Twenty ways to use NLP to help solve problems

Got a problem? Or – rather, a challenge (to use a NLP Reframe)? Sometimes using the standard go-to approach doesn’t fit for all challenges. Then they seem unsolvable, and that’s just frustration. So – here’s a list of 20 ideas to help.

Remember solving seemingly unsolvable problems with Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) requires a creative and flexible approach. While some issues may not have straightforward solutions, NLP techniques can help you shift your perspective, develop resourceful states, and explore new possibilities.

  1. Reframe the problem: Use NLP techniques to reframe the problem in a way that opens up new perspectives and possibilities. Look for positive aspects or alternative ways of viewing the situation.
  2. Anchoring resourceful states: Create anchors for positive and resourceful emotional states like confidence, creativity, or determination. Access these states when tackling the problem to enhance your problem-solving abilities.
  3. Model success: Identify individuals who have successfully overcome similar challenges. Model their strategies, beliefs, and behaviors to apply them to your situation.
  4. Change limiting beliefs: Identify and change any limiting beliefs that might be holding you back from finding a solution. Use NLP techniques like belief change patterns to transform these limiting beliefs into empowering ones.
  5. Utilize sensory acuity: Develop sensory awareness to notice subtle cues and changes in yourself and others. This heightened awareness can provide valuable insights into the problem.
  6. Explore different perceptual positions: Step into different perceptual positions, such as the observer or other involved parties, to gain new perspectives and generate innovative ideas.
  7. Use metaphorical thinking: Utilize metaphors and analogies to view the problem from different angles and find novel solutions.
  8. Apply timeline techniques: Use timeline therapy to address any past events that might be influencing your approach to the problem. Clearing emotional baggage can free up mental resources for problem-solving.
  9. Set well-formed outcomes: Clearly define the desired outcomes and make sure they are specific, achievable, and aligned with your values.
  10. Integrate conflicting parts: If you feel conflicted about the problem or its potential solutions, use parts integration techniques to find alignment and move forward.
  11. Use the Milton Model: Apply hypnotic language patterns from the Milton Model to stimulate creative thinking and open up new possibilities in your mind. A dreamy transelike state is very useful in problem solving – remember how sometimes a solution comes to you after a good night’s sleep?
  12. Practice mental rehearsal: Mentally rehearse different problem-solving approaches to gain confidence and discover potential pitfalls.
  13. Collaborate and build rapport: Work with others to brainstorm ideas, share perspectives, and build rapport. NLP techniques can help enhance communication and understanding among team members.
  14. Chunk up and down: Break the problem down into smaller or larger chunks to better understand its components or explore alternative levels of resolution.
  15. Visualise and manifest success: Use guided visualization techniques to see yourself successfully resolving the problem and manifesting the desired outcomes.
  16. Apply the six-step reframe: This NLP technique can help you access unconscious resources and find creative solutions to the problem.
  17. Develop flexibility and adaptability: Use NLP techniques to enhance your ability to adapt to changing circumstances and consider different problem-solving approaches.
  18. Clarify values and motivations: Reconnect with your core values and motivations, as they can provide guidance in finding innovative solutions.
  19. Employ metaphor ideas: Use metaphors to address deeper issues related to the problem, unlocking insights and potential solutions.
  20. Stay open to serendipity: Be receptive to unexpected connections and insights that might arise during the problem-solving process.

Remember, there may not always be a definitive solution to every problem, but using NLP techniques can help you find creative, resourceful, and innovative ways to approach and manage seemingly unsolvable challenges. Keep an open mind, be persistent, and trust in the power of NLP to unlock new possibilities.

Remember: “If you think you can, you can. If you think you can’t – you can’t – becaues then you won’t even bother”!

– NLP Presupposition

To learn more about any of the above NLP options (and many more) – then look at our free email course, or sign up to the NLP introduction or practitioner course.