NLP Identity Exercise

Want to feel great about yourself? This exercise always does that for me.

The entire process takes 10 minutes and is one of my favorites from the NLP world.

NLP (neurolinguistic programming) is about seeing things through a different lens. Sometimes the one you’re using can be a little cloudy, right?

The NLP Identity Exercise is an easy introduction to the way NLP can work for you. I have a feeling you’ll gain some clarity and confidence.

Here we go:

STEP 1: Grab a pen and paper. You're probably reading this on your phone and are tempted to use your notepad and type it all out. I urge you NOT to do this. You really want the pen to paper connection to stimulate your brain.

STEP 2: Finish this sentence, "I am..." Have these be one to two word answers. Finish this sentence 10 to 12 times. None of these answers should be your profession or what you DO, you need to focus on who you are. Some examples: I am kind; I am loving; I am compassionate. Try to focus on positive things about yourself.

STEP 3: Now finish this sentence, "I am a..." Here is your chance to finish with your profession and what you do 10 to 12 times. Some examples: I am a coach; I am a teacher; I am a daughter.

STEP 4: One more sentence to finish, "I choose to live with..." Finish this sentence at least 10 times. Again, only one or two words are needed. This is where you think about the version of yourself you really WANT to be. Some examples: I choose to live with money; I choose to live with love; I choose to live with compassion.

STEP 5: Look at your three lists. Circle three answers from each list. Let your gut guide you. What is calling to you first? Don't overthink this. It's important to know what you are gravitating to in the moment you're doing the exercise because it will provide you with some great information about your personal development. Write these 9 sentences down on a separate piece of paper and set it aside.