From a bestselling author and the most-followed psychologist on Twitter, this “intriguing new slant to personal transformation" (Kirkus Reviews) shows you how to take control of your life in an instant. If you’re happy on the inside, you’ll show it on the outside. Or is it the other way around—smile first, and then you’ll be happy? Victorian philosopher William James had a theory about this that led him to a remarkable conclusion: “If you want a quality, act as if you already have it." Motivated by James’s discovery, renowned psychologist and bestselling author Richard Wiseman confirms James’s principle and shows how the self-help genre has for too long put the cart before the horse in trying to help us take control of our lives. Bringing to the table a dazzling array of firsthand experiments, surprising histories, and psychological case studies, Wiseman illustrates in brilliant detail how we can apply this principle to our daily lives. He recommends that you smile to be happier; clench your fist to increase willpower; eat with your non-dominant hand to lose weight; and act like a newlywed to rekindle your marriage. Empowering, engaging, and truly mind-changing, The As If Principle is a rare gem that offers workable solutions for your day-to-day goals while helping you to instantly take control of your emotions. Whether it’s quitting a bad habit, persevering through a difficult task, or achieving your dreams, The As If Principle can help. Don’t just think about changing your life. Do it. | The As If Principle by Richard Wiseman, Paperback | Indigo Chapters