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The differences between learning the milton model and the meta model

January 13, 2023

What are the differences between learning milton model and the meta model during an NLP training?

NLP training with a quality organization will teach you two language patterns:

1. Milton Model

2. Meta Model

What is the NLP Meta Model?

The meta-model is a set of questions which allows:

1. What is unconscious to be conscious

2. What isn’t presented by another person, to be revealed

When we communicate, we filter out information (processes called deletion, distortion, generalization) to make the conversation less lengthy and more natural to facilitate. The problem is, we create a lot of ambiguity this way. We can easily be misunderstood.

For example:
There is a communication problem.
What is filtered out and invaluable to solve this problem, for instance, is that it is unclear who is communicating with whom and in what way. What, specifically, is the problem? What is the problem specifically about? Etc.

The NLP Meta Model offers specificity.

What is the NLP milton model?

The Milton Model, in essence, is the language of the unconscious mind. By using this model, it is easier to obtain agreement, and it is easier to access the unconscious mind. When cleanly applied, it will induce a hypnotic trance. You have the option to use this model with someone awake and having a normal conversation with you or, indeed, induce hypnosis. Hypnosis is nothing mysterious, it is a natural state of mind we are in multiple times a day, a brain wave. Like daydreaming has a brainwave.

The NLP Milton Model offers ambiguity. It is vague.

A continuum line

The best way to look at both language patterns is as opposites of a continuum line. On one side you have the Meta-Model with complete specificity and conscious awareness, a hyper-alert brain wave is a result. It is the opposite of a trance. On the other side is the Milton model, with complete ambiguity and vagueness, which allows brain waves to lower into a state of trance, to go unconscious.

Influencing brain waves

Yes, this means that by using these language patterns you start to be able to influence someone else’s brain waves. You can make them more or less conscious. And since it is a continuum line, you can use different levels of consciousness.

NLP Training & trances

In essence, in an NLP training (assuming someone trains in a quality seminar), the NLP trainer will teach you how to use these tools effectively.

If you assume we are all in a negative trance, we may have our eyes open, but not really. We don’t like our job, we have negative thoughts, our relationship could be better, life is happening, and it is routine frequently. We think we have no options. We are experiencing negativity, frustration, irritation, sadness, fear and anger, pessimism, lack of resilience, confidence, self-esteem issues, etc.

This means the idea is you meta-model someone out of a negative trance. The one people are naturally in. To Milton model them in a positive trance. Where people become empowered, inspired, increase their resilience, optimism, happiness, or well-being.

History of the meta model vs. the milton model

In the history of NLP, the meta-model was created first, based on interview processes with renowned family therapist Virginia Satir. The way she asked questions to figure out what specifically was going on with a family were quickly were studied. This was also based on what was unconscious, or not even presented. She was able to gather information easily, and bring things in conscious awareness. An underlying pattern was found in the way she asks questions.

The meta model allowed for NLP to be created

The meta model allowed for all of NLP to be created. By making the unconscious conscious, models of excellence could be studied and questioned to figure out their process. You can ask someone questions about how they complete so many goals for instance, and through this find out what the best way of goal setting is.

Milton Erickson

The Milton model was created by studying Milton H. Erikcson, the founder of modern-day conversational hypnosis. There seems to be no evidence that the co-creators and the think tank of people who created NLP spent a lot of time with him. You can however study someones language patterns from recordings, writings and other materials. Milton H. Erikson would allow students of hypnosis to come to visit him. His language patterns were studied, which created the NLP Milton Model.

What Is the best way to practice both Patterns, shy of doing so in your NLP Training?

The meta model can best be learned using three questions at a time and practicing these until you master them. I would do this in your day-to-day life. We are information gathering all the time, whether it is in our personal life or our professional life.

The Milton model can best be mastered by yourself. Teaching this model in Global NLP Training, I have learned the best way to teach is the best way to practice.

1. Split the Milton model into bite-sized chunks. Three pieces at a time.

2. First master speaking the model by merely thinking sentences, without speaking out loud.

3. Writing sentences on paper.

4. Write keywords on paper (like flashcards) and use these as an aid to speak in the Milton Model.

5. Then speak the Milton model on your own out loud.

6. Then take it out into the world.

You can also mix practicing the Milton Model and the Meta Model by combining them with other techniques you learned inside your NLP training.