A book to return to
Psycho-Cybernetics
The main takeaway
Examine your self-image and practise the responses you want to bring into challenging situations.
The short summary
Drawing on his experience as a plastic surgeon, Maltz explores how people’s self-image can influence what they attempt. He proposes visualisation, mental rehearsal and relaxation, using the metaphor of a guidance system to describe pursuing goals and changing habitual responses.
One idea at a time
Key takeaways.
Idea 1
Examine self-descriptions
Maltz encourages readers to reconsider limiting labels and imagine how they could respond with greater confidence.
Idea 2
Rehearse an action mentally
His approach includes imagining yourself carrying out an action before attempting a situation that usually feels difficult.
Idea 3
Make room for relaxation
Maltz links a calmer mental state with practising new responses and pursuing chosen goals.
An everyday example
An illustrative example: a difficult conversation
Someone imagines listening carefully and speaking clearly, then practises aloud. During the actual conversation, they notice which responses need more practice.
Sources and credits
Ideas credited to Maxwell Maltz. This page uses original wording and an original everyday example.
Classic self-help based on personal observations and engineering metaphors. Its account of the mind requires separate scientific evaluation.
Penguin Random House: Psycho-Cybernetics