Discover how NLP goal setting goes beyond SMART goals and why using positive language can dramatically improve motivation and success.
From part 1 of goal setting https://crystalclearbyreka.blog/how-to-set-goals-in-a-positive-way/ you may already be familiar with the SMART goal-setting method, which is also used in NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming). The SMART acronym stands for:
- Specific
- Measurable
- Authentic (often referred to as Attainable)
- Realistic
- Time-bound
While SMART goals are helpful, the aim of this article is to introduce a slightly adjusted NLP goal-setting technique. Although less well known, it often creates far greater and more sustainable results — because this is where real NLP begins.
Let me explain why.
Why goals don’t always work — even when they’re SMART
Have you ever noticed that despite your best efforts, you still don’t reach your goals?
Even when you follow the SMART framework perfectly — ticking all five boxes — something still doesn’t come together. Motivation fades, progress slows, and eventually the goal slips away.
Let’s look at a simple example using the SMART method.
Goal: “I want to lose weight.”
Reframed as a SMART goal:
- Specific: I want to lose 5 kg / 10 lbs.
- Measurable: I can see the numbers on the scale changing or feel my clothes getting looser
- Authentic: This is my goal — not something I’m doing because my partner wants it
- Realistic: I’ve achieved this before; it’s reasonable for my body
- Time-bound: I want to reach this goal within 5 months
On paper, this goal meets all the SMART criteria.
So why does it still fail for so many people?
The hidden problem: negative goal language
The issue isn’t the structure — it’s the language.
“I want to lose weight” focuses on something you don’t want. It’s framed negatively. And this is where NLP offers a crucial insight.
Many goals are set like this:
- “I don’t want to be broke.”
- “I don’t want to stay in this job.”
- “I don’t want another toxic relationship.”
If you’re honest, you’ve probably used similar wording before. I know I have.
How NLP reframes goal setting
Your mind struggles to focus on negatives. When you focus on what you don’t want, your attention — and emotional energy — stays connected to the problem rather than the solution.
NLP teaches us that language programs the mind.
So instead of pushing your mind away from something unwanted, you gently guide it towards what you do want.
Let’s reword the original goal:
From:
“I want to lose weight.”
To:
“I want to feel fit and toned so I feel confident and comfortable in my body.”
This is a subtle change — but it makes a significant difference.
Why positive language creates better results
When you focus on negative wording, you reinforce negative feelings.
“I want to lose weight” keeps your attention on feeling overweight, uncomfortable, or dissatisfied.
That emotional state drains motivation.
When you shift the focus to a positive outcome — feeling energised, confident, strong, or comfortable — your mind responds differently. You start moving towards something desirable instead of running away from something unwanted.
Your motivation increases naturally because your mind can now visualise and emotionally connect with the outcome.
Your mind: ally or enemy?
NLP is about reprogramming your mind through conscious language choices.
Your mind can be your greatest ally — or your greatest obstacle.
The difference lies in how you speak to it.
When setting goals:
- Use positive language
- Focus on what you want to experience
- Move towards desired outcomes, not away from problems
Subtle shifts in language create powerful, lasting change.
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