NLP → NLP Lexicon

Desired State

Definition

Der Desired State describes in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) the inner and emotional state that a person experiences when imagining having already achieved their goal. It is characterized by positive feelings such as joy, relief, satisfaction, or pride and is often accompanied by a characteristic body posture, breathing, and facial expression . The target state serves as a bridge in NLP between mental imagery composure physical experience – it makes the desired success emotionally tangible and anchors it deeply in consciousness. This state is consciously created and used to enhance motivation, clarity, and readiness to act.

Origin and Theoretical Background

The concept of the target state originated in the early works of Richard Bandler composure John Grinder and was further Robert Dilts developed. In NLP, it is assumed that changes are particularly effective when they are anchored not only cognitively but also emotionally and physiologically. The target state thus activates not only the mind but also the feeling of already having achieved. This emotional and physical connection creates a strong inner motivation and strengthens the belief that the goal is achievable.

Application Examples

• Coaching: The coach guides the client through a visualization of the target state. The client experiences the feeling of having already achieved the goal – which significantly increases their motivation and range of action.
• Therapy: The target state is used to connect clients with positive future images and to help them free themselves from negative emotions or blocking experiences from the past.
• Self-help: People who regularly immerse themselves in their target state strengthen their self-efficacy and develop a sustainable, solution-oriented mindset.

Areas of Application

• Coaching: Promotion of motivation, goal clarity, and emotional connection to the desired outcome.
• Therapy: Activation of positive emotions and future orientation in the change process.
• Self-help & personal development: Strengthening self-confidence and inner motivation through regular experiences of the target state.
• Performance & sports: Mental preparation by experiencing the feeling of success in advance.

Methods and Exercises

1. Anchor target state: The client recalls a strongly positive experience or vividly imagines having already achieved the goal. During this intense feeling, a physical anchor is set (e.g., a hand gesture or touch). This can later be used to recall the target state at the push of a button.
2. Visualization: The client creates a detailed inner image of their target state – including visual, auditory, and kinesthetic elements. They see, hear, and feel what it is like to have achieved the goal. This multisensory imagery enhances the emotional connection to the goal.
3. Activate target physiology: By consciously changing body posture, breathing, and facial expression, the target state can be physically experienced. Standing upright, breathing deeply, and smiling create an immediate change in the inner state.

Synonyms or Related Terms

• Success state
• Goal achievement state
• Goal Physiology
• Future state
• Dream state (in extended contexts)

Structuredness

• Goal Image: The visual representation of the target state.
• Target physiology: The physical manifestation of the inner success state.
• Anchor technique: Method for linking the target state with a physical stimulus.
• Future pacing: Technique in which the target state is integrated into future situations.

Scientific or Practical Benefit

• Practical benefits: The conscious experience of the target state promotes motivation, emotional stability, and self-confidence. It helps to align actions more purposefully and positively change the inner attitude.
• Scientific Reference: In psychology, the concept of 'embodiment' is seen as the basis for similar processes – that is, the interaction between body and emotion. Neuroscientific studies show that imagining a target state produces similar neural activations as actually experiencing success.

Criticism or Limitations

• Criticism: The target state alone is not enough to achieve goals. Without concrete action plans, the experience can only generate short-term motivation.
• Limitations: Some individuals have difficulty visualizing or experiencing intense emotional states. Other NLP techniques can be supportive here.

Literature and References

• Dilts, R. (1990). Changing Belief Systems with NLP. Meta Publications, Capitola.
• O'Connor, J., & Seymour, J. (2002). Introducing Neuro-Linguistic Programming: Psychological Skills for Understanding and Influencing People. Red Wheel / Wiser, Newburyport.
• Bandler, R., & Grinder, J. (1979). Frogs into Princes: Neuro Linguistic Programming. Real People Press.

Metaphor or Analogy

The target state is like a preview of your favorite movie – only you play the lead role. You see yourself in the future, how everything has already succeeded: You feel the joy, hear the applause, smell the success, and feel the satisfaction. This vivid, sensory experience pulls you forward magically – not like a distant dream, but like a familiar place to which you simply return. The metaphor illustrates: The target state is not just a wish image, but an emotionally experienceable state that provides orientation, releases motivation, and programs your subconscious for success.

See also