10% Happier with Dan Harris The Science of Persuasion | Vanessa Bohns
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Jan 18, 2023 
In this engaging discussion, Vanessa Bohns, a social psychologist and Cornell professor, reveals how we often underestimate our own power of persuasion. She explores the discomfort of saying no and highlights the surprising impact of asking for favors in person. Bohns emphasizes the importance of personal connections over digital communication for true happiness. She also discusses the illusion of being unnoticed and the ethical responsibilities tied to influence, encouraging listeners to embrace their presence and awareness of their social impact.
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Penn Station Survey
- Vanessa Bohns found surveying strangers at Penn Station traumatic, yet her data revealed a high success rate.
- This sparked her research into the disconnect between perceived and actual influence.
Underestimating Influence
- People underestimate their influence, expecting more rejections than they receive. This holds true across demographics, demonstrated in lab studies.
Man on the Street Anxiety
- Dan Harris recalls his anxiety-inducing experiences doing "man on the street" interviews for TV news.
- This highlights the common fear of rejection when asking strangers for favors.
