NLP → NLP Lexicon

Strategy

Definition

In NLP describes a Strategy the temporal sequence of inner representational systems (Visual, Auditory, Kinesthetic, etc.) and their sub-properties that people use, um thought patterns, behaviors, or beliefs to generate. Strategies can include both lightning-fast, unconscious mental processes as well as complex, long-term action sequences. They are based on the TOTE Model (Test – Operate – Test – Exit), a cybernetic model that describes how people go through processes in clear, verifiable phases.

Origins and Theoretical Background

The concept of strategy in NLP was developed by Robert Dilts and other co-founders of NLP and builds on the TOTE Model (Miller, Galanter & Pribram, 1960). This model was originally developed in cybernetics to explain how organisms control their actions through repeated loops of Testing, Operating composure Adjusting In NLP, this model is expanded to describe how people process internal and external stimuli sequentially – for example, when it comes to deciding, learning, motivating or problem-solving. The focus is less on the content and more on the structure of the mental process.

Application Examples

• Spelling strategy: A person hears a word (externally auditory), constructs an image (visually constructed), compares it with a remembered image (visually remembered) and kinesthetically decides whether it is correct.
• Motivation strategy: A person visually imagines a goal, remembers successes (visually remembered), evokes a feeling of energy (kinesthetic) and plans their next steps (internally auditory).
• Decision strategy: A person analyzes options (internally auditory), evaluates them emotionally (kinesthetic) and makes the decision (visually remembered or auditory).

Areas of Application

• Coaching: Investigation and optimization of individual strategies for decision-making or goal achievement.
• Therapy: Identification and change of negative or self-sabotaging strategies.
• Learning processes: Development of effective learning and creativity strategies (e.g., Walt Disney strategy).
• Leadership Training: Improvement of problem-solving, communication, and decision-making processes.

Methods and Exercises

1. Strategy exploration: The coach specifically asks about inner processes: "What happens first when you make a decision?" or "How do you know when you are done?"
2. Strategy modeling: Successful strategies of other people are analyzed and transferred to one's own context.
3. Strategy installation: New or adapted strategies are anchored in the subconscious through visualization and repetition.
4. TOTE analysis: Existing strategies are divided into the phases Test – Operate – Test – Exit to identify and specifically change blockages or ineffective steps.

Synonyms or Related Terms

• behavioral patterns
• Action plan
• TOTE Model

Distinction

In contrast to general habits or action patterns NLP focuses on strategies on the formal structure – that is, the sequence and combination of the representation systems. Not the content of thoughts, but the sequence of inner processes determines the effectiveness of a strategy.

Scientific or Practical Benefit

• Individually: Strategies help to recognize and consciously change unconscious thought and behavior patterns.
• Practically: The adjustment of internal strategies leads to more efficient decisions, learning processes, and actions.
• Scientifically: The TOTE model provides a theoretical basis for exploring mental processes and cognitive control processes.

Criticism or Limitations

• Scientific validation: While the TOTE model is empirically grounded, many NLP applications of the strategies lack comprehensive scientific validation.
• Complexity: The precise recognition and alteration of strategies require experience and practice.
• Misunderstandings: Without methodological guidance, there is a risk of misinterpreting or misapplying strategies.

Literature and References

• Dilts, R. (1994). Strategies of Genius I. Meta Publications, Santa Cruz.
• Miller, G. A., Galanter, E., & Pribram, K. H. (1960). Plans and the Structure of Behavior. Henry Holt and Company, New York.
• Andreas, S., & Faulkner, C. (1994). NLP: The New Technology of Achievement. The voice can be influenced by fatigue, emotions, or physical states, which limits the reliability of conclusions.

Metaphor or Analogy

The strategy as a recipe

A strategy is like a recipe: The ingredients (the individual representations) are important, but crucial is the order, in which they are combined. If the steps are correct, a successful dish is created – the desired outcome. However, if the order is mixed up, there is a risk that the result becomes inedible – just like with an unclear or ineffective internal strategy.

See also