I’ve recently finished an absolutely incredible book called “The Ultimate Introduction to NLP: How to build a successful life.” Neuro-Linguistic Programming is described by author Richard Bandler as an “attitude and methodology that allow[s] people to think and communicate more effectively.” I first heard of NLP last year at a personal development program I attended and was curious about what this was and the possible benefits it could bring to my life. Written in story form, this book is easy to understand and clearly describes what Neuro-Linguistic Programming is and how it can begin to help you immediately.

I found myself reading this book over the course of a day and a half, taking notes and recording voice notes on my phone to begin encouraging myself with lessons learned from previous relationships, and career opportunities. There’s even an exercise I’ve found beneficial to help “orient [myself] toward a brighter future.” By reconditioning myself to understand how to feel “really good” based on five of the best experiences in my life as the foundation, I’m beginning to see the benefits of this practice and have found myself smiling a lot more at random. The tools that I’ve picked up from this book are incredible and are creating that sense of well-being that it advocated. I’ve even called on what I’ve learned on “How to Become a Masterful Communicator” while writing this post. Originally, I sat down full of excitement and enthusiasm having just finished this book. I couldn’t wait to share with everyone that there was something of value that I’d found and believe that others will also benefit from. I typed one sentence, then froze.

Slowly creeping through my mind, I could hear the voice of doubt and fear began to take hold of my keyboard. Thoughts like, “What if I sound stupid” and, “What if there’s not enough scientific research to back up the practices of NLP” was playing on my confidence. Spending some time reflecting on what was going on for me, I began to recognize that some of the clarifying questions I’d just read to “drill down and identify the specific issue” are useful to understand moments like this. By asking myself, “Compared to whom”, and “Who says”, I began to see that no one is even saying I’m stupid in the first place. By taking a step back and using what I just learned, I was able to unpack that my fear was based on the fact that I’m inexperienced with NLP and researching to learn more about its usefulness. Once I started listening to the recorded exercises and talking to people about it in person, I saw that the only thing holding me back from sharing was myself.

Have you ever had an idea you were so excited to share and then somehow talked yourself out of doing it? Have you ever been in a conversation where you could tell something was wrong but was told everything is fine? The chapter on “How to Become a Masterful Communicator” will definitely help you with those conversations. There are some simple questions that can make all the difference and the story lays them out, clearly explaining how they can help.

If there’s one book that you could read this year that creates positive change that leads to a stronger foundation to build a successful life, this is it. I’m excited to continue learning more about NLP and am open and willing to try the practices I’m finding in my research. All it takes is a weekend and you could set yourself up for a brighter future. And who wouldn’t want to see your smile a little more in the world? This is where your change can happen.

If you’ve enjoyed reading this blog post or find a useful idea, please share it with your friends and family. Your referral is greatly appreciated. I look forward to discovering where the change happens with you.