Start with These 3 Subconscious Techniques
Blogpost by Dominik Messiaen
Why do so few people succeed in creating real change? How can you influence others without seeming forced? The answer lies in our brains. Only 5% of our decisions are conscious; the rest come from our subconscious brain. With an average of 35,000 daily choices, this isn’t surprising – if we made each decision consciously, we’d be exhausted before even leaving the house.
Daniel Kahneman, Nobel laureate, describes this as System 1 (our quick, automatic decisions) and System 2 (our conscious, slower choices). It’s no wonder the subconscious brain often takes over.
If you want to exert real influence, you need to tap into that subconscious brain. Our brains love familiar patterns and mental shortcuts, but these can sometimes lead to biases – automatic thinking errors that can have significant consequences.
In my lectures, I explain how to influence the subconscious mind based on Cialdini’s six principles of influence. In my workshops, I delve deeper into techniques such as framing, anchoring, priming, and nudging. Here are three practical tips to start working toward your goals right now:
1. Think in Terms of Possibilities, Not Limitations
Add the word “yet” to any negative thought. “I can’t speak Italian” becomes “I can’t speak Italian yet.” This small word shifts your mindset from fixed to growth. It creates space for development, and your brain believes it’s possible.
2. Set Concrete Goals and Visualize Them
Create a clear goal with a deadline, and visualize that you’ve already achieved it. Our subconscious brain doesn’t distinguish between fantasy and reality, so engage as many senses as possible. The more vivid the image, the more real it feels to your subconscious mind.
Another important tip! Write down your goal, date it, and sign it. Or share your plans with others, both offline and online. The principle of commitment and consistency pushes our brains to stick to what we’ve promised ourselves and others.
3. Choose Your Words Carefully
Avoid words like “try,” “not,” and “why.” Instead of saying, “I don’t want to live unhealthily,” say, “I want to eat healthily and exercise with friends.” Our subconscious can’t form an image around “not” and tends to focus on the unwanted outcome. Similarly, when you say “I’ll try,” you’re actually preparing your brain to fail. Instead, say, “I’m going to do it.”
And about “why” – opt for “how” questions instead. Why-questions often lead to excuses and negative thoughts, while how-questions, like “How can I solve this?”, move you forward and keep your brain actively searching for solutions.
These simple techniques make achieving your personal and business goals within reach.
Want to learn more about influencing the subconscious mind? In Dominik's interactive lectures and workshops, he guides you through the world of influence, supported by science and practical examples. Discover how to subtly steer behavior in a positive way – and achieve lasting, automatic results.
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