NLP in Japan

The exact timeline for when NLP was introduced in Japan is unclear, but it is generally agreed that it began to emerge in the late 1970s and into the 1980s. Initially, it was presented as a skill accessible to everyone, drawn from the analysis of the abilities exhibited by exceptional therapists who contributed to the development of NLP modelling.

Upon its introduction in Japan, clinical psychologists translated NLP-related materials from English into Japanese. To some, it appeared to be a counselling method. Eventually, it gained recognition within the therapist community and among individuals in the self-development industries.

In the 2000s, segments of NLP techniques made their way into sales seminars and romance books, emphasising their capacity to "persuade" or "seduce" people without them realising it. Unfortunately, this led to the public perception that NLP was often used by pushy or manipulative individuals. Some people misused NLP for deceptive purposes, resulting in negative associations such as "It's suspicious," "NLP practitioners are a bit weird," and "It’s like a cult."

Starting in the 2010s, NLP gained popularity among entrepreneurs. More celebrities who had undergone NLP training began to emerge, demonstrating that NLP was not just a set of techniques but a practical theory and approach that could significantly change lives.

In Japan, there is a growing demand for NLP coaches in both the personal and business sectors. As more individuals turn to NLP to enhance their personal growth, companies are adopting NLP to improve communication and leadership skills. Additionally, with the growing popularity of online education, the demand for NLP coaches offering online coaching and training programs is on the rise.

Many people in Japan today struggle to maintain hope for the future. The nation’s future is uncertain, with diminishing job security, a decline in permanent employment, and a rise in unstable temporary positions. Even among those fortunate enough to secure permanent jobs, some find themselves in harsh work environments characterised by long hours and low wages.

With an aging society, young people fear that their taxes and pension contributions today will not be enough to sustain them in old age. While the government is making efforts to boost the birth rate, the term "child-rearing punishment" is becoming more common, reflecting the anxieties around the challenges of raising children.

In schools, issues such as bullying, truancy, and hikikomori (social withdrawal) are widespread. Teachers struggle to deal with "monster parents" who make unreasonable demands of schools and educators. Similarly, the number of individuals making unreasonable demands of companies is also on the rise.

Unfortunately, happiness seems elusive for many in Japan today. According to data from the World Health Organisation, Japan has the highest suicide rate among developed countries.

NLP offers a different perspective and framework for those who believe they are affected by major societal trends, such as "society is to blame," "the government is failing us," or "these are dark times." It empowers individuals to shift from being passive victims of circumstances to active agents of change, prompting them to ask, "What can I do to be happier?"

Each individual change may be small, but like the ripples created by a stone tossed into a pond, as more people adopt NLP principles—changing their thoughts, words, and actions—the impact will gradually spread throughout Japanese society. People will be able to live with greater hope than they do now.

Unfortunately, NLP has had a negative reputation in the past in Japan, and there will always be individuals who are not interested in NLP or coaching as a result.

Another challenge is that Japanese culture tends to place a high value on authority. While people often place unconditional trust in nationally recognised qualifications, private certifications take time to gain people's trust.

Additionally, culturally ingrained beliefs discourage individuals from burdening others with their problems. As a result, many may take a long time to acknowledge that they have a problem and are willing to discuss it with a professional, let alone pay for their services.

However, in recent years, some celebrities have openly shared their experiences with NLP training, and the concept of coaching has been gaining popularity. As the effectiveness of these approaches becomes more evident, acceptance is likely to grow, and demand for NLP professionals will increase.

For all those involved in NLP in Japan, it is crucial to have a deep understanding of what NLP truly is, aligning their actions with NLP presuppositions and the ANLP’s code of ethics. This not only helps establish trust on a personal level but also enhances the reputation of the NLP community in Japan as a whole.

The Association for NLP (ANLP) is a professional organisation based in the UK that aims to support and empower NLP professionals. By becoming a member of ANLP, you can make several important distinctions when using NLP in Japan:

Accreditation acquisition: Joining ANLP can help you obtain an NLP professional accreditation. To acquire this accreditation, you must meet specific requirements, which will enhance your credibility as a specialised NLP professional. 

Professional network: ANLP has members worldwide who are NLP professionals. As an ANLP member, you can connect with these professionals and stay up-to-date with industry news and trends. Being part of ANLP's community provides you with the opportunity to expand your professional network.

Education programs: ANLP offers regular NLP education programs, and members can attend these programs at discounted rates. ANLP's education programs adhere to industry standards, ensuring high-quality training.

Increased awareness: ANLP is dedicated to promoting NLP and increasing its recognition. By joining ANLP, you can raise your visibility within the industry and enhance your profile.

If you aspire to become an NLP professional, joining ANLP and pursuing specialised training and certification programs will distinguish you from other coaching professionals.