NLP has its own language. Let’s review some of the most common terms.

Belief

Something that we hold true based on feelings rather than facts.

Values

A map that helps us evaluate incoming information. Values are typically tied to our beliefs.

Chunk

A group of related information that a person can process as a single entity.

Context

Also known as a frame. This is the lens through which you perceive things. This lens can be distorted by many different factors. NLP can help you identify the context and respond appropriately.

Conscious

The conscious mind refers to the part of your awareness that is accessible at any given moment. This is where your active thoughts reside, whether you’re focusing on what you’re learning or mentally going through your grocery list. The conscious mind typically holds around five to nine chunks of information at a time (called the 7±2 rule).

Unconscious

This term refers to any area of the brain that operates outside of your immediate awareness, such as the region that regulates your breathing or the language centres interpreting these words. While you may not be consciously aware of these functions at all times, you can bring attention to them—like when you become aware of your breathing after mentioning it.

In NLP, the definition of the unconscious does not align with Freud’s theories or the idea of a subconscious as something separate from the brain (such as the soul or neuron memory). Instead, it focuses on the brain’s automatic processes and functions that occur without conscious awareness.

Reality

Everything that exists outside an individual. Since this is based on perception (their internal reality), knowledge of external reality is always limited and never completely true.

Mental Map

An individual’s representation of any concept or experience is often referred to as a mental map. By nature, all mental maps are not entirely accurate, can become outdated, and are subjective. Nonetheless, they represent the best information we have at any given time. It’s crucial to remember that “the map is not the territory,” meaning that these representations are not the reality itself. Mental maps can be revised and recreated as we gain new experiences and insights.

State

Your emotional, physical, and/or mental condition at any given time.