It has been said that eyes are the window of the soul.

American sculptor Hiram Powers said, “The eye is the window of the soul. The intellect, the will, are seen in the eye. The animals look for man’s intentions right into his eyes. Even a rat, when you hunt him and bring him to bay, looks you in the eye.”

Eyes are often viewed as the window to the soul because they can give clues as to what the person is thinking or how the person really feels.

Much can be learned from whether a person is willing to look us in the eye, or averts their gaze.

There is also something more genuine about a smile with the eyes rather than a smile with the mouth that can easily be false.

Now think: What do your eyes say about you?

Making eye contact shows interest, confidence, and respect.

Longer durations of eye contact express intimacy and sincerity. — Keep in mind, too much makes people uncomfortable.

Avoiding eye contact or glancing around when speaking shows deceit, or insincerity.

Is it possible to manipulate our eyes to allow us to be perceived how we want to be perceived?

The benefits of being aware of your eyes include: being in control of conversations ensuring the people you’re talking to are comfortable — which builds relationships. The ability to appear confident — even if you’re not.

This allows you to be a more able and potent communicator

Are there any tricks to make it easier?

If you’re having trouble at first, try looking in a small circle from the person’s left eye, to the right eye, and to the mouth. This will help with practicing eye contact while still appearing attentive.

Remember, don’t make people uncomfortable. If they start to look that way, stop.

Learning to be aware of and to control your eyes takes great discipline but helps you to become a social magician.