264 Part IV: Using Words to Entrance
Processing Stories and Metaphors
Your brain is a natural pattern-matching machine (in Chapter 3 you can find
more details on what goes on inside your mind) and you’re constantly
matching and sorting things. When you hear something new you make
connections and say: ‘Aha. This is like this. This reminds me of that.’ Your
brain naturally recognises patterns, and for this reason stories and metaphors
transport you to a different place and put you into the type of trance that
we describe in Chapter 16 – a deeply relaxed state in which you’re very
resourceful and your brain becomes naturally responsive to presented
patterns.
NLP defines metaphors broadly as stories or figures of speech that imply a
comparison. NLP suggests that stories and metaphors work as valuable
communication tools because they distract the conscious mind and overload
it with processing. Meanwhile the unconscious mind steps in to come up with
creative solutions and the resources you need. Thus you’re able to make new
meanings and solve problems.
Understanding the Stories of Your Life
You live in a world of stories, and you’re an accomplished storyteller. Don’t
believe us? Consider this. When you recount the day’s events to a friend or
partner, you’re telling a story. When you gossip on the telephone to your
mates, or describe a business process to a client, you’re telling a story.
Events don’t have to be make-believe to qualify as a story.
Getting to grips with storytelling basics
Whether they relate actual or imaginary events, good stories have four key
ingredients. Think about a child’s fairy-tale handed down through generations,
such as The Wizard of Oz, Little Red Riding Hood, or Cinderella and see if you
can recognise these elements:
✓ Characters: You need a hero, plus goodies and baddies along the way
✓ Plot: The storyline of the journey that the hero takes
✓ Conflict: The challenge or difficulty that the hero faces
✓ Resolution: The result or outcome that happens at the end of the tale
(we hope it doesn’t end in tears!)
