Where curves are sexy:
A shade Bandura blue, clung to the shadows where secrets grew. Her laughter, a low, husky sound, echoed the forbidden knowledge in his eyes. Each touch, a deliberate exploration of the boundaries they both knew they were about to transgress, fueled by a desire as potent and undeniable as the theories whispered in the darkness.
The concept of the “Bandura Curve” in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) is rooted in the work of psychologist Albert Bandura, best known for his research on self-efficacy and social learning. While the “Bandura Curve” itself is not a formal NLP model, it has been adopted by many NLP practitioners to describe the natural emotional journey people experience as they move through stages of learning, growth, or change. Understanding this curve is particularly helpful for coaches, therapists, and anyone supporting others through transformational work.
At the heart of the Bandura Curve is a simple idea: when we take on something new—whether it’s a skill, habit, or mindset—we pass through emotional and cognitive phases. These phases shape how confident or overwhelmed we feel, and if not properly supported, they can determine whether we persist or give up. The curve shows that our sense of self-efficacy—the belief in our ability to succeed—is not linear. It dips before it rises.
In the beginning, people often start with enthusiasm. There’s a surge of excitement, a belief that change is possible, and a readiness to move forward. This is the high point at the start of the curve. However, as they begin to implement what they’re learning, reality sets in. Things are harder than expected. Old habits resist. Mistakes are made. This is where the curve begins to dip. The enthusiasm fades, and people enter what some call the “valley of doubt.”
This valley is a critical point in the learning journey. It’s where people question themselves: “Can I really do this?” “Was I foolish to try?” It’s also where many give up. But NLP helps us recognize that this dip is not a sign of failure—it’s a natural part of growth. Just like a muscle feels sore before it gets stronger, the psyche resists before it adapts. The Bandura Curve reminds us that temporary discomfort doesn’t mean we’re on the wrong path; it often means we’re exactly where we should be
Bandura curve is the frame work
As the individual continues and gains small wins, their belief in themselves begins to rise again. They start to integrate new patterns. Skills become more automatic. Confidence returns, but this time, it’s grounded in experience, not optimism. This marks the upward slope of the curve, where real competence and resilience are built. At this stage, the person no longer just “hopes” they can do it—they “know” they can, because they’ve faced the struggle and come through it.
In NLP coaching and therapy, the Bandura Curve can be an incredibly helpful frame for managing client expectations. When a client hits the valley, it’s not unusual for them to say, “This isn’t working.” But if they’ve been prepared for the curve, they’ll understand that this dip is part of the process. The curve gives them a map—a mental model that says, “This is temporary. Keep going.”
This model also ties closely with Bandura’s research on self-efficacy. He discovered that people are more likely to succeed when they believe their efforts matter. And how do they build that belief? Through mastery experiences—trying, failing, trying again, and eventually succeeding. That’s what the Bandura Curve captures: the emotional arc of growing into a new identity.
NLP techniques can support each phase of the curve. For example, anchoring can help sustain motivation during the dip. Reframing can turn perceived failures into valuable feedback. Future pacing can create a strong vision for life after the curve has been climbed. By integrating these tools, coaches and therapists can guide clients more confidently through the tough middle parts of change.
In summary, the Bandura Curve reminds us that progress is rarely a straight line. It dips before it rises. But within that dip lies the potential for the most meaningful growth. Coaches and therapists who understand this curve can become more effective guides—not by preventing discomfort, but by helping clients navigate it with awareness, patience, and trust in the process.
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