1. What is TimeLine?
A Timeline is a visual, linear experience of how someone codes and stores time. In NLP timeline is a term used to describe how we internally represent time. We internally represent the past, present, and future differently. The concept was originally laid out in the TimeLine Therapy and the Basis of Personality by Tad James and Wyatt Woodsmall. It was a project given to them by Richard Bandler. Timeline can be used to create goal representations as well as heal past traumas.
2. How can TL be used to establish goals and make them more real and likely to be achieved?
Since the timeline is a visual linear representation of time, putting pictures of goals on the TL can create spatial representations of what and when something might happen.
3. Before using TL for goals establish clear goals and outcomes.
Remember that goal setting and reaching is a process. It is more complex than just creating an image inside your head and saying this is what I want.
The first step is to verbalize your goal in active language (versus passive language). E.g. Make $100,000 in revenue by Dec. 31, 2025. As compared to I want to be able to make …. Or I want to be better at sales. (This is not specific and uses a comparative deletion “better” which makes it difficult for the brain to figure out exactly what you mean.)
Make the statement crisp and clean
Establish what you want using the NLP outcome frame. This helps define details, set a direction, specify contexts, handle ecology, and create a sensory-based representation using all three primary senses. Answer all of the questions in the outcome frame.
Now you are ready to create a timeline representation of the goal.
4. What is the specific process?
Remember that goals usually have action steps. Divide the goal into 3 action steps with time frames. Now you are ready to place on the timeline. This process works best if you walk the timeline and use spatial anchors.
Future pacing:
What is the overall time frame for accomplishing this outcome or goal?
Select a concrete goal or project to be accomplished in 12 months; create 3-time chunks between the present and the achievement. Now use the time line to place pictures in sequence. Notice the difference in your feeling of achieving the goal.
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