Learn the Intricacies of Psychology

There are several psychology courses available which you can pursue to understand

the inner workings of the human mind. To become a mentalist, it is important to
master the knowledge of human behaviour and how our we think, act, believe or
perceive something. Psychology focuses on dwelling into the intricacies of the human
psyche which will further help you in developing the best magic tricks to leave people
amazed!

Develop Unflinching Concentration

All acts and performance of mentalists are pivoted against the length of their
concentrative power. Further, the importance of maintaining long durations of
concentration increases multifold owing to the back-breaking nature of acts, the
continuous need for innovating new tricks and acts and the composure to deal with
dynamic audiences. However, to develop professional-level focus, starting from
scratch is vital. So, to start with the process of how to become a mentalist, take a
beginner-level training routine to strengthen your focus and concentration and then
move on to advanced exercises.

Be Observant

The inherent nature of being sharp-eyed and mindful of the most uninteresting things
around one’s surroundings lies at the core of almost all philosophies of how to
become a mentalist. This includes reading body language, the art of catching lies,
following physical cues and quickly judging from sudden changes in a person’s
attitude along with a host of other elements. Be it noticing someone’s change of
appearance to one’s habits and more banal things around one’s life, developing an
observant and hawk-eyed attitude goes a long way for “There is nothing more
deceptive than an obvious fact”.

Inculcate the Habit of Improvisation

Becoming a professional mentalist is as much preparation as it is improvising on the

spot. Performing in front of large crowds and executing tricks requires the innate
ability to think on one’s feet and spontaneously. Another key step in the process of
how to become a mentalist is to master the art of improvisation. To become more
skilled at this, perform innumerable times alone or in front of the mirror or amongst
friends or small audiences, if possible. The underlying fact is to put yourself on the
spot, purposely create difficult situations or slip-ups that you expect can happen on
the d-day.

Learn from the Best

While it is crucial that you develop your own path to success, it is important to know
the journeys of successful performers and their insights on how to become a
mentalist. Browse through the list of popular mentalists such as Derren Brown, Marc
Paul, Uri Geller, amongst others, read their books, watch videos of their acts and the
explanatory videos of their tricks, if available. For starters, the most-recommended
texts on mentalism which you can refer to are Practical Mental Magic by Theodore
Anneman, Mind Reader by Lior Suchard and Tricks Of The Mind by Derren Brown.

Devise your Own Personal Tricks & Niche

Are you more interested in cards or playing with people’s minds? Do you feel your
mind is stuck with sleight hand tricks or all your prep is towards that one big trick that
can be your masterpiece? Well, whatever niche you choose and whichever avenue
you intend to pursue, working on your career aspirations and creating your own
signature, unique and personal tricks are the only way towards finding a successful
path to becoming a mentalist. 

Best Books to Learn Mentalism

The journey towards becoming a mentalist needs consistent practice and finding the
right mentor can be a difficult thing if you are just beginning to learn mentalism. Start
with going through different books by world’s best mentalists and master the tricks
they have created which will further help you carve your path. Take a look at the
following list of best books on Mentalism:

 13 Steps to Mentalism by Tony Corinda

 The Art of Mentalism by Bob Cassidy Vol. 2 by Bob Cassidy
 Devious Realities by Pere Turner
 Building Blocks by Luke Jermey
 Psychological Subtleties by Banachek
 Mind, Myth & Magic by Waters
 Practical Mental Magic by Theodore Anneman
 Encyclopedia of Mentalism & Mentalists by Tony Corinda