“Before you can control conditions, you must first control yourself. Self-mastery is the hardest job you will ever tackle. If you do not conquer self, you will be conquered by self. You may see at one and that same time both your best friend and your greatest enemy-by stepping in front of a mirror.”
– Napoleon Hill
If you want to appear confident and convincing before giving a presentation, follow the mirror technique recommended by Claude Bristol.
When people felt dejected about the circumstances they faced, Bristol made them stand before a full-length mirror and had them take a good look at themselves. He made them look into their own eyes and tell him what they saw. When people look at themselves, their dejection slowly transformed into cheerfulness, and the positive words they utter with conviction help transform their attitude.
In his own firm, Bristol put mirrors up everywhere, including beside the doorframe of the main door to the office, so it would always be the last thing salesmen would see as they left. Even during hard times, his staff dramatically outsold their competitors.
Follow these steps from Claude Bristol’s mirror technique to improve your positive attitude before any important presentation or event:
- Stand before a mirror, one that provides at least a waist-up reflection.
- Come to attention-stand fully erect, heels together, chest out, and head up.
- Breathe deeply three or four times until you feel a sense of power, strength and determination.
- Look into the very depth of your eyes. Tell yourself that you are going to get what you want-name it aloud so you can see your lips move and hear the words uttered.
Make the mirror technique a morning and evening habit. If you’re going to call on a tough prospect, use the mirror technique until you are convinced that you can convey your message without being nervous. If you’re a manager, and want to motivate your employees, teach them the mirror technique to them.