived from early methods of travel e.g. stage coach, and literally means to transport someone from one place to another (Starr, 2003)[i]. This process of transition from where the client is now, to where they wish to be and the capacity to devise an appropriate action plan to get there – ‘with as little effort and as much fun as possible’ (Blanchard & Homan, 2004)[ii] - is fundamental to the coaching process, and journey.
The basis of Personal & Executive Coaching is that people are creative and resourceful, and have the capacity to overcome the challenges confronting them in their personal and professional lives. Coaching releases this potential through effective questioning, constructive challenging and action orientated goal setting, in collaboration with the client(s). The overall objective is to assist individuals identify and overcome barriers to progress, to make more effective decisions, and enhance their performance now and into the future.
[i] Starr, J (2003) The Coaching Manual: The definitive guide to the process, principles and skills of personal Coaching. Pearson Education Ltd Harlow
[ii] Blanchard, S & Homan, M (2004) Leverage Your Best: Ditch the Rest. Coaching Secrets for Life and Work Capstone Publishing Ltd Chichester
At EPM Consulting, our objective is to work with resourceful and succesful people to optimise their potential and effectiveness, in both a personal and business context. We specialise in Career Coaching, which can be delivered one to one in person, or by telephone.
Interested . . why not contact us today to discuss how you can Be your Best!
The basis of Personal & Executive Coaching is that people are creative and resourceful, and have the capacity to overcome the challenges confronting them in their personal and professional lives. Coaching releases this potential through effective questioning, constructive challenging and action orientated goal setting, in collaboration with the client(s). The overall objective is to assist individuals identify and overcome barriers to progress, to make more effective decisions, and enhance their performance now and into the future.
[i] Starr, J (2003) The Coaching Manual: The definitive guide to the process, principles and skills of personal Coaching. Pearson Education Ltd Harlow
[ii] Blanchard, S & Homan, M (2004) Leverage Your Best: Ditch the Rest. Coaching Secrets for Life and Work Capstone Publishing Ltd Chichester
At EPM Consulting, our objective is to work with resourceful and succesful people to optimise their potential and effectiveness, in both a personal and business context. We specialise in Career Coaching, which can be delivered one to one in person, or by telephone.
Interested . . why not contact us today to discuss how you can Be your Best!
Friday 4 January 2008
What do you want in 2008?
It is now the first week-end of 2008, and perhaps an opportunity to finally find some space to review and clarify your plans / objectives / goals for 2008. We all - unconsciously at least - have dreams, aspirations and a wish list for the year ahead, even if we haven't yet articulated them, or admitted them consciously. However, as the noted life coach Henry Kimsey-House stated "wishes without goals are just dreams".
To help you get started, I have included below an article by Jack Cranfield.
Decide What You Want by Jack Canfield
In order to get what you want, you must first decide what you want. Most people really foul up at this crucial first step because they simply can't see how it's possible to get what they want -- so they don't even let themselves want it.
Don't sabotage yourself that way!
What scientists now know about how the brain works is that you must first decide WHAT you want, before your brain can figure out HOW to get it. Once you lock-in your desires, your mind and the universe can step in.
Are you ready to get started?
Be Willing to Dream BIG Dreams.
As soon as you commit to a big dream and really go after it, your subconscious creative mind will come up with big ideas to make it happen. You'll start attracting the people, resources, and opportunities you need into your life to make your dream come true. Big dreams not only inspire you, they compel others to want to play big, too.
Set Goals That Will Stretch You
Another value in giving yourself permission to go after the big dreams is that big dreams require you to grow in order to achieve them. In fact, in the long run, that is the greatest benefit you will receive from pursuing your dreams -- not so much the outer trappings of fulfilling the dream (an expensive car, impressive house, loads of money and philanthropic opportunities), but who you become in the process.
As I've seen many times over, the outer symbols of success can all be easily lost. Houses burn down, companies go bankrupt, relationships end, cars get old, bodies age and fame wanes, but who you are, what you have learned, and the new skills you have developed never go away. These are the true prizes of success. Motivational philosopher, Jim Rohn advises that "You should set a goal big enough that in the process of achieving it, you become someone worth becoming."
Service to Others
Something else you'll discover is that when your dreams include service to others -- accomplishing something that contributes to others -- it also accelerates the accomplishment of that goal. People want to be part of something that contributes and makes a difference.
Turn Your Dreams into Goals and Objectives
Once you are clear about what you want, you must turn each item into a measurable objective. By measurable, I mean measurable in space and time -- how much and by when. For instance, if you were to tell me that you wanted more money, I might pull out a dollar and give it to you, but you would probably protest, saying "No, I meant a lot more money -- like $20,000!" Well, how am I supposed to know unless you tell me? Similarly, your boss, your friends, your spouse, your brain -- God, the Universe -- can't figure out what you want unless you tell them specifically what it is. What do you want -- exactly -- and when do you want it by?
Write Your Goals Down
Write your goals down in detail, and read your list of goals every day. This will keep your subconscious mind focused on what you want. For an even more powerful approach, close your eyes and focus on each goal and ask yourself, "What is one thing I could do today to move toward the achievement of this goal?" Write down your answers and take those actions.
I recommend writing down a minimum of 3 goals in each of the following 7 areas:
1. Financial Goals
2. Career/Business Goals
3. Free Time/Family Time
4. Health/Appearance Goals
5. Relationship Goals
6. Personal Growth
7. Making a Difference
To help your reticular activating system begin finding YOUR wants in unexpected places, take time now to decide what you want and start writing!
To help you get started, I have included below an article by Jack Cranfield.
Decide What You Want by Jack Canfield
In order to get what you want, you must first decide what you want. Most people really foul up at this crucial first step because they simply can't see how it's possible to get what they want -- so they don't even let themselves want it.
Don't sabotage yourself that way!
What scientists now know about how the brain works is that you must first decide WHAT you want, before your brain can figure out HOW to get it. Once you lock-in your desires, your mind and the universe can step in.
Are you ready to get started?
Be Willing to Dream BIG Dreams.
As soon as you commit to a big dream and really go after it, your subconscious creative mind will come up with big ideas to make it happen. You'll start attracting the people, resources, and opportunities you need into your life to make your dream come true. Big dreams not only inspire you, they compel others to want to play big, too.
Set Goals That Will Stretch You
Another value in giving yourself permission to go after the big dreams is that big dreams require you to grow in order to achieve them. In fact, in the long run, that is the greatest benefit you will receive from pursuing your dreams -- not so much the outer trappings of fulfilling the dream (an expensive car, impressive house, loads of money and philanthropic opportunities), but who you become in the process.
As I've seen many times over, the outer symbols of success can all be easily lost. Houses burn down, companies go bankrupt, relationships end, cars get old, bodies age and fame wanes, but who you are, what you have learned, and the new skills you have developed never go away. These are the true prizes of success. Motivational philosopher, Jim Rohn advises that "You should set a goal big enough that in the process of achieving it, you become someone worth becoming."
Service to Others
Something else you'll discover is that when your dreams include service to others -- accomplishing something that contributes to others -- it also accelerates the accomplishment of that goal. People want to be part of something that contributes and makes a difference.
Turn Your Dreams into Goals and Objectives
Once you are clear about what you want, you must turn each item into a measurable objective. By measurable, I mean measurable in space and time -- how much and by when. For instance, if you were to tell me that you wanted more money, I might pull out a dollar and give it to you, but you would probably protest, saying "No, I meant a lot more money -- like $20,000!" Well, how am I supposed to know unless you tell me? Similarly, your boss, your friends, your spouse, your brain -- God, the Universe -- can't figure out what you want unless you tell them specifically what it is. What do you want -- exactly -- and when do you want it by?
Write Your Goals Down
Write your goals down in detail, and read your list of goals every day. This will keep your subconscious mind focused on what you want. For an even more powerful approach, close your eyes and focus on each goal and ask yourself, "What is one thing I could do today to move toward the achievement of this goal?" Write down your answers and take those actions.
I recommend writing down a minimum of 3 goals in each of the following 7 areas:
1. Financial Goals
2. Career/Business Goals
3. Free Time/Family Time
4. Health/Appearance Goals
5. Relationship Goals
6. Personal Growth
7. Making a Difference
To help your reticular activating system begin finding YOUR wants in unexpected places, take time now to decide what you want and start writing!
Sunday 30 December 2007
New Year
Further to my post below, I am delighted that an earlier article on New Years Resolutions has been chosen as a front page article by Helium.com. This can be viewed by going to www.helium.com, or by clicking on http://www.helium.com/tm/107977/again-contemplate-making-changes
What a great end to 2007!
What a great end to 2007!
Friday 7 December 2007
It's almost here.
The New Year stretches before us like 365 blank pages of a personal diary.What will be written on those pages by this time next year? Will it be a tale of health, wealth, romance and wondrous prosperity? Or will those pages tell a story of misery, sorrow and sadness?
There's only one thing for sure... whatever is written on those pages will be authored by you and me! Isn't that neat? Just think... each of us is writing our own personal action adventure... and...We Can Make It Come Out Anyway We Want!
The above words were written by Neil Asher on his blog, and don't they just ring true? As we approach the start of a New Year, we all have the opportunity to start afresh, to turn over a new leaf, to be everything we wanted to be. The possibilities are endless, limited only by our own imagination, and self-imposed obstacles.
What is stopping you moving ahead, moving forward, being what you want to be?
What boundaries are you placing in your own way? What patterns of thinking or behaviour are inhibiting you from being your best?
Make that change, and take that first step by contacting EPM Consulting (www.epmconsulting.eu) for Personal, Executive & Lifestyle Coaching.
Your new life might only be one click away!!!
The New Year stretches before us like 365 blank pages of a personal diary.What will be written on those pages by this time next year? Will it be a tale of health, wealth, romance and wondrous prosperity? Or will those pages tell a story of misery, sorrow and sadness?
There's only one thing for sure... whatever is written on those pages will be authored by you and me! Isn't that neat? Just think... each of us is writing our own personal action adventure... and...We Can Make It Come Out Anyway We Want!
The above words were written by Neil Asher on his blog, and don't they just ring true? As we approach the start of a New Year, we all have the opportunity to start afresh, to turn over a new leaf, to be everything we wanted to be. The possibilities are endless, limited only by our own imagination, and self-imposed obstacles.
What is stopping you moving ahead, moving forward, being what you want to be?
What boundaries are you placing in your own way? What patterns of thinking or behaviour are inhibiting you from being your best?
Make that change, and take that first step by contacting EPM Consulting (www.epmconsulting.eu) for Personal, Executive & Lifestyle Coaching.
Your new life might only be one click away!!!
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