Astute Observational Powers

[truthistruth]

How to BUILD Astute Observational Powers?

 

[Jules Verne]

You can start with mystery novels. Sherlock Holmes and Hercule Poirot shaped my childhood.

Furthermore, you can learn more about body language, connecting people through interaction, and cultural differences.

Every person you see from there is an opportunity to practice your skill.

 

[SmoothTalker]

Do you mean with people, or just everything in general?

For general, I've heard (but haven't tried yet) that an effective exercise is to start forcing yourself to make useful new observations every day. It doesn't have to be anything profound, just be more observant all the time. For example, next time you're walking a familiar path, notice where the big crack in the sidewalk is, notice how many steps are on the stairs in your house, notice the colour of your neighbours door, etc. Over time this should get you into the habit of noticing a lot.

For people, unfortunately I find my ability to predict behaviour greatly increased when I started being more cynical. A LOT of behaviour is easily explained if you think of people acting only in their own selfish interests.

 

[Paradox]

A LOT of behaviour is easily explained if you think of people acting only in their own selfish interests.

This is quite true. People often do not think about the welfare and feelings of others before taking action.

Our every action affects not only our future but the future of others.

Detective novels, stories, Detective and CSI like TV shows can definitely help.

One female poker player (Anne Duke?) also uses FBI profiling techniques.

If you are interested in catching liars there is a TV show about that. I forget the name.

 

[theunflushables]

From observing.