14 Powerful Mind Hacks You Should Know
Have you ever wondered why some people seem to know exactly how to manipulate situations to their advantage? These mental tricks only take a few seconds to produce astonishing results. Mastering these techniques means taking control of your interactions and understanding others better.
Ready to check out these hacks? Let's go!
1. The Benjamin Franklin Effect
Ask for a small favor → you'll be appreciated more.
This technique is based on the concept of cognitive dissonance: asking someone for a small favor creates an effect of "cognitive dissonance" : the person helping you unconsciously starts to like you more. Pretty cool, right?
Example :
You ask a colleague to lend you a pencil. Once they agree, you'll find that person finds you more likeable and will be more willing to cooperate with you in the future. It's a discreet way to improve your relationships.
2. Decide in 10 seconds
If it's not going to change your life in a year, choose quickly.
When faced with a decision, it can be helpful not to waste hours hesitating. If it won't radically change your life in a year, make the decision quickly.
Example :
You know, those decisions where you hesitate for hours and then finally say to yourself "I still haven't chosen." For these things, here's the trick: If it won't matter in 12 months, make the decision in 10 seconds. And if you're still lost, flip a coin. The reaction will reveal what you really want.
3. Your excuses are elegant lies
Changing the way you say no changes everything.
At some point, we've all used the excuse of "I don't have time", But doesn't that sound a little too vague? Try this version: "It's not important enough for me." It sounds more direct, and it allows you to be much more honest with yourself and with others.
Example :
Your friend suggests you go out shopping when you would prefer to stay home. Rather than saying "Sorry, I don't have time.", say rather "I prefer to keep my weekend quiet.". This way it's clearer and no one gets offended.
4. You're going to die. So do it now.
Remember that everything is temporary.
This thought may seem harsh, but it can inspire you to take action. In 100 years, everything will be forgotten. What seems crucial to you today will probably no longer be so in a few decades.
Example :
You're hesitant to travel alone to the other side of the world. Remember that you can't put off these dreams indefinitely. So, do it now, even if it means shaking up your routine a little. It will be a rewarding experience for life.
5. You're not tired... you're bored.
Your brain is on autopilot.
When you feel tired, it may be more a matter of lack of stimulation than a true need for rest. Sometimes, changing your activity can revive your energy.
Example :
At work, after hours spent on repetitive tasks, you feel tired. Instead of taking a break, try changing your environment. Go to a different workspace or change projects to reactivate your mental energy.
6. Reverse psychology on oneself
Tell yourself: "I can't do this."
Here's a pro mental hack: The brain loves a challenge. If you tell yourself something is impossible, guess what happens? Your brain will want to convince itself otherwise. And there you have it, motivation arrives.
Example :
You tell yourself you can't run 5 km, and your mind immediately reacts: “But yes, you can do it!” The mere act of stating the impossibility creates a desire to prove it wrong, and you find yourself accomplishing the goal you thought was out of reach.
7. The power of silence
After an important question, shut up.
Silence after a question creates tension and often prompts the other person to speak more to fill the gap. This can be very useful in a negotiation or serious discussion.
Example :
Want to know if your boss is ready to give you a raise? After asking, remain silent. This uncomfortable silence will encourage them to talk more than they intended. Silence creates discomfort, which will often push the other person to break the silence.
8. The technique of "Foot in the Door"
A small yes often leads to a big “yes.”
Here's a simple but ultra-effective technique: start with a small request. Once the person says " Yes ", you follow up with a bigger request. This little psychological game works all the time!
Example :
You ask a friend if they can like a photo on Instagram. Once they do, you follow up with: "Now can you share it?" Generally, after saying " Yes " once, the person is much more willing to accept your second request.
9. Anchoring Bias
The first news you hear influences everything else.
Anchoring bias means that the first piece of information you receive acts as a reference point for all subsequent decisions. This can be used to your advantage, especially during negotiations.
Example :
When making a purchase, if you see a high price first, all subsequent prices will seem more reasonable. For example, if you see an item for 200 $, and then see one for 120 $, you will suddenly find it more affordable, even if it is still expensive.
10. The technique of "Door in the Face"
Ask for something too big first, then for what you really want.
This method is based on the idea of first making an excessive request, then a more modest one that seems more reasonable in comparison.
Example :
When requesting service, you could say: "Can you help me all weekend?" The answer will probably be “no,” but then you ask: "Okay, just one hour?" The person will be more inclined to accept this more reasonable request.
11. The Zeigarnik Effect
The brain hates unfinished tasks.
Starting a task, even for a few minutes, creates mental pressure to finish it. The brain doesn't like unfinished tasks, and this can be a powerful motivator to finish what you've started.
Example :
You're procrastinating on a complicated task, like writing a report. Just start writing for 5 minutes. After this short period of time, you'll find that you're more motivated to finish the work because your brain feels the need to finish what you started.
12. Mirroring
Mimic gestures and body language to create a bond.
Subtly mimicking the body language of the person opposite you strengthens connection and fosters trust. But be careful not to overdo it!
Example :
If your conversation partner crosses their arms, do so too (but not too visibly). This little imitation creates a connection without them realizing it.
13. The principle of scarcity
If you want attention, be hard to reach.
Rare things are perceived as more valuable. You can use this principle to make your offers more attractive or to manage your time in a way that makes it more valuable.
Example :
If you want to attract attention to an offer, announce that there are only a few spots left or that these are the last copies available. This increases the perception of value and encourages immediate action. Scarcity always increases interest.
14. The Halo Effect
A positive trait radiates throughout the whole person.
A positive trait, such as beauty or confidence, can create an overall more favorable image of the person, influencing how they are perceived in other areas.
Example :
If a colleague arrives dressed neatly and shows confidence during a meeting, even if their skills are average, you might be more inclined to see them as competent and capable of handling important projects.
These 14 psychology tips are powerful tools for influencing others, making faster decisions, and better understanding others. They're simple to put into practice and can have a significant impact on your personal and professional life.
So why not try it today?
