In Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), meta-programs are cognitive filters or patterns that influence how people perceive and process information. They are the higher-level programs that control our mental processes and shape our thinking, decisions, and behavior. Understanding a person’s meta-programs can reveal important information about their personality, preferences, and motivation.
Here are a few examples of meta-programs:
- Toward - Away From: This meta-program describes how people are motivated to move toward positive outcomes or away from negative outcomes. People who are oriented toward goals are motivated by a desire for rewards. People who are away-oriented are motivated by the desire to avoid problems or potential dangers.
Example: “I am looking forward to getting promoted and earning a higher salary.” A person who is disoriented: “I want to work hard to avoid being fired and facing financial difficulties.”
- Internal - External Frame of Reference: This meta-program describes how people assess themselves and their experiences. Internally oriented people evaluate their own performance and worth using their own internal standards and beliefs. Externally oriented people seek external feedback and validation from others in order to evaluate themselves.
Example: “I am proud of my achievements because I know I worked hard and gave my best effort.” “I feel valued and appreciated when my colleagues praise my work and recognize my contributions.”
- Proactive - Reactive: This meta-program is concerned with how people react to situations and challenges. Proactive people take the initiative and actively seek solutions, whereas reactive people react to events as they happen, often without taking any action.
Proactive example: “When I noticed a problem in the project, I took the initiative to address it and find a solution.” “I didn’t anticipate the issue, so I had to deal with it when it became a problem.”
- Procedures - Options: This meta-program describes how people approach tasks or problems. People who prefer flexibility and enjoy exploring multiple options before making a decision are option-oriented. Procedure-oriented people prefer structure and step-by-step processes.
Example: “I’m considering various vacation destinations and researching different activities to do during the trip.” “I like to stick to a morning routine that includes exercise, breakfast, and reading the news.”
- Internal - External Motivation: This meta-program distinguishes people based on the source of their motivation. People who are internally motivated are motivated by their own values, passions, and personal goals. External rewards, recognition, or pressures influence externally motivated clients.
Internal motivation, for example: “I practice playing the guitar every day because I genuinely love music and want to improve my skills.” “I work extra hours at my job because I want to get a bonus and please my boss.”
Understanding meta-programs can help clients tailor their communication style and strategies to resonate with the preferences and motivations of others, facilitating effective communication, negotiation, and coaching. People can improve their relationships and have more harmonious and successful interactions with others by recognizing and appreciating the diversity of meta-programs.