One of the major models in NLP is the Meta-Program Model.

Basically metaprograms are sets of perceptual filters. In each one of these sets we establish or acquire biases. Knowing our bias in motivation, for instance, can be really helpful in understanding and motivating ourselves.

Unlike most of NLP, there are no Meta-Program processes or interventions. It is simply an assessment tool to identify your (usually unconscious) preferences in various areas of life. What knowing your Metaprograms will do is increase your self awareness of how you pilot yourself through life. And that may help you avoid the shoals and find more easy sailing.

A Quick Meta-Program Primer

Joseph O’Connor and John Seymour, trainers and authors of multiple NLP resources, describe meta-programs as:
“…perceptual filters that we habitually act on… patterns we use to determine what information gets through. For example, think of a glass full of water. Now imagine drinking half of it. Is the glass half full or half empty? Both, of course; it’s a matter of viewpoint. Some people notice what is positive about a situation, what is actually there, others notice what is missing. Both ways are useful and each person will favor one view or the other.
Meta-programs are systematic and habitual, and we do not usually question them if they serve us reasonably well… Meta-programs are important in key areas of motivation and decision-making.
Because meta-programs filter experience and we pass on our experience with language, certain patterns of language are typical of certain meta-programs…. For example, one meta-program is about action. The proactive person initiates, he jumps in and gets on with it. He does not wait for others to initiate action. A proactive person will tend to use complete sentences, e.g.: ‘I am going to meet with the managing director.’ A reactive person waits for others to initiate an action or bides her time before acting. She may take a long time to decide or never actually take action at all. A reactive person will tend to use passive verbs, incomplete sentences, and qualifying phrases e.g.: ‘Is there any chance that it might be possible to arrange a meeting with the managing director?’ ” – Excerpted from “NLP: The Essential Guide” by Tom Hoobyar and Tom Dotz

Usually only taught at the advanced level, I’ve arranged, thanks to our associate Terry McClendon of NLP Australia, to give you a free sample of meta-programs in the easy to digest form of a personality survey. The survey takes about 5 – 10 minutes, and the first response that comes to mind is best. What you’ll get after taking this simple survey is an assessment of where you fit on the major Meta-Program spectrums. You’ll likely find some surprises and some “ah-ha’s”.

The survey is included with our free “NLP Tips” newsletter, too. (Don’t worry, if you’re already signed up, our system will protect you from duplicates!). So if you haven’t already, sign up for the newsletter (in box upper left) and get started!

Enjoy!

Tom Dotz