Power Source / Inner Source / Resource / Source
Definition
In NLP, the "Power Source" refers to an inner image or memory that reliably triggers an intense resource state in a person. This source can be a real place, an imagined spot, or a symbolic image associated with positive feelings such as safety, strength, peace, or belonging.
The source is an emotional anchor point, a kind of mental power reservoir that can be activated in difficult situations to remain capable, resilient, and centered. In NLP processes, the Power Source is used to activate resources, strengthen goal states, or transform distressing emotions.
Origin and Theoretical Background
The concept of the Power Source is closely linked to the resource model of NLP and has references to Parts Work, Timeline Work, and logical levels (according to Robert Dilts). The term was particularly coined by Lucas Derks and further developed in the social panorama technique and other formats.
The source is often located at the highest logical level ("Spirituality", "Identity", "Belonging") and is described there as the "Core State" – a state of deep inner coherence and connectedness.
Application Examples
- Client with fear of failure: By envisioning her "Power Tree" from childhood, she manages to gain inner stability and act more confidently.
- Executive under stress: Regularly imagines a cabin in the mountains – her Power Source – and can thereby self-regulate her state.
- Therapy for feelings of shame: Accessing the source is used as a resource to integrate destructive inner critics on a deeper level.
- Goal setting in coaching: A person defines their goal by incorporating the sub-properties of their Power Source (e.g., specific colors, smells, light moods) to charge it with positive energy.
Areas of Application
- Therapy: Stabilization after distressing experiences, trauma integration
- Coaching: Activation of resources, goal setting, self-leadership
- Leadership training: Stress management, self-regulation
- Personal development: Development of inner strength and identity
- Conflict resolution: Centering before conversations, emotion management
Methods and Exercises
Example: Trance to the source
- Client closes their eyes and remembers a place where they felt powerful, connected, or completely themselves.
- The place is associated with all sensory channels: What do I see? What do I hear? How does it feel?
- The characteristic sub-properties (e.g., light, temperature, sounds) are made conscious.
- This state is anchored (e.g., through a gesture).
- Application in everyday life: The person can "go to the source" at any time to recharge.
Further instructions:
- Use in cases of shame and guilt: The source is used to connect with a higher identity that lies beyond judgment.
- Transformation of foreign inner parts: The source can act in Parts Work as a higher instance that resolves inner conflicts with compassion and clarity.
Synonyms and related terms
Synonyms:
- Resource center
- inner power place
- source of strength
- Core State
Related terms:
- Core Transformation (Andreas & Andreas)
- Logical Levels (Dilts)
- Re-Imprinting
- Timeline Work
- Inner Landscape (Derks)
Distinction:
The Power Source is not the same as a simple positive anchor. It is more deeply rooted and connected to identity or belonging, not just situational motivation.
Scientific or Practical Benefit
Practical benefits:
- Immediate state change
- Promotion of self-efficacy and resilience
- Supports integration processes of inner parts
- Helps in trauma work as a safe place
Scientific context:
Although the concept of the "Power Source" in this form has not been empirically evaluated, studies on self-regulation through imagery techniques and resource-oriented hypnosis (e.g., by Lammers, Kossak, or Langhor) show a positive effect on stress management, emotion regulation, and healing processes.
Criticism or Limitations
- Not accessible to everyone: Some people have difficulty imagining inner images or places (especially with strong dissociation or trauma).
- Confusion with escapism: If the source is used as a "place of escape," it can lead to avoidance rather than integration.
- Misinterpretation as esoteric: In secular contexts, the term may need to be adjusted or explained ("Resource Center" instead of "Power Source").
Literature and References
- Derks, L. (1997). Social Panoramas: Changing the Unconscious Landscape with NLP. Crown House Publishing.
- Dilts, R. (1995). The Development of Personality through NLP: A Systemic Approach. Junfermann.
- Andreas, C., & Andreas, T. (1994). Core Transformation: Reaching the Wellspring Within. Real People Press.
- Cameron-Bandler, L. (1992). Feelings – What They Are and How They Work. Junfermann.
- Bandler, R., & Grinder, J. (1996). Patterns of the hypnotic techniques of Milton H. Erickson, M.D. (Vol. 1). Meta Publications.
- Langhor, C. (2020). Imagery Techniques in Psychotherapy: Fundamentals, Techniques, and Application. Springer.
