A magician doesn’t master his or her technique until it looks natural. An amateur will take this to mean they need to practice it until they get it.

The professional, however, understands something different. They will pay attention to every part of themselves when they are performing to see if any part of themselves is tense. Even the tiniest tell can signal an audience that something is happening the magician is trying to keep a secret.

Does your jaw clench? Do your shoulders hunch? Do you flex your abs? Do you stop breathing? Do your eyes suddenly become unnaturally fixated on something else? Do your toes curl?

These are all questions that must be asked and corrected if you want to come across as natural.

They can also be questions someone may ask when giving a presentation, learning a new skill or genuinely trying to enjoy a moment.

Telling yourself you’re relaxed is not the same as being fully relaxed.

Pay attention to every part of yourself.