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People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones I work in an office. When people stop by my desk and refuse to leave me alone, I get up and refill my water bottle while they are talking to me. Instead of walking back to my desk, I walk them to theirs. They instinctively will sit down. Then I just sever the conversation and get back to work.

Electricpants , Andy Davies Report

Final score:

488points

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A Cat Named Dragon 3 years ago

This should be higher!

43points

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones When my wife is talking to a man about something technical, often he'll talk back to me. When that happens I turn to face my wife, which forces his attention where it should be.

stangelm , Julien Dumont Report

Final score:

477points

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A Cat Named Dragon 3 years ago

I do this when there are two people listening to someone tell a story and, for whatever reason, the person talking is only focusing on me but I wish they would instead focus kn the other person.

82points

To find out what an expert has to say about these psychological tricks, Bored Panda reached out to Susan Petang, a certified life coach, teaching adults and teens. Susan runs “The Quiet Zone Coaching” and she has now prepared a set of essential life skills and solution for anyone who’s preparing for the post-pandemic world.

When it comes to mind tricks, Susan said that everyone uses one from one time to time, even if they're unaware they're doing it. Moreover, “There are many psychological tricks floating around out there—I couldn't possibly name them all,” the life coach explained.

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones To avoid workplace drama and be liked, compliment people behind their back.

Unknown , Free-Photos Report

Final score:

456points

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Aurelia! 3 years ago

That's a sweet idea

95points

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones Be direct and personal when you need things. Instead of asking IF anyone has an EpiPen, ask WHO has an EpiPen. Instead of saying, 'Someone call 911,' point to someone and say, 'Go call 911 and come tell me when they are on the way.

Polyfkery , Tony Webster Report

Final score:

397points

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Enuya 3 years ago

Also, instead of "somebody help", try for example "you, in red t-shirt, help me". Person asked directly will be more likely to respond.

160points

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones If you look happy to see someone every time you see them, they will eventually be happy to see you.

2pass2 , Benjamin Linh VU Report

Final score:

387points

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YourAveragePooh 3 years ago (edited)

I smile, You smile, We all Smile ;)

93points

“One I use frequently (which isn't really a 'trick,' but a communication tool) is called reflective listening,” Susan said and added: “Often other people just want to be heard, and this tool provides not only that, but helps clarify information so misunderstandings don't occur.”

Some examples of the reflective listening include: "It sounds like you feel...", "I'm hearing that you want...", "It seems like you're upset about...", "I see that you're feeling..."

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones Don’t apologise. Thank them.

When you’re delivering food that’s taken a while to cook don’t say “sorry for the delay,” say “thanks for your patience”

Saying sorry focuses on your fault. Thanking focuses on their good quality.

Conchobar8 , Sam Saunders Report

Final score:

358points

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Jessica Shookhoff 3 years ago

I actually do this with my kids when I can't get them what they want/need right away. It really does make a difference and reinforces positive behavior.

26points

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones I currently manage around 240 people among six restaurants. It is often hard to get them to do what is needed. I have found that saying, 'I need your help' is effective in getting them on board. People want to feel needed and that they are making a difference. Expressing that need to them as much as possible makes all the difference in the world.

aaronmicook , Neilvert Noval Report

Final score:

350points

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Kevin Donegan 3 years ago

Identify employees to be in charge of certain parts of the process ... if the drink station is always a mess, identify someone to routinely check on it and clean/organize as needed. If you see the drink station in chaos, go back to the person you put in charge and figure out what the issue is ... if "everybody" in charge of something, then "no one" is in charge because non one takes responsibility.

19points

katiebugdisney , Pedro Ribeiro Simões Report

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones Don’t say “it’s okay” when someone apologizes. Say something like, “thank you for apologizing.”

if someone needs to apologize to you, then it was something that isn’t okay. my mom teaches this to her kindergartners and it really does make a difference. opens doors for growth and conversation too. “thank you for apologizing, I don’t like it when you hit me.” or whatever.

Final score:

344points

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H Edwards 3 years ago

Unless the person apologising really doesn't need to. As a Brit, I probably apologise way too often.

101points

In fact, “a lot of those little psychological 'tricks' we use come from our families. We either mimic what we hear growing up, or do the opposite because, as we are more aware of those around us as we mature, we find the way we learned to communicate from our parents distasteful.”

Susan warns that “if you try using a style or a trick that doesn't feel right to you, it'll come off sounding fake and manipulative.”

#10

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones Instead of asking, 'Do you have any questions?' I ask, 'What questions do you have?' The first almost always results in silence, while the second helps people feel comfortable asking questions.

MediocrePaladin , StockSnap Report

Final score:

304points

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𝕥𝕠𝕒𝕤𝕥 3 years ago

This comment has been deleted.

29points

FantomUnicorn , Pedro Ribeiro Simões Report

#11

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones Saying 'You're right!' instead of 'I know' makes you look less like a [jerk] and doesn't diminish something someone else may have just found out.

Final score:

296points

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Susan Green 3 years ago

This is so true. I wish more people knew this.

61points

#12

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones On an airplane, if my seatmate is hogging the armrest or being too chatty, I grab the barf bag. Works every time.

ab82bank , Frankie Roberto Report

Final score:

288points

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Friday 3 years ago

This clears the aisle when exiting the plane too

51points

On the other hand, one should use mind tricks and tools with caution since Susan warned that it is possible to do more harm than good with little psychological tricks. “For example, one little trick I read about is thanking someone for a trait they don't have. While that is usually very effective, it can backfire. For example, if you thank a coworker for being patient when she wasn't, she may think you're accepting her impatient behavior as 'patient'—and behave that way again.”

She also said that “Every situation and person is different. It's tough to create blanket techniques for dealing with others that are always effective, so learning to read the moods and motivations of others is a great skill.”

#13

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones When somebody shy is speaking, if you look at them and nod your head, it encourages them to keep talking.

unknown , Eugene Kim Report

Final score:

286points

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troufaki13 3 years ago

Many people don't listen at all, they just talk

84points

#14

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones give kids 2 choices instead of letting them pick from whatever

you control.

could be 2 points of time. like "now" or in 10 minutes,

or do you want the red or the blue shirt on

things like that

works wonderfully. they feel in control, but have absolutely no control.

can work with some adults too

______-_-___ , Efraimstochter Report

Final score:

281points

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Amy-Lee Kempi 3 years ago

Yes! That's a good trick! If you leave too much choice, they will be indecisive, but give them option A or B and it will be easier to choose and they'll be happy with the results because they 'decided' the outcome.

28points

Louloubelle 3 years ago

Because children will frequently pick inappropriate clothing for the time of year. My children often wanted to wear tank tops with no coats in the middle of winter, and the heaviest sweaters in summer, in spite of explanations. So, I learned to let them pick between temperature appropriate clothing. They eventually figured out what types of clothing needed to be worn at certain times. However, when it came to their own tastes, my attitude was - have at it. You want stripes and polka dots, go ahead. Make your own style.

17points

Pedro 3 years ago

Because you may at that particular moment have schedulles to keep a a whole lot of shît to do.

7points

Bobert Robertson 3 years ago

And they also won't leave the house looking like Mimi from the drew carey show every day

2points

Dynein 3 years ago

Well, they have SOME control; a bit of wiggle room for their personality. Likely a good trick for kids in their defiant phase, who insist of making their own choices but tend to neglect practical limitations, and also get easily overwhelmed with an abundance of choice. Would only use on older kids and adults if either of that applies, though... otherwise it's just infantilizing. (Mind you, a limited choice is often helpful even for adults, but 2 is just too restrictive.)

21points

Louloubelle 3 years ago

You're spot on about being overwhelmed. Sometimes this is just a good strategy for kids that turn into a deer in headlights when in an ice cream store with 31 flavors. They like having a voice, but sometimes need guidance. It's a fine line.

0points

J. Zingler 3 years ago

mMy mum tried that some 50 years ago, like do you want your milk from the blue or green mug? My answer, I do not want milk in a green or blue mug, I ´do not want milk at all.I was 3.

7points

Sawdust 3 years ago

Sam I Am would be proud.

2points

Shelp 3 years ago

But it doesn't work every time, I've seen young parents use it with no results haha

5points

Lj 3 years ago (edited)

True... "Fish or egg? I WANT BANANAAAA!!" Lol I guess it depends on the kid and how tired/moody they are at the moment.

1point

Pheolei 3 years ago

I do this with my husband lol He is very much "whatever you want babe" So when I give him the options it gives him the opportunity to choose for himself.

3points

Zophra 3 years ago

Me too! Me too! I narrow it down to 3 room paint color choices and he has the final choice.

3points

Lunaofthenest 3 years ago

Having too many choices usually ends in regret or indecision. I subscribe to Netflix, HBOmax & Disney+ and legit can never choose what to watch. Similarly, a child with seemingly unlimited options will have a harder time making a choice & often regrets a choice made from frustration.

3points

Easily Excitable Panda 3 years ago

It's not a question of control. It's a question of letting kids decide, and getting things done. They *participate* in decision-making.

3points

Raven Waters 3 years ago

This is going to be a gem for someone reading this who has a partner that has a hard time deciding what to eat, and what restaurant to go to. I'm putting this here because I think it's a good place for it. Example: Person 1 says "What should we have for dinner? Or, where do you want to eat?" Person 2 "I don't know. What do you feel like having". At this point Person 1 will tire of this as it's an ongoing ordeal. Person 1 will just say to Person 2 (when the indecision is obvious, and plans are not being made. Clock is ticking. Everyone is hungry!) Person 1 "Honey! Guess where we are going out for dinner?" Person 2 will spout out names of restaurants. Hope this helps.

2points

Beatrice Multhaupt 3 years ago

When iIwas 10 years old, my father,s friend and his wife, a social worker, volunteered to baby-sit me for the day. I was dropped off and Mr. Z. asked, ''What would you like to do today?''. His wife nearly collapsed in giggles because, of course, when dealing with a CHILD, you're supposed to give them two choices. Well, I said I'd like to go to the museum ( Mr, Z.) had never been there; he turned a splotchy shade of purple and replied, ''But the museum is BIG'', while his wife giggled uncontrollably. ''I'd love to see the Egyptian section'', I replied. We drove there and the place was closed. Grief and disappointment on Mr. Z.'s face, ''I've just missed my only chance to see an exhibit with a competent person, he sighed.

2points

Sanne H. 3 years ago

Works well with assignments for the upper management too. Present them one outcome of the assignment and they come up with many changes (= additional work for you). Present them two or three outcomes to choose from, they will choose one and your work is done!

2points

80 Van 3 years ago

This has been very helpful with our 2-year-old. He loves feeling independent but has a hard time making a decision. We don’t care what pajamas he wears, but we do care that it takes 20 minutes for him to decide. Giving him two choices has been a great solution.

2points

Blakkur Sverrir 3 years ago

Tried with my kids. Never worked. If they do not want something, they do not want it. Now or in 10 minutes

2points

Charlotte A. 3 years ago

I think it's more of the kind "Do you want the pear icicle or the strawberry cone?" instead of asking them to point out one item in a list of 20 different and equally yummy things...

7points

Dillon Hughes 3 years ago

Yes children need structure. Kids are to overstimulated, weather it be video games or clothes. Let them chose but limited

1point

Ece Cenker 3 years ago

It also works with adults of a certain 300+ million people country's political and election system...can't really remember which one that was...

1point

D Gangwere 3 years ago

This also works with very confused people (who may be confused because they are drunk). You give them two choices: one that is very good for them (I will get a cab for you), and one that id very bad (I will need to call the cops). Give them the good option first. Never has failed me.

0points

Carlye Piparato 3 years ago

I hate hate hate parents who believe “what/which do you want/want to do?” is parenting. Hey people - making decisions is a learned behavior! Kids need to start small and see what happens. Sometimes the choice should be what THEY want to do vs what YOU know they should do - it might work, it might not - but learning by experience is powerful.

0points

Cydney Golden 3 years ago

This is the best way to teach children HOW to make choices. Offer two choices that are both acceptable to you. Then they can choose which is acceptable to them.

0points

Lindy Mac 3 years ago

Fabulous tip...if you say what do you want (eg: to eat) without 2 suggestions it's overwhelming ... I think I need to try that on MYSELF more. rotfl

0points

Joel Emmett 3 years ago

Also works with design clients.

0points

Diego Rivelino 3 years ago

It works perfectly in a bipartisan political system. American are like children.

0points

Diego Rivelino 3 years ago

It works in American politics. Americans are like kids.

0points

Jacqueline Wilson 3 years ago

You have two OPTIONS and ONE CHOICE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! A CHOICE between two options.

0points

M Kate McCulloch 3 years ago (edited)

It promotes choice and decision making without leaving the overwhelming world of all options. Love and Logic parenting. Also works on surly teenagers and adults. Would you like to take out the trash or put away the dishes?

0points

Pamela Scott 3 years ago

We were starting to have trouble with our daughter getting dressed for school in the morning so I got a sweater organized that had 7 slots. On the weekend she and I would select outfits to put in each one and when it came time for school instead 9f just saying you are wearing this she got to pick one of the outfits didn't matter which one. She eventually started setting up the outfits herself and that worked me out of the job.

0points

Mimic 3 years ago (edited)

I do this a lot with mine. "Pick shirt A or shirt B"...i don't care which shirt they pick I just want them to get dressed. They get to have control over and feel good about being decisive and I get a motivated kid getting ready.

0points

Rannveig Ess 3 years ago

If you ask a child a question you want them to choose the answer to, but really want them to choose *your* answer, put the "correct" choice last. As in, "Do you want to go for a walk or brush the dog?" They usually focus on and remember the last thing you've said so will repeat it. This also helps with elderly people who might have memory issues or are reluctant to make choices

0points

Jo Choto 3 years ago

Oh this is how I trained my daughter on all decision making, by giving her free rein of selecting from what I had already chosen. Worked great as a kid. She's completely indecisive as an adult though!

0points

Bob Builder 3 years ago

if you have two kids like me one will pick on and the other child will pick the other suggestion

0points

Anita Pickle 3 years ago

I wonder if this helps later in life though. Eventually they will be confronted with many choices, if choices have always been narrowed down for them would it then be very overwhelming to face choices alone?

0points

Elisabeth Breckenridge 3 years ago

Do you even have kids? Because this advice is useless. Sadly, kids will always choose option No, or option 1, 843 when you give them two choices.

0points

C.S. E. 3 years ago

I agree with the trick, but I disagree with the reasoning, it's manipulative. It's a great trick, it's been shown in studies that the more options, the more indecisive we are. But it's about allowing them to learn to make choices from options available, which is a good thing to learn, and focus their attention. But control? They are going to be a total helicopter parent.

0points

Elisabet Larsen 3 years ago

I have used it on people with dementia a lot of times. Not because I want control but if they cant make a choice with unlimited options. Then it helps them to have still have a say in their own life. Limited options isn' t always a bad thing.

0points

Dan Edwards 3 years ago

I want to put a caveat on this one. Too much gives them the sense they are in authority and develops an entitled mentality. You have to moderate control with humility.

0points

Rain WhiteBuffalo 3 years ago

Asking a picky eater what color vegetable they want with dinner instead of just asking what vegetables they want usually helps to get them to eat more healthy foods.

0points

Molly Block 3 years ago

This is great!! Does this work on husbands too? LOL

0points

Maria Batsouri 3 years ago

It's exactly the same with adults. Vote A or B..

0points

Crazy Dog Lady 3 years ago

Love this. I called it the "illusion of choice." It simplifies life. This concept is also why Trader Joes are so popular in the US.

0points

Giovanni d'Amaro 3 years ago

* Insert political joke *

0points

Aunt Messy 3 years ago

A friend's daughter (at around 3-4 years old) would absolutely freeze when she was getting dressed in the morning. She'd look at her closet and just melt down. The solved the problem by taking time the night before and picking two outfits. After that, the closet door stayed closed and in the morning, she only had two choices. No more meltdowns.

0points

Al Christensen 3 years ago

Unfortunately, for too many kids, the choice presented is, "Do you want to do what I say, or get hit?"

0points

Dobby The House Elf 3 years ago

I use this with my little sisters all the time! Instead of just asking them what they want and if they pick something they can't have and I have to say, 'no', I ask them to pick between two options they can have. It does work wonderfully!

0points

Nicola Roberts 3 years ago

I'm sure I read that Aldi or Lidl works the same way in the UK. Limited choice for them means quicker turnaround of stock, better buying power and probably tonnes of stuff I don't know. For the consumer it's a compromise, but you probably won't leave the shop with out a box of cheap cereal.

0points

*me* 3 years ago

My parents do that with my little brother already

0points

Jessica Shookhoff 3 years ago

"can work in some adults too" lmfao

0points

#15

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones When I do something bothersome to my husband and he goes quiet, I wait a few minutes and then ask him a seemingly innocent question, usually on the subject of how certain parts of a car works. This gets him talking about the car thing and he rambles for like five minutes, and then, bam! He’s happy again and not quietly brooding. I’ll never tell him I do this because I’m afraid it won’t work anymore if he knows about it. It’s foolproof, though; it works every single time, no matter how bothered he is.

alskdjfhgtk , StockSnap Report

Final score:

256points

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Kenya Tate 3 years ago

Same with mine and work!

28points

If you ever wonder whether anything you say or do may harm another person, you may want to ask yourself a couple of check-up questions. Susan counsels her clients to ask themselves these questions when they need to decide what to say or how to behave: “Am I hurting someone else?” (Think carefully!); “Am I hurting myself?” (Think carefully!); “Am I willing to accept the consequences of this action?”; “Does this fit in with my value system?”; “Would the person I want to be (or my hero) do or say this?”; “Is it kind?” (Kindness trumps honesty every time—unless someone is about to walk off a cliff!)

#16

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones "Tell me about your day. " instead of "How was your day?"

I do it when I really want to chat with a person and not get the usual "It's been OK" then nothing out of them after that.

Heard it on reddit a while back and I am amazed at how well it works. You get some info out of the person that you can maybe relate to, or help with or share similar ideas/stories.

Shuski_Cross , JourneyPure Rehab Report

Final score:

250points

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Aurelia! 3 years ago

I like this. When you don't say 'how was your day' it relieves some of the pressure to say 'good' or 'fine' and normalizes bad days. After all, bad days happen!

33points

#17

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones When I have something important to say to my kids, I say it very quietly so that they listen. They're immune to my yelling, but whispering gets their attention.

LastUsernameAvail , Thaliesin Report

Final score:

240points

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Jessica Shookhoff 3 years ago

Yeah, I've tried that, too. Glad it works for your kids, lol

59points

#18

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones If you need to deescalate someone and get them to communicate, ask them questions about numbers or personal information. I work in emergency services. If someone is totally distraught and shut down, asking their phone number, address, Social Security number, or birth date can pull them out of an emotional place and bring them back to a headspace where they can talk about what happened more easily. I often ask these questions even after I have the information, just to deescalate.

Orpheus91 , ernestoeslava Report

Final score:

234points

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Viviane 3 years ago

When my husband was mugged at knife point, he was too upset to act. I called the credit card company first, then got him on the phone to talk to them. Then I called the police, so he had to explain what happened.

49points

#19

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones At this point it's pretty well known, but Ive been using it for a few decades and has a special spot for me because I 'came up with it' (and was probably the 3 billionth person to 'come up with it').

Flip a coin if you cant decide something, and then follow whether or not you feel happy or disappointed with the result that it gives you.

Erudite_Delirium , Buster Benson Report

Final score:

220points

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ADHORTATOR 3 years ago

I love this one

36points

#20

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones I have a coworker who is an excessive talker. She has a heart of gold and means no harm whatsoever, but I don't have time to listen to her stream of consciousness every day. Anytime she comes into my office to chat, I give her a minute to get the gist out, and then I stand and walk out of my office. She always follows and continues yammering, and we walk right back to her cubicle. Sometimes I'll ditch her in the hallway under a guise of forgetting something at my desk. She hasnt noticed yet that I've been walking her back to her desk for months.

Tycho278 , vmiramontes Report

Final score:

188points

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kasa alex 3 years ago

I have a coworker like this!! She is one of the kindest people I know, but it can be tiring when she get chattering

58points

#21

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones Put headphones in and play the music that fits your hoped-for mood. It shifts me over to it mentally. It really helps when I need to calm down or when I need to feel happier.

sunflowersfornudes , Tal Atlas Report

Final score:

181points

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Aurelia! 3 years ago

Yes! Music is magic

56points

#22

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones When you are standing in a group and somebody tells a joke or something funny happens, people tend to look towards the person they like the most while laughing.

RiDDDiK1337 , Eugene Kim Report

Final score:

177points

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Shelp 3 years ago

This is a good, but also a dangerous advice

54points

Dutch Swimmer Goes Viral For Super Revealing Trunks During 2024 Olympics: “Is This Legal?”

See Also on Bored Panda

Thrill-Seeking Diver Jumps Down Extreme Waterslide, Ignoring The Strict Ban For Women

#23

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones If you're trying to pick out dinner with your partner, rather than ask, 'What do you want?' and getting the typical 'I don't know, anything' answer and then having suggestions shot down, start with, 'What do you NOT want? Used it a few times in some of my relationships, and it's the godsend question

FartKilometre , KaiPilger Report

Final score:

168points

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Aurelia! 3 years ago

I am SOOOO indecisive

22points

#24

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones If I desperately need to poo and I'm on my way to the bathroom (eg. driving home or walking to one) I'll imagine it in my mind as being really far away. This stops the urgency and I find I can get there calmly :-)

Funny1sland , Logan Ingalls Report

Final score:

163points

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DforDory 3 years ago

Now this is practical,to be honest!

49points

#25

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones If you need to remember something, think about it while doing something noticeably unusual. This will pair the memory with the "something", so that when it is noticed later on it will trigger that particular memory.

e.g. I need to take out the garbage before going to bed.

Put your pillow at the foot of your bed.

unknown , Hans Report

Final score:

157points

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A Cat Named Dragon 3 years ago

Good idea!

27points

Woman Put A Water Fountain With A Camera In Her Yard, Here Are 24 Photos Of Regular Visitors (New Pics)

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#26

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones Making people think that you need them is always better than asking them to simply do something for you.

i.e: instead of saying: "Can you do this for me?" you should say: "Listen I need you help; I can't do this."

Makes people feel good about themselves and even like you on a deeper level.

Doctor_Philly , Nicki Dugan Pogue Report

Final score:

154points

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What's In Your Head? 3 years ago

This is certainly true, but please don't make it obvious that you're just using a trick on them. It would be nice if you actually meant it. I've been tricked like this multiple times by one person in charge in my first workplace. I fell for for it and felt incredibly flattered, but then I caught on and just felt stupid. I still do, and it's a LONG time ago.

47points

#27

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones Say hello to everybody you know, and say it with a smile. Just imagine: If someone walks into you twice a year and both times you smile and greet them enthusiastically, they will think of you as a nice person. So little effort for a person to find you friendly!

sjuulbakkie , 818376 Report

Final score:

141points

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Bobert Robertson 3 years ago

"Hmmm Donny smiled at me both times I saw him, but both times he stole my wallet....I'm torn"

69points

#28

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones If you hand something to someone they will take it. It’s a lot of fun

surrrah , thanospal Report

Final score:

140points

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T. 3 years ago

Had this once done to me with a baby... Her father was like: "Can you hold her real quick?" And I was so baffled I just took her on my arm even though I didn't actually wanna do it in the first place. Was a funny situation in the end.

36points

#29

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones This is dumb and shouldn't work. But I'm a bartender. And if I ask someone if they want another drink and nod my head at the same time most people are inclined to do it.

LeadDeathKnight , StockSnap Report

Final score:

136points

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Some Cool Guy 3 years ago

Or most people just want another drink

94points

50 Of The Most Incredible Shots That Were Submitted To The Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards

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#30

Listen to someone without giving advice or asking for more information. This typically gets me more information than if I were to be pushy about it.

Drewby5 Report

Final score:

134points

POST

Dynein 3 years ago

Vague sounds of acknowledgement are good, which confirm you are actually listening but provide no further contribution. Best if they fit the intonation and emotion of what was said: Huh. Oh! Oh? God... Really? No way! etc

18points

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#31

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones To deescalate a situation or someone who is prone to violence, address them at one or two emotional levels below where they are. For example, If their anger is at a level 10, then you should come in at a level 8. Being completely calm, reserved, and polite only pisses people off more because you 'clearly don't understand the magnitude of the situation. If they are screaming and yelling, you need to come in loud — while not attacking them, and agreeing with them (to a point). When you agree with their anger, they are more open to listening to you. Works pretty much every time, though there may be a little up and down in the middle. Just follow the person's lead, while always being a level below them.

Cardfan60123 , Paul Cross Report

Final score:

43points

POST

Bettie-Jean Neal 3 years ago

I purposely get more calm when I fight with my mom. She gets more angry the more calm I get. It's kind of funny, but I do it in the hopes of calming her down. I'm soft spoken and she's a loud-mouth in general. I guess I could try this, but honestly, going from a 1 to a 5 would even be really hard for me.

17points

Woman Moves Out Of Parents' Home After They Asked Her To Give Her Space To Brother, They Freak Out

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Mom Leaves $250k Inheritance To Son, Throws A Fit When Daughter Stops Looking After Her

#32

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones My husband says, 'I will give you $50 if you hiccup two more times.' It works amazingly well — he's never had to pay me.

toxik0n , Deedee86 Report

Final score:

43points

POST

Shelp 3 years ago

I don't really understand how that's supposed to work

18points

#33

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones Thank someone for a trait you want them to have. Instead of telling a customer you’re sorry for the wait, tell them, 'Thank you for your patience or understanding.' Works wonders."

Hasp3 , Blake Wisz Report

Final score:

42points

POST

magnadar 3 years ago

Never thank a karen

1point

#34

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones I’m a professional poker player. When I am in a pot with one other player, I often try to make them laugh when they are thinking about what to do. If you can get them to laugh, it sets them in a mood where they are unlikely to bluff.

Amo4sho4sho , Abhay Kumar Report

Final score:

39points

POST

Son of Philosoraptor 3 years ago (edited)

I used to play poker in college, just $20 pots, nothing big. But I don't drink! Just don't like the flavor or the effect on me. Yeah, try being the only sober guy playing poker. Hilarious and profitable!

14points

#35

When you’re talking to someone, they will naturally fill silence. It’s subconscious. If you want them to keep talking, keep your own mouth shut. This is useful if you’re ever in a verbal altercation.

Trauma_Sturgeon Report

Final score:

33points

POST

Bettie-Jean Neal 3 years ago

Plus, it's fun to listen to someone dig their hole deeper and deeper while you stand there incredulous.

18points

Woman Refuses To Chip In For Babysitting Because She Doesn’t Even Have Kids, Asks If She’s A Jerk

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“This Breaks My Heart”: People Stunned—And Angry—After Woman Buys Lost Luggage From Airport

#36

This isn't something I've used but I think it's worth sharing. Derren Brown said that once there was a muscley drunk guy that wanted to beat him up and said the classic "what are you looking at." Derren replied with "the wall outside my house is four feet tall." The idea is that it puts the aggravated person on the back foot and takes them out of that adrenaline filled state. Anyways he sat down and the guy started crying to him about his gf. He is Derren Brown though so I wouldn't recommend this to everyone

unknown Report

Final score:

32points

POST

Shelp 3 years ago

But there's a risk the big muscley guy thinks you are making a fool out of him and gets even angrier

15points

#37

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones I work as a Creative Director. I have a lot of great clients, unfortunately with a few bad managers from their side. They usually go with the mantra of "If it's not my idea, it's not a good idea". I end up (sometimes) telling them about something Google, Tesla, Amazon, Samsung, Etc. is doing, and how we could try it. They jump at these ideas. The ideas are actually mine or my teams. Works like a charm.

Use this sparingly. Using it as an easy escape is not a good idea. It works, but know when to use it. If you use it all the time, it won't make you look any better. It will also allow people to be promoted who aren't capable of doing the job (pointed out by rutefoot [ Thank you]). Good luck everyone!

usrnmtkn1 , mwitt1337 Report

Final score:

31points

POST

Al Christensen 3 years ago

I used to be a creative director. Clients would often ask, "Why can't we just do what so-and-so is doing?" And I'd have to answer, "Because they're already doing it, it would infringe on their copyright, and your potential customers would think you're unoriginal."

9points

"I Didn't Start The Dryer": Karen Gets Taught A Lesson After Throwing Out Neighbor's Wet Clothes

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Guy Divorced 3 Years Ago Drops Off 3 Y.O. With His Ex-Wife Completely Out Of The Blue

#38

People Are Sharing Effective Psychological Tricks They Use And Here're 30 Of The Most Interesting Ones When you're in an argument, find something to agree on, then push your main point.

bobvella , Guian Bolisay Report

Final score:

29points

POST

Shelp 3 years ago

This is like the absolute ground level of manipulation. "You like children, right?" "Err, I guess so?" "So you must agree with me that abortion is an abomination" "..."

11points

#39

I have to work with kids a lot, having a summertime “job” where I volunteer to assist counselors at a camp for service hours and having five younger siblings. DONT tell them not to do something. If I told you, “DONT THINK ABOUT UNICORNS!” you’ll immediately think about unicorns for the split second I say it. If I instead said, “THINK ABOUT TURTLES!” you’ll think about turtles for at least that split second I said it. Don’t tell a kid not to something, rather tell them to do something else. Instead of “Don’t hit your sister!” say, “Let’s play a nice game with your sister.” That way you don’t put the idea into their mind that you don’t want them doing it, which, in their childish manner, fuels the fire to do it more.

AidanGe Report

Final score:

27points

POST

Not A Panda 3 years ago

Sorry, children SHOULD be told there are things they cannot do, and it should certainly be made clear from a very young age that violence is not acceptable. So you just rewarded a child that hit his or her sister with a game.... chew on that for a bit.

14points

College Student Does Exactly As Told After Roommates Demand They Keep Their Stuff In Their Room

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#40

I work with a bunch of idiot lawyers, and I use the phrase 'You’re correct' all the time. Even if it’s one teeny, tiny thing they’re correct about, it makes them feel smart and they instantly soften. It also keeps them listening because they’re hoping more flattery will come down the pike.

Haddonfield346 Report

Final score:

25points

POST

Susan Green 3 years ago

This could backfire too. They might end up thinking that they are always the smartest person in the room, even if they aren’t.

7points

#41

If someone says they have the hiccups, ask them to prove it. 9/10 times, their hiccups will disappear. Having to summon a hiccup in order to demonstrate will trick your diaphragm into just Not Hiccuping.

I've been able to twist it around on myself with some success as well, but it takes practice. You realize you have hiccups, then /try/ to hiccup. Actively try to make yourself do another one. It'll stop.

Le_Lorinel Report

Final score:

23points

POST

Chillace 3 years ago

Actually I like having hiccups

9points

I'm the Visual Editor at Bored Panda, responsible for ensuring that everything our audience sees is top-notch and well-researched. What I love most about my job? Discovering new things about the world and immersing myself in exceptional photography and art.

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Liucija Adomaite is a creative mind with years of experience in copywriting. She has a dynamic set of experiences from advertising, academia, and journalism. This time, she has set out on a journey to investigate the ways in which we communicate ideas on a large scale. Her current mission is to find a magic formula for how to make ideas, news, and other such things spread like a virus.

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What do you think ?

POST

Wouldiwas Shookspeared 3 years ago

I don’t know if this counts but if someone is crying or having a hard time DONT say it’s ok. It’s not ok. They are upset and not ok. Instead say like that’s seems really hard or yeah that guy is a jerk.

23points

Freya the Wanderer 3 years ago

Sometimes all people need is a sympathetic, unjudgmental ear.

8points

Mumof1 3 years ago

A quiet offer of help instead of "it's ok..." often works

1point

Ahimsa Soul 3 years ago

I agree with you. I usually say to my friends "you have good reason to be upset/sad/angry, so ahead and be upset/sad/angry. I'm here for you".

0points

Demi Zwaan 3 years ago

Too be honest, a lot of these tricks are awfully manipulative and often used by abusers. It's a fine line to thread, be careful.

11points

Charlotte A. 3 years ago

I think most of these tricks are innocent enough - and using them won't turn you into an abuser. That said, manipulative people will use them and others, for sure.

17points

Yort 3 years ago

Imagine being in an abusive relationship where someone picks up a barf bag to get you off their arm.

4points

tuzdayschild 3 years ago

Just be sure you are one of the ones who uses them for good.

1point

Monday 3 years ago

Manipulation is a part of daily life, not some awful buzz word. It all boils down to intent and method.

-1point

labaguette🥖️‍🥖️‍ 3 years ago

Love the post, but the amount of negative comments on here is astronomical.

8points

Michael Ward 3 years ago

When I worked at a petrol station as an attendant, on sunny days I wanted to be outside and pumping peoples fuel for them. But when it was raining I hated it out there. So I found it's all in how you ask. If I asked "do you need any help?" 90% of people reflexed answered "no", and I could walk back inside out of the rain, you'd get caught by that ten percent but it still had you going back inside soon enough. If I wanted to stay out I'd ask "can I do that for you" and seriously the percentages flipped, I'd say 90% of people answered "yes" to that, as soon as I'd finish with a car another would be there and I'd ask again and they'd say yes too, so then I could stay out in the sun pretty much for as long as I wanted.

4points

Rainbow Panda 3 years ago

This is a great post to bring awareness! 😃

2points

Verena Gitterle 3 years ago

When you want someone to be more agreeable, ask a question he/she HAS to answer with "Yes". When they once have said yes, they will be more open. If a person is shy, lower your voice and speak slowly and not too loud.

2points

Sanne H. 3 years ago (edited)

The yes-trick is a dangerous weapon when it is in the hands of sales people.

3points

turtledove 3 years ago

Sometimes if i want something or want to do something but i need permission, ill tell the person that im going to do it instead of asking if i can. "Im going to get icecream with my friends" instead of "can i get icecream with my friends"

1point

Chillace 3 years ago

these are great for scoial engineering

1point

Mimic 3 years ago

Many of these are active vs passive voice. In order to help in situations it's oftentimes better to be an active voice, using action verbs. When we speak passively it can oftentimes lead to being steamrolled/seen as indecisive or aloof. Not in every situation mind you, just a generalization. This also works with listening, being an active listener validates the speaker. You don't have to interject thoughts but maintaining eye contact, non verbal communication and sympathy/empathy really goes a long way.

0points

Jo Choto 3 years ago

There are some great techniques to get the most out of your interactions with others, but I don't like all these twisted paths from A to B. We need to learn how to communicate directly, respectfully and kindly to assert our boundaries, not play mind games with people.

0points

Yort 3 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

0points

Easily Excitable Panda 3 years ago

Some of these are really good ideas, but a lot are just manipulative. You should *mean* it when you ask for help, and be prepared to *do* something, not just pass it off to someone else.

0points

John Louis 3 years ago

I think that few of these techniques actually address the person's needs or interests. They are ways of manipulating someone.

0points

Logic and Reason 3 years ago

Handing someone something random is a very fun thing to do. If you’re engaged in a conversation and hand them something it works the best, they’ll just take it.

0points

Sarah Simons 3 years ago

This is off topic but does it say "eople" at the title for anyone else?

0points

Gandalf the Pink 3 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

Demi Zwaan 3 years ago

I would be completely weirded out if someone listen or talks to me with their eyes closed. That is definitely not an acceptable social behaviour in NL.

6points

POST

Wouldiwas Shookspeared 3 years ago

23points

Freya the Wanderer 3 years ago

Sometimes all people need is a sympathetic, unjudgmental ear.

8points

Mumof1 3 years ago

A quiet offer of help instead of "it's ok..." often works

1point

Ahimsa Soul 3 years ago

I agree with you. I usually say to my friends "you have good reason to be upset/sad/angry, so ahead and be upset/sad/angry. I'm here for you".

0points

Demi Zwaan 3 years ago

Too be honest, a lot of these tricks are awfully manipulative and often used by abusers. It's a fine line to thread, be careful.

11points

Charlotte A. 3 years ago

I think most of these tricks are innocent enough - and using them won't turn you into an abuser. That said, manipulative people will use them and others, for sure.

17points

Yort 3 years ago

Imagine being in an abusive relationship where someone picks up a barf bag to get you off their arm.

4points

tuzdayschild 3 years ago

Just be sure you are one of the ones who uses them for good.

1point

Monday 3 years ago

Manipulation is a part of daily life, not some awful buzz word. It all boils down to intent and method.

-1point

labaguette🥖️‍🥖️‍ 3 years ago

Love the post, but the amount of negative comments on here is astronomical.

8points

Michael Ward 3 years ago

4points

Rainbow Panda 3 years ago

This is a great post to bring awareness! 😃

2points

Verena Gitterle 3 years ago

2points

Sanne H. 3 years ago (edited)

The yes-trick is a dangerous weapon when it is in the hands of sales people.

3points

turtledove 3 years ago

1point

Chillace 3 years ago

these are great for scoial engineering

1point

Mimic 3 years ago

0points

Jo Choto 3 years ago

0points

Yort 3 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

0points

Easily Excitable Panda 3 years ago

Some of these are really good ideas, but a lot are just manipulative. You should *mean* it when you ask for help, and be prepared to *do* something, not just pass it off to someone else.

0points

John Louis 3 years ago

I think that few of these techniques actually address the person's needs or interests. They are ways of manipulating someone.

0points

Logic and Reason 3 years ago

Handing someone something random is a very fun thing to do. If you’re engaged in a conversation and hand them something it works the best, they’ll just take it.

0points

Sarah Simons 3 years ago

This is off topic but does it say "eople" at the title for anyone else?

0points

Gandalf the Pink 3 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

Demi Zwaan 3 years ago

I would be completely weirded out if someone listen or talks to me with their eyes closed. That is definitely not an acceptable social behaviour in NL.

6points