I've tried various NLP type techniques for things like confidence in performance, which haven't worked, then later, with better training, tried using them in a way which has worked brilliantly. It takes too long to go into here, so send me a pm and we can discuss in more detail. Basically it is a form of self hypnosis, combined with positive visualisation (very much on the lines of the sports pshychology stuff). I've used the same methods when helping other people to develp confidence e.g. before giving presentations, and it seems to work for them too.
Sarah