----By words and manner the subject must be made to realize that he is about to be hypnotized and that the operator fully understands how and is perfectly able to accomplish the act. The least doubt in the subject's mind in regard to this will render the operator's task more difficult. Don't say, "Now, if I can succeed in hypnotizing you," or "If you are a good subject," or "Perhaps I will not be able to hypnotize you the first time, but I will try." Such expressions destroy all confidence in the operator's ability. Speaking personally, if you indulge in such expression you must expect failure, or at least great difficulty in your attempts.

Make the subject realize the importance and almost solemnity of the occasion. To look upon the performance as a trifling act will be a hindrance. Let him understand that he is to be placed in an unconscious or semi-conscious state and that it means much to him. Create this feeling of awe and the rest of the work will be comparatively easy. If your subject is not in earnest, do not attempt to hypnotize him unless you are an expert, and even then, do not attempt it unless there is some special reason for doing so. You will soon learn to realize quickly the frame of mind of your subject.

Do not for mere self-gratification accept the challenge of anyone who says: "I dare you to hypnotize me." It is a waste of time and energy to trifle with persons who intend to resist your efforts. It is best to turn them off with a laugh, and some such remark as, "Well, if you'll name some future date I'll name the place, and then I will hypnotize you." If he should accept the proposition, select the most quiet and suitable room possible, as described in the chapter on "Influences," and you will be able to hypnotize him or any other person. An insincere person is not apt to accept the proposition, and if he should do so, your self-confidence and his voluntary submission to your conditions will render it easy to hypnotize him.

The concentration of thought, or first step in producing hypnosis, may be accomplished through the medium of any or all of the five senses - sight, hearing, touch, smell, taste. These are of importance in the order named and the impressions made through them must always be continuous and most moderate in degree.

There is no circumstance so well calculated to disturb the subject's mind and prevent hypnosis as attracting his attention to diverse and pronounced objects; while, on the contrary, the greatest aid to hypnosis consists in riveting the attention for a prolonged length of time upon some one object - vague and mysterious in character. Any one of a great variety of objects may be used, some of which will be mentioned.