NLP Logical Levels

 

What are NLP logical levels?

NLP logical levels consist of 6 levels, which can help you to identify where you may need to make changes to achieve your outcome.

Robert Dilts first published the NLP logical levels in 1990 in the book “Changing Beliefs with NLP”. He created NLP logical levels based on the work of Bateson’s logical levels of learning.

6 NLP logical levels

• Environment
• Behaviour
• Capabilities
• Values and Beliefs
• Identity 
• Beyond Identity (vision or wider connections)

The NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) logical levels, developed by Robert Dilts, provide a framework for understanding and facilitating change at different levels of human experience. Here are questions aligned with each logical level to help explore and work through various aspects:

1. Environment

This level deals with the external context in which behaviour occurs.

• Questions:
• Where are you?
• When does this happen?
• Who else is involved?
• What is your environment like?
• How do these external factors influence your experience?

2. Behaviour

This level focuses on specific actions and reactions.

• Questions:
• What are you doing?
• How do you act in this situation?
• What specific actions do you take?
• How do you respond to external stimuli?
• What are the observable behaviours?

3. Capabilities

This level concerns skills, competencies, and strategies.

• Questions:
• How do you do what you do?
• What skills or abilities do you need?
• What strategies do you use?
• How do you learn or develop these capabilities?
• What resources do you draw on?

4. Beliefs and Values

This level involves what you consider to be important and true.

• Questions:
• Why do you do what you do?
• What do you believe about this situation?
• What values are driving your actions?
• What do you think is possible or not possible?
• How do these beliefs support or hinder you?

5. Identity

This level is about your self-concept and sense of who you are.

• Questions:
• Who are you in this context?
• How do you see yourself?
• What roles do you play?
• What is your purpose?
• How does this align with your overall sense of self?

6. Purpose and Spirituality (sometimes called Beyond identity)

This level addresses the larger system and your connection to it, often including meaning and purpose.

• Questions:
• For what purpose are you doing this?
• How does this fit into the bigger picture?
• What is your vision for the future?
• What higher purpose or mission does this serve?
• How does this connect to your sense of meaning in life?

Using These Questions

When working with these questions, it is important to:

1. Identify the Level: Determine which logical level is most relevant to the issue at hand.
2. Explore Thoroughly: Ask multiple questions at each level to gain a comprehensive understanding.
3. Seek Alignment: Ensure that there is alignment and coherence between the different levels to foster effective and sustainable change.

These questions can be used in coaching, personal development, therapy, or any context where understanding and influencing human behaviour and experience is valuable.

 If you are interested in learning more, maybe training in NLP and Coaching too, I can be contacted at:

Mark.peters@balancedapproach.co.uk

Mob/whatsapp: +44 (0)7831 743737

Web: https://www.balancedapproach.co.uk

 

Mark Peters is one of a small number of people who have earned the title of Master Trainer for the Society of NLP. As of November 2023, he is an owner of the Society of NLP.