Understanding psychology can give you an advantage in dealing with a variety of situations. Whether you want to improve your social skills, decision-making abilities, or overall communication, these 15 psychological tricks can help. But it should be noted that these tricks should not be used to manipulate people, but rather to improve your communication and relationships. Here are some tips that can work wonders:
1. Make a Good First Impression with Eye Contact
Eye contact is a powerful way to connect with someone and make a good first impression. However, it’s important to strike a balance between making eye contact and staring. Aiming for a few seconds of direct eye contact before shifting your gaze can help you build trust, show interest, and convey credibility.
2. Stay Calm in the Face of Anger
When someone is angry, staying calm is key to diffusing the situation. Responding with anger will only escalate the conflict. By taking deep breaths, pausing before responding, and focusing on the facts, you can lower the emotional temperature and steer the conversation towards a resolution.
3. Use Silence to Encourage Elaboration
If someone gives you a vague answer, holding eye contact and waiting silently can encourage them to elaborate. This technique creates a sense of discomfort that often leads people to fill in the silence with more information.
4. Limit Your Options for Better Decision-making
Having too many options can make it difficult to make a decision. By narrowing down your choices, you can reduce anxiety and increase the likelihood of making a decision that aligns with your values and goals.
5. Plan Mid-week Activities for More Joyful Weeks
Planning an enjoyable mid-week activity can make the whole week feel better. When you look forward to something, it can help boost your mood and give you a sense of purpose. Schedule a workout class, a dinner with friends, or anything that brings you joy.
6. Chewing Gum Can Reduce Stress
Chewing gum can help reduce stress and increase focus. Studies have shown that chewing gum can help lower cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress, and improve cognitive performance.
7. Visualize Completing a Task to Avoid Procrastination
If you struggle with procrastination, try visualizing yourself completing a task before going to sleep. This technique helps to prime your brain for action and can make it easier to get started in the morning.
8. Fake a Smile to Improve Your Mood
The act of smiling can actually improve your mood, even if you don’t feel like it. By activating the facial muscles that are used during a genuine smile, you can trigger the release of endorphins, the body’s feel-good chemicals.
9. Borrow a Small Favor to Change Someone’s Perception
Asking someone for a small favor can actually change their perception of you. The theory behind this is that when people do something for someone else, they start to value that person more. This can be applied in a professional or personal setting, but be sure to only ask for favors that are reasonable and appropriate.
10. Write Down Worries to Alleviate Stress
If you’re feeling stressed or anxious, writing down your worries can help alleviate those feelings. By putting your thoughts on paper, you can gain clarity and perspective, and identify steps you can take to address your concerns.
11. Count to Five to Overcome Procrastination
When you find yourself procrastinating, try counting to five and then taking action. This technique helps to break the cycle of indecision and creates a sense of momentum that can help you get started on even the most daunting tasks.
12. Make an Effort to Stand Out in a Crowd
If you want to be more memorable, make an effort at the beginning and end of a meeting or event. Arriving a few minutes early, introducing yourself to new people, and offering a sincere goodbye can help you stand out and leave a positive impression.
13. Use Positive Visualization to Achieve Goals
Visualizing yourself achieving your goals can help increase motivation and success. By imagining the steps you need to take and the feelings associated with achieving those goals, you can create a roadmap for the future and build confidence in your ability to achieve what you set out to do.
14. Use the Power of Touch to Connect with Others
Touch is a powerful way to connect with others and convey trust and comfort. A simple handshake, high-five, or pat on the back can help build rapport and convey positive emotion.
15. Practice Self-compassion to Build Resilience
Practicing self-compassion can help build resilience and reduce stress. By acknowledging your own limitations and treating yourself with kindness, you can create a sense of warmth and acceptance that can help you weather life’s ups and downs.
In conclusion, these psychological tricks can help you improve your communication, decision-making, and overall wellbeing. But it’s important to use them in an ethical and responsible manner, without trying to manipulate others for personal gain. Incorporating these strategies into your daily routine can help you build stronger relationships, achieve your goals, and lead a more fulfilling life.