Psychography: Three Paths to Resources

How personality models enable new NLP formats

In the first episode of my series “Developing New NLP Formats,” we started with the structure model of change and looked at how new NLP techniques can be developed systematically. I mentioned the dimensions of time, perspectives, and levels of change as ways to find resources. That article gave an overview of the topics coming up in the next issues, which will show in a much more concrete and lively way how all kinds of resources can be activated. Last time, we explored how animals can be included in NLP work. This time, it’s about how psychography can be used in NLP formats.

Psychography is the art of mapping the psyche. It is about understanding the inner structures, patterns, and logic of a person in order to find the most effective access to their resources. In NLP, we often work with models that describe these structures: the Enneagram, archetypes, meta-programs, or logical levels. Each of these models offers a different “map” of the inner world.

But a map is only useful if you know how to read it and how to navigate with it. This is where NLP formats come into play. They are the “compass” and the “vehicle” that allow us to move on this map. By combining a personality model with a specific NLP format, we can create powerful new interventions that are tailored to the individual structure of the client.

The three paths to resources

When we look at how people access their resources, we can distinguish three main paths. These paths correspond to different levels of the psyche and require different approaches.

1. The Path of Behavior and Strategy (The “How”)
This is the most direct and tangible path. It focuses on what a person does and how they do it. In NLP, this is the domain of strategies, T.O.T.E. models, and behavioral modeling. If a client is stuck in a specific behavior, we can model the strategy of someone who is successful in this area and install it. This path is highly practical and often leads to quick results. It is ideal for clients who are action-oriented and want concrete tools.

2. The Path of Beliefs and Values (The “Why”)
This path goes deeper. It addresses the underlying beliefs and values that drive behavior. Often, a behavioral change fails because it conflicts with a deeper belief (e.g., “I don’t deserve success”). Here, we use formats like the Belief Change Pattern, Logical Levels, or Reframing. By changing the meaning or the belief, the behavior changes automatically. This path is ideal for clients who are reflective and need to understand the “why” behind their actions.

3. The Path of Identity and Spirit (The “Who”)
This is the deepest path. It addresses the question of identity: “Who am I?” and “What is my purpose?” Formats like Core Transformation, Parts Integration, or work with archetypes operate on this level. Here, the goal is not just to change a behavior or a belief, but to experience a shift in identity. This path is powerful and transformative, but it requires a high level of trust and readiness from the client.

Combining models and formats

The true power of psychography lies in the combination of these paths. For example, we can use the Enneagram to identify the core motivation of a client (Path 2), and then use a specific NLP strategy (Path 1) to help them access a resource that aligns with this motivation. Or we can use archetypes (Path 3) to help a client step into a new identity, and then use Future Pacing (Path 1) to anchor this new identity in their daily life.

By understanding the structure of the psyche, we can choose the most effective path for each individual client. We are no longer limited to a single technique, but we have a whole toolbox of formats that we can combine and adapt as needed.

This is the essence of developing new NLP formats: It is not about inventing something completely new, but about combining existing elements in a new and meaningful way. It is about creating a map that is so detailed and accurate that we can navigate the inner world of our clients with precision and grace.

In the next issues, we will explore specific examples of how these combinations work in practice. We will look at how to use the Enneagram with Parts Work, how to combine archetypes with the Mentor Technique, and how to use meta-programs to tailor our language to the client’s map of the world.

Stay tuned for more insights into the fascinating world of psychography and NLP.