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7 Signs That You Are Being Manipulated

Are you being manipulated?

By Paul WilksPublished 4 years ago 3 min read
7 Signs That You Are Being Manipulated
Photo by Louis Hansel on Unsplash

Some people are so obsessed with the phobia of manipulation that they see its signs in the most harmless conversation with their loved ones, who certainly do not want anything bad.

But for the most part, they are right: we are constantly manipulating, it is natural. But for a harmless manipulation that does not harm anyone, there is another notion - interaction.

Manipulation is a hidden influence. It is aimed at the person from whom it is intended to obtain a benefit, often to its detriment. There is always a hidden motive behind the manipulation, veiled under a decent motive.

Next, we will analyze the signs of manipulation.

Mirroring or copying the other person

It is much easier to gain someone's trust by copying their speech, gestures, position, etc. Many politicians, businessmen, and those for whom it is important to get someone's consent use this rule. At the same time, they may try to touch your hand or shoulder in passing. This gesture should alert you.

Lack of freedom to choose

Classic manipulation: "Will you stop by me until noon or after?" The manipulator does not examine the possibility that you may not come. But it gives you the illusion that you have the freedom to choose.

Blackmail over time

"Of course, you might be thinking about buying this apartment, but it's best to leave a pledge now because tonight others have to come and see it, who are very interested in buying it."

And you get caught in a trap if you don't realize that this is a classic technique. In the case of this type of manipulation, the unconscious feeling that you are losing the chance of your life appears.

Repetition is the mother of manipulation

If you hear the same idea, expressed in other words, it is an obvious sign that they are trying to infiltrate a certain idea.

If the seller, again and again, says that boots are the best choice because the heel is neither too high nor too low and with these boots, you will be able to stand all day long and in the evening at a party, you could stay In them, this is an attempt to infiltrate a reasoned thought of the buyer. It's not just sellers who apply this process.

"Everyone does that"

This trick never fails. He goes hand in hand with a trendy word - trend. It's fashionable. It's in vogue. You can't resist the latest trends. If you try to oppose or doubt, they will make fun of you or be bombarded with arguments, after which you will start to doubt that you are adequate… and very soon you will buy something that is in you. trend. Herd instinct is a terrible force.

Manipulation with feelings

If you are feeling guilty, embarrassed, or indebted to someone for talking to someone, you may be being manipulated in the dirtiest way. Dirty because it is the easiest to manipulate with feelings that are supposed to be related to morality, conscience, or culture. Any such manipulation will be like an exam for you, after which you will find out if you are a good person or not.

How not try to justify yourself when you are wrongfully accused of incompetence? Not only to justify yourself, but also to offer a discount for a service so that the customer leaves satisfied with you and satisfied with himself.

Although it seems that justice has prevailed, you have shown that you are competent and you have even tried to cover up an unpleasant incident, the client calmed down, agreed that you are a professional, and even expressed his gratitude… you have resentment. Therefore, this feeling occurs when the person becomes the target of manipulation, but not because he has behaved inappropriately.

Blow on vulnerabilities

If the manipulator knows your vulnerabilities, he will take advantage of them if he doesn't already. The beauty industry is based on this principle. The vulnerable point is the self-esteem of the woman, who is in a shaky realm.

The well-known slogan "Because I deserve it" is a manipulation based on the feeling of inferiority and distrust that most women experience in certain situations. Especially when it comes to a woman's appearance.

Take care of yourself and keep your mind clear!

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