COACHING TRAINING ABOUT CWI SHOP MEDIA LINEAGE PROJECT / BOOKSTORE

Robert Dilts

“Flexibility comes from having multiple choices; wisdom comes from having multiple perspectives.”

Influence on SDC Framework Focus

Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) began in the early 1970s as a behavioral modeling project. It quickly gained recognition for its transformative outcomes and innovative techniques.

In 1977, three foundational books by Richard Bandler and John Grinder helped establish NLP as a distinctive approach to personal development and communication. Robert Dilts, part of a second group working with Bandler and Grinder in Santa Cruz, California, later contributed significantly to the evolution of NLP.

As NLP spread, it faced criticism for vague terminology and hard-to-replicate methods, both of which made scientific validation difficult. Despite many anecdotal reports of success, including our own, NLP has remained resistant to empirical validation.

Self-Directed Change® (SDC) acknowledges these limitations. That’s why the Self-Directed Change Master (SDCM) Frameworks are grounded in methods and models with stronger empirical support. Even so, NLP remains a valued influence. Selected tools and principles are used throughout SDCM, not as a standalone solution, but as a flexible adjunct.

NLP techniques such as outcome orientation, well-formed goals, and rapport strategies offer practical value to coaches, therapists, and health professionals working toward more effective, aligned practices. These elements are used intentionally and selectively, always in service of supporting meaningful and sustainable change.
For a closer look, add Robert Dilts’ “Neuro-Linguistic Programming: The Study of the Structure of Subjective Experience, Volume I” to your library today. Find it here in the ChangeWorks Bookstore.

Bookstore

Key Contributions and Concepts

Robert Dilts has made significant contributions to the field of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) since 1975. He has expanded the field through the development of Systemic NLP, application of NLP techniques to various domains, and creation of influential models and frameworks. Dilts' work in the areas of strategies, belief systems, and personal development has helped shape the modern NLP practice. For more information about NLP see Richard Bandler here in the Lineage Project. 

Some of Dilts’ contributions include the Neuro-Logical Levels model, Success Factor Modeling, and numerous techniques for belief change and personal transformation.

  • Dilts developed what has become known as Systemic NLP, expanding the application of NLP principles to broader contexts.
  • He spearheaded the application of NLP techniques in education, creativity, health, and leadership, broadening the scope of NLP's practical use.
  • Strategies and Belief Systems: Dilts made seminal contributions to NLP techniques related to strategies and belief systems, which have become fundamental aspects of NLP practice.
  • He has authored numerous books and articles on NLP, including the Encyclopedia of Systemic NLP, significantly expanding the literature and knowledge base of the field.
  • Success Factor Modeling: Dilts co-developed this process to identify and transfer critical success factors for effective entrepreneurial activities.

Systemic NLP

Systemic NLP, developed by Robert Dilts, is an approach that expands traditional NLP principles to encompass broader contexts and systems. This framework recognizes that individuals are part of larger systems (families, organizations, cultures) and that change at one level can impact the entire system. Systemic NLP focuses on understanding and influencing these interconnected relationships to create more comprehensive and sustainable changes.

The approach integrates concepts from systems theory, cybernetics, and ecology with NLP techniques. It emphasizes the importance of considering multiple perspectives and levels of experience when working with individuals or groups. Systemic NLP is particularly useful in organizational settings, family therapy, and complex personal development scenarios where change needs to be addressed at multiple levels simultaneously.

Success Factor Modeling

Success Factor Modeling (SFM) is a methodology co-developed by Robert Dilts and his brother John Dilts. This approach aims to identify and transfer the critical success factors that promote effective entrepreneurial activities within both new and traditional companies. SFM involves analyzing key patterns of business practices and behavioral skills used by successful individuals, teams, and companies.

The process typically involves several steps: identifying exemplars of success, modeling their strategies and behaviors, extracting key success factors, and developing methods to transfer these factors to others. SFM goes beyond simple imitation, focusing on understanding the underlying principles and mindsets that drive success.

This model has been applied in various contexts, from business and leadership development to personal growth and organizational change. It provides a structured approach to learning from success and implementing effective strategies across different domains.

Neuro-Logical Levels

The Neuro-Logical Levels model is one of Dilts' most well-known contributions to NLP. This model provides a framework for understanding the different levels at which change can occur within an individual or organization. The levels, from bottom to top, are: environment, behavior, capabilities, beliefs and values, identity, and spiritual state (or purpose).

Each level in this model represents a different aspect of human experience and learning. The environment level refers to external constraints and opportunities. Behavior relates to specific actions and reactions. Capabilities are the skills and strategies an individual possesses. Beliefs and values guide behavior and capabilities. Identity is about one's sense of self, and the spiritual level relates to one's overall purpose or connection to larger systems.

The model suggests that changes at higher levels (for example, identity) will have a more profound and lasting impact on lower levels (behavior) than vice versa. This framework is widely used in coaching, organizational development, and personal growth to identify the most effective level at which to intervene for desired changes. It helps to understand the hierarchy of change in order to design more comprehensive and effective interventions.

Biography

Robert Dilts was born in 1955 and became involved with NLP in 1975. He was part of a second group that worked with Richard Bandler and John Grinder (the founders of NLP). Dilts studied directly under John Grinder and Gregory Bateson at the University of California, Santa Cruz.

Dilts' early work demonstrates a strong foundation in psychology, linguistics, and systems thinking. His interest in NLP seems to have been sparked by the unconventional approach to understanding human behavior and communication.

From the outset, Dilts showed a keen interest in documenting and expanding NLP concepts. In 1975, he wrote his first "Application" of NLP, titled "The Meta-Model and the Socratic Method of Philosophical Inquiry." This early work foreshadowed his future role as a prolific writer and developer in the field. His early work demonstrates a desire to apply NLP principles to diverse areas such as business, sales, education, family therapy, creative writing, and health.

Robert Dilts' career in NLP has been marked by continuous development and expansion of the field. From 1975 to 1981, he wrote extensively on various applications of NLP, which were later compiled into books. He became a key figure in the documentation and theoretical development of NLP.

A significant milestone in Dilts' career was the commissioning of "Roots and Applications" in 1980. This work likely helped solidify his reputation as a leading thinker in the field. Following the publication of “Roots of Neuro-Linguistic Programming” in 1980, Dilts continued to produce a substantial body of literature. He authored or co-authored 30 to 40 books on NLP and related topics.

 In 1981, Dilts founded a software company called Behavioral Engineering where he developed numerous educational software programs. At Behavioral Engineering he was able to showcase his ability to apply NLP principles to practical, technological solutions in education.

Throughout his career, Dilts has been known for his accessibility and has participated in NLP conferences and congresses. His engagement with the wider NLP community has likely contributed to his influence and the spread of his ideas.

Dilts runs the University of NLP in Santa Cruz, California. He has been involved in training and education throughout his career, and he has traveled extensively to conduct training programs around the world. He has coached the senior executives of many major global corporations.

Dilts continues to be an active and influential figure in the field of NLP and is the founder of Dilts Strategy Group, which provides coaching, consulting, and training services worldwide. The organization applies the Success Factor Modeling™ process, which Dilts co-developed with his brother John.

 Dilts remains a prolific writer and contributes to the literature of NLP and related fields. His recent works focus on topics such as entrepreneurship, generative collaboration, and conscious leadership, as evidenced by his Success Factor Modeling series of books.

In the academic and professional sphere, Dilts maintains his role as a thought leader and lectures extensively. He frequently gives keynote addresses for distinguished academic institutions and major corporations around the world. His ongoing work in developing and refining NLP techniques continues to impact the field and his contributions to areas such as Generative NLP represent evolving approaches to personal and organizational development. 

In recognition of his lifelong contributions to the field, Dilts was honored with the Lifetime Contribution Award by the Association for Neuro-Linguistic Programming (ANLP) in May 2018.

More information about Robert Diltz and NLP can be found here.

Book Store

Roots of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (1983; Meta Publications)

  • This book laid the groundwork for NLP concepts and techniques.

Applications of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (1983; Meta Publications) 

  • An early exploration of practical NLP applications in various fields.

Neuro-Linguistic Programming: The Study of the Structure of Subjective Experience, Volume I (1980; Meta Publications)

  • Co-authored with John Grinder, Richard Bandler, and Judith DeLozier, this became a standard reference text for NLP.

Beliefs: Pathways to Health & Well-Being (1990; Metamorphous Press) 

  • Co-authored with Tim Hallbom and Suzi Smith, this work explores the role of beliefs in health and well-being.

Changing Belief Systems with NLP (1990; Meta Publications).

  • This book focuses on techniques for altering limiting beliefs.

Tools For Dreamers: Strategies of Creativity and the Structure of Innovation (1991; Meta Publications) 

  • Co-authored with Todd Epstein and Robert W. Dilts, this work explored NLP applications in creativity and innovation.

Strategies of Genius Volume I, Volume II & Volume III (1994-1995; Meta Publications 

  • This series applies NLP methods to model the thinking processes of historical figures.

Visionary Leadership Skills: Creating a World to Which People Want to Belong (1996; Meta Publications 

  • This work focuses on leadership development using NLP principles.

Modeling With NLP (1998; Meta Publications)

  • This book covers tools and skills for modeling exceptional behavior.

Sleight of Mouth: The Magic of Conversational Belief Change (1999; Meta Publications)

  • This work introduces verbal reframing patterns for influencing beliefs.

Encyclopedia of Systemic Neuro-Linguistic Programming and NLP New Coding A-M and N-Z (2000; NLP University Press)

  • Co-authored with Judith DeLozier, this comprehensive overview of NLP became a significant reference in the field.

From Coach to Awakener (2003; Meta Publications) 

  • This book provides a roadmap for coaches to help clients achieve goals at different levels of learning and change.

The Hero's Journey: A Voyage of Self-Discovery (2009; Crown House Publishing) 

  • Co-authored with Stephen Gilligan, this work encourages personal transformation and growth.

Success Factor Modeling (2015-2016; Dilts Strategy Group) 

  • This series, including volumes on "Next Generation Entrepreneurs" and "Generative Collaboration," applies NLP principles to business success.