What Can I Do with Perceptual Positions?

Perceptual Positions are not merely ideas; they are practical tools for change.

They are handy when:

• Emotions are so strong that clear thinking is difficult
• Confusion, intimidation, or hurt dominate an interaction
• The desire for revenge overpowers the search for a solution
• Old, critical voices or attacks on identity interfere with confidence

By deliberately choosing a different position, you can:

• Reduce emotional intensity when it becomes unhelpful
• Strengthen empathy when relationships feel strained
• Build confidence and resourceful states for future encounters

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A Simple Exercise: Building Charisma with Perceptual Positions

You can explore Perceptual Positions with a straightforward visualisation.

1. Choose a Situation
   Pick an upcoming meeting, interview, or conversation where you would like to feel more charismatic, confident, and engaging.
2. Step into Third Position – Watching the Movie
   • Imagine you are sitting in a cinema or watching a screen.
   • On that screen, you see a film of yourself walking towards the meeting.
   • As you watch, begin to “feed” your movie-self with a powerful, positive state:
   • Imagine golden, charismatic energy flowing into them.
   • Adjust their posture so they stand tall and move with ease.
   • See a confident expression on their face and a relaxed, purposeful stride.
3. Enrich the Image
   • Now watch the whole meeting (still from the cinema seat, with the sound off).
   • See your movie-self speaking, gesturing, smiling, and engaging.
   • Notice how clearly they communicate, how present they are, and how at ease.
   • Watch the others respond positively: nodding, smiling, shaking hands, perhaps even signing an agreement or offering the job/contract.
4. Notice Your State
   • As you watch this improved version of yourself, notice what begins to change in your own feelings, right now.
   • Allow some of that charisma and confidence to “soak back” into you.
   • Let your body subtly adopt the posture and expression of your movie-self.

This is not about casting a magic spell. It is a structured way of using the third position and imagery to generate a genuinely more positive and powerful state before you go into the real situation.