Reverse Meta Model: Comparative Deletions

In NLP’s “meta model,’ a “comparative deletion”  is when the speaker leaves unstated what things are being compared and/or how that comparison is being evaluated.

As an example, if you’re speaking with someone and they say something like “it’s better,” you would have no idea what they’re talking about. And, instead of assuming or hallucinating some meaning that may not be true, it’s better to ask questions. Like – “What do you mean?” or “What’s better than what?” Or “In what way is it better?”  ANY of these questions will elicit more precise information from the person.

Examples:

Sugar’s sweeter. Love takes me higher. Bill is the smartest. Rail is faster. TexMex offers more.

AND – as you know by now – as hypnotists, we get to deliberately violate this meta model restriction in the service of artfully vague language that we employ to assist our client in a therapeutic way.

“It’s better to go into trance with your feet on the floor.”
“This is going to be the best one yet.”
“The best communicators have studied Ericksonian language patterns.”

So, as you continue to evolve as a communicator, isn’t it nice to know that you’re learning and growing and truly becoming better?

(Sometimes it’s good to just smile and say yes.)