Sensory-Acuity for Better Listening
Sensory-Acuity for Better Listening
Micro-expressions reveal everything
Hi, it’s Clive. I wrote this for high achieving, ambitious individuals who are exploring elite level performance. Let's exchange what's predictable for what's possible.
This week, you’ll learn about a form of body language most people don’t notice at a conscious level – micro-expressions. I found learning this skill was useful in my coaching and facilitation practice, as well as for other time when I wanted to hone my influence. It’s powerful stuff:
What you’re missing in conversations
The Contradiction Game
3 advanced techniques
Why this is an essential skill for high achievers
Reading time: 4 minutes
What if I told you that people are constantly revealing their hidden emotions, and you're missing it all?
Every day, in every conversation, people broadcast their true feelings through micro-expressions that last for a fraction of a second. Blink, and you'll miss it. This isn't just interesting – it's a superpower you can develop.
Imagine:
In a high-stakes negotiation, your counterpart says they're happy with your offer, but their face tells a different story.
In a crucial team meeting, your colleague verbally agrees with your idea while shaking their head in disagreement.
Wouldn't noticing these contradictions change your approach?
Here's the thing – words can lie, but faces are brutally honest. And the best part? This isn't some mystical mind-reading. It's a learnable skill.
Let's explore how you can develop this ability.
The Contradiction Game
Start honing your micro-expression detection with this simple exercise:
Partner with someone you trust who's also interested in improving their influence.
Take turns as speaker and observer.
Speaker: Recall a time you felt a strong emotion (anxious, curious, excited, etc.).
Relive that feeling, then make statements contradicting it. (e.g., say "I'm excited about this project" while feeling anxious)
Observer: Identify the genuine emotion from the speaker's micro-expressions.
The more you play, the better you'll spot disconnects between words and true feelings. It's like developing a sixth sense for emotional authenticity.
Ready to level up?
Try these advanced techniques:
'Soft focus': Look between the person's eyes instead of direct eye contact. This engages your peripheral vision to catch micro-expressions across their entire face.
'Micro-expression log': After important conversations, note any fleeting expressions you noticed. Review regularly to identify patterns and improve accuracy.
Movie scene analysis: Watch emotional scenes from movies on mute. Identify emotions purely from facial expressions, then rewatch with sound to check your accuracy.
As you practice, you'll see nonverbal communication unfold before your eyes. Remember, this isn't about manipulation – it's about deeper understanding and connection beyond words.
Micro-expression detection is a crucial skill for high achievers and provides a significant edge in high-stakes situations such as decision-making and leadership.
It enables more effective negotiations, team management, and strategic planning. And it enhances the interpersonal relationships that contribute to your personal growth and professional success.
Ready to see the world in a whole new way? I'd love to hear about your experiences. What did you notice? What surprised you?
I read every response personally.
Until next time,
Clive
🚀 Before you go, let me ask — do you want to unlock your own performance and growth potential?
I work 1:1 with highly ambitious achievers on their agenda: including mindset and behaviour change, leading others in a high stakes situations, and influencing decisions with integrity. If that’s for you please get in touch.