The human mind is an innovative hybrid that allows us to anticipate the future - to think big thoughts. That's the good news.
However, a growing number of psychologists and behavioral scientists are finding evidence that our brains are hard-wired for mistakes in today social environment, especially when it comes to assessing the personality and predicting behavior of people we encounter.
Why are we so bad at reading the intentions of others? Built on top of the older "emotional" parts of our mammalian circuitry, there is a "rational" cerebral cortex. The two are often at odds, and under the surface, our protective instincts are always lurking. Unfortunately the "emotional" circuitry frequently overwhelms the "rational" cortex. When we encounter people we simply give more weight to elements in their personalities that support our beloved preconceptions than to any evidence to the contrary. Thus we frequently completely miss the target and pay a price of our misjudgments. Most people do not listen with the intent to understand - they listen with the intent to reply or impress. This is never successful because the mind does not have simultaneous capability. Therefore, if you are contemplating your next statement, you are not focusing on his words, tones and actions.
In order to read a person like a book, you must get them to open up, get them talking. Getting people to open up is a skill that you can learn.
A skilled conversationalist uses specific question in three different categories. (1) Conversation starters. (2) Personal questions. (3) Philosophical questions. Once you've mastered a small inventory of optional questions you can switch categories to control the outcome.
QUESTIONS ARE THE KEY TO KNOWLEDGE and source of power. He who does not ask the right questions always hears the wrong answers. An unclear question has an infinite number of answers.
Many say that information is the path to power. The wealthiest people will tell you that it's their ability to make wise choices in dealing with people is their greatest asset. And that when they did make mistakes, it was often disastrous for them socially and financially.
By Oscar Bruce
About the Author: Oscar Bruce is considered the ultimate personal communications guru. His dynamic books are field manuals for mastering conversation and confrontations. His website offers several verbal strategies that can add power to your conversations at no cost. HIS FREE NEWSLETTER, "Talk Tips" is available at http://www.oscarbruce.com
Source: www.isnare.com