Developing new formats with NLP – The art of modeling

How do new NLP formats emerge? In this episode of NLP Podcast by Stefan and Marian, it’s about how you can develop your own techniques and formats. NLP is the art of modeling – that is, learning from excellence. But sooner or later, it goes beyond imitation: You begin to create your own models, combine things, optimize, and create something new. Learn how this works, what principles are behind it, and how you can start your own creative NLP journey.

NLP as the art of modeling

NLP began as a modeling discipline: Bandler and Grinder observed how excellent therapists and communicators worked – and formed structures that anyone could learn. Modeling means, finding out what works, and then reproducing it.

But NLP would not be a living discipline if it only remained at replication. Sooner or later, you want to forge your own paths: adapt existing formats, find new sources of resources, connect multiple models, and thus develop your own format.

The change formula in NLP

At its core, every NLP format is a path from a starting state (problem) to a goal state (solution). The key is the resource that makes the difference – that is, what is missing to achieve the goal state.

The fundamental question is always: How does the resource come in? This can happen through language, images, movement, inner states, memories, time travel, or perspective shifts. Once you understand the principle, you can create almost infinitely many new formats.

Perspectives as the key to transformation

Stefan calls perspective one of the most powerful sources of resources. Whether you view the situation from your own perspective (1st position), from the perspective of the other (2nd position), or as a neutral observer (3rd position) – each new perspective brings insight.

But why stop here? NLP allows you to go far beyond the three classic perception positions. For example, you can empathize with animals, fictional characters, mentors, or archetypal roles – and thus stumble upon completely new ideas and emotional approaches.

How new formats emerge

New formats often emerge from simple questions:

• What happens if I slightly change this familiar format?
• What if I combine it with another?
• What resource is still missing – and where could it come from?

Example: A participant expanded the classic model of the three perception positions. Instead of just I, You, and Observer, he also included the perspective of his supervisor, his employees, and an external consultant – five viewpoints instead of three. The result: a format that is particularly helpful for leaders in sandwich positions .

The Enneagram as a source of new perspectives

In another example, Stefan uses the Enneagram as a resource system. Each of the nine personality structures represents a different view of the world – from the perfectionist (Type 1) to the peacemaker (Type 9). If you ask yourself: How would a Type 2 – the helper – see my current problem? or How would an 8 act?, you immediately get new solutions.

This exercise also works with other models like DISC, MBTI, or transactional analysis. The key is the conscious adoption of a new identity perspective, to gain access to previously unused resources.

The dimension of time – working with timelines and resources

In addition to perspectives, time plays a central role. NLP techniques such as Timeline work, Reimprint or Change History use the factor of time as an axis of change. You can reactivate resources from your past, envision yourself in a possible future, or reinterpret the present. Stefan describes this as a kind of “Resource Garden Skyscraper”: past, present, future × different perspectives × logical levels create a three-dimensional matrix full of change paths.

Examples from practice: leadership, perspectives & innovation

Some examples mentioned in the podcast:

• Animal resources: The inner animal as a symbol of strength, courage, or calm – a mental encounter that provides energy.
• Mentor techniques: Putting yourself in the shoes of the Dalai Lama or Tony Robbins to gain new perspectives.
• Leadership formats: Perspective expansion at the executive, employee, and system levels.
• Personality change: “Become an 8” – consciously adopt different energies and attitudes.

Tips for your own format development

• ⭐ Just start. Slightly modify a familiar format – e.g., an additional perspective or a resource.
• 🎯 Stay focused on the goal. Every new technique should have a clear effect – more ease, clarity, or motivation.
• 🧩 Test and optimize. Develop, apply, observe, and adjust. NLP thrives on feedback.
• 🚀 Combine models. NLP, Enneagram, Timeline, systemic work – many paths lead to new insights.
• 💡 Keep it flexible. No format is set in stone – it can evolve.

Conclusion: NLP as a creative science

Developing new formats means applying the principles of NLP to yourself – with curiosity, a willingness to experiment, and courage. Every format begins with an observation and a question: How does it work? And how can I make it even better?

Whether you work with animals, mentors, time travel, or levels of consciousness – every new perspective is a piece of NLP evolution. And who knows – maybe the next big NLP format will come from you.