For example, instead of making up a story about going to a party, you may go to a party but lie about some of the details such as who else went and what you did. If you went out to eat with your family at a specific restaurant, you may lie and say you went to the restaurant with a date but tell the truth about what you ate.
For example, you probably shouldn’t lie about going to a party if your friend knows that your rarely go to them. Also think about the personality and traits of the person that you are lying to. You know the things that are likely to believe. What works on one person may not work on another. [4] X Research source
Consider audio and/or video recording yourself lying. This will help you identify any awkward pauses or mannerisms that you do that may give you away. The more you can practice the better. [6] X Research source If you rehearse a lot, it should feel very natural when you talk to the other person.
For example, if you are sneaking out of the house to go to a party, do not tell your friend what you are doing. Only tell your friend, “If anyone asks where I was on Friday night, tell them you have no idea. ” If you are lying about who you were out with, tell your friend your location, but do mention the people that were there. This way, your friend could confirm your location without blowing your cover.
For example, it is better to say, “I woke up late this morning,” than to say, “I drank coffee to stay up and work on this project last night and then I couldn’t fall asleep. I finally went to sleep and then it was so hard to get out of bed this morning. ” Only answer a question that a person asks you.
If you become anxious while you are lying and the person questions you, have an answer ready. For example, if the person asks if you are alright or why are you stuttering, tell them, “I’ve just been really stressed by school/work, sorry. ”[11] X Research source
Drink a lot of water 45 minutes before you plan to tell your lie. This will only work if you have to pee while you are telling the lie. Practicing self-control earlier in the day will not help you when it is time to tell your lie.
Avoid covering your mouth, throat, chest, head, or stomach when you are lying. These are all signs that you are not telling the truth. [13] X Research source
Avoid making awkward head movements as well. People tend to tilt their head to the side or bow their head down when they lie.
The person may come back and ask you something about the lie you told. You must keep the same story you had before. Telling the lie is often the easy part. Keeping up with the lie is more difficult.
Avoid using a computer or mobile device to carry out your lie. These things are easy to check and can get you in a lot of trouble. If you wrote something down, cut up the paper and throw it away.
To cut down on the number of lies you tell, do not lie to multiple people. Over time, it will be easier for you to remember the lie you told.
Plan out your lies and keep them to a minimum. Tell the truth the majority of the time. It will make you more trustworthy.
If you confess, you may say, “I didn’t tell the truth about ____. I’m really sorry. " If you are feeling guilty, confessing will make you feel better. [18] X Trustworthy Source American Psychological Association Leading scientific and professional organization of licensed psychologists Go to source
