NLP: The Milton Model and the Meta Model

Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) is a field of study that explores the relationship between language, the mind, and behaviour. NLP practitioners use a variety of techniques to help people improve their communication, build rapport, and achieve their goals. Two of the most well-known NLP models are the Milton Model and the Meta Model.

The Milton Model

The Milton Model is a set of language patterns that can be used to create ambiguity and uncertainty. This can be useful for a variety of purposes, such as:

* Persuasion * Hypnosis * Therapy

The Milton Model is named after Milton Erickson, a renowned hypnotherapist who used these patterns extensively in his work. Erickson believed that ambiguity and uncertainty could help people to access their unconscious minds and make positive changes in their lives.

The Meta Model

The Meta Model is a set of questions that can be used to clarify the meaning of language. This can be useful for a variety of purposes, such as:

* Communication * Problem-solving * Negotiation

The Meta Model was developed by Richard Bandler and John Grinder, the co-founders of NLP, after having observed the work of counsellor, Virginia Satir. Bandler and Grinder believed that language is often ambiguous and imprecise, and that the Meta Model could help people to get to the bottom of what someone is really saying.

How the Milton Model and the Meta Model Work Together

The Milton Model and the Meta Model can be used together to create powerful communication. The Milton Model can be used to create ambiguity and uncertainty, while the Meta Model can be used to clarify the meaning of language. This combination can be used to:

* Persuade people to take action * Help people to solve problems * Build rapport and trust

Examples of the Milton Model and the Meta Model

Here are some examples of how the Milton Model and the Meta Model can be used in practice:

Milton Model Patterns:

* ‘I wonder if it would be possible…’ * ‘It seems like you might be feeling…’ * ‘Could it be that you’re considering…’ * ‘In some ways, it’s as if…’ * ‘I’m curious about what you think about…’

How to Use the Milton Model in Practice:

* **Build rapport:** Use Milton Model patterns to show empathy and understanding. For example, you could say, ‘I wonder if you’re feeling a little overwhelmed right now.’ * **Influence others:** Use Milton Model patterns to suggest ideas or behaviours without being too direct. For example, you could say, ‘It seems like it might be helpful to take a break.’ * **Facilitate change:** Use Milton Model patterns to help people explore their thoughts and feelings. For example, you could say, ‘Could it be that you’re ready to make a change?’

The Meta Model

The Meta Model is a set of questions that are designed to clarify and challenge the language that people use. This can be useful in situations where you want to get more information, understand the other person’s perspective, or identify any inconsistencies in their thinking.

Examples of Meta Model Questions:

* ‘What do you mean by…?’ * ‘How do you know that…?’ * ‘What would happen if…?’ * ‘What are the implications of…?’ * ‘What’s the evidence for…?’

How to Use the Meta Model in Practice:

* **Get more information:** Use Meta Model questions to ask for more details or clarification. For example, you could ask, ‘What do you mean by ‘successful’?’ * **Understand the other person’s perspective:** Use Meta Model questions to explore the other person’s thoughts and feelings. For example, you could ask, ‘How do you know that you’re not good enough?’ * **Identify inconsistencies:** Use Meta Model questions to identify any inconsistencies in the other person’s thinking. For example, you could ask, ‘What are the implications of saying that you want to be happy but you’re not willing to make any changes?’

The Milton Model and the Meta Model are two powerful NLP tools that can be used to improve communication, build rapport, and achieve goals. By understanding how these models work, you can use them to create more effective and persuasive communication.