Unlike other emotions, surprise is the only emotion that requires interpretation.
This unique feature creates a proposition that can be considered the fundamental premise of this book.
The very meaning of surprise is that it can be easily manipulated.
--- p.26, from the "Preface"

The beliefs we have are not of our choosing.
Perhaps the word 'discovery' would be more appropriate than 'choice'.
When we reflect on our beliefs, we rarely know exactly how we came to have them in the first place.
It is impossible to have complete control over the process by which the brain decides whether or not to accept new information.
It is equally impossible to control actions or thoughts based on that information.
--- p.44, 「Chapter 1.
From “Faith Shapes Us”

When words of surprise work well, they can transform beliefs.
But generally speaking, faith must be maintained firmly.
It is good to have strong, yet functional beliefs, because volatile belief systems can lead to emotional turmoil and danger.
Survival takes precedence over right and wrong.
--- p.90, 「Chapter 2.
From “How Faith Functions”

When things go wrong and we face unintended consequences, we tend to blame external causes.
“I tripped and fell.” “You spilled the milk when you took it out.” “There was a lot of traffic, so I was late.” “You tricked me into getting the question wrong.” “I did this because of you.” The examples are endless.
Conversely, when things go as planned and you achieve the desired results, you take all the credit for it.
We only attribute good results to our own abilities when they are good.
--- p.125, 「Chapter 3.
From “Maintaining Strong Faith”

Surprise is a cognitive and emotional state experienced momentarily when an unexpected event occurs.
The experience that surprise evokes can be neutral, pleasant or unpleasant, positive or negative.
Surprise occurs when expectations are suddenly defied, and the intensity of the surprise varies.
The moment you realize that your expectations have suddenly been dashed, a window opens to acquire new knowledge.
--- p.181, 「Chapter 5.
From "The Surprise That Causes Reflection"

When you change someone's expectations, you fundamentally change their experience.
When a surprising event occurs, a window opens for making suggestions that can instantly spark new expectations and even lead to self-actualization.

--- p.202, 「Chapter 5.
From "The Surprise That Causes Reflection"

Once you understand how surprise works, you can no longer ignore the process by which new beliefs about yourself emerge.
Then you can consciously experience the process of developing new beliefs and become the true architect of your belief system.
--- p.245, 「Chapter 6.
From "Our surroundings are full of surprises"

To strategically leverage the element of surprise, you must either recognize moments when surprise occurs naturally or create it intentionally and systematically.
--- p.271, 「Chapter 7.
From “Strategically Utilizing Surprise”

A driver is a tool that can be used effectively when the right conditions are met.
The same goes for surprises.
Surprise can be a tool that can change someone's beliefs when the right conditions are met.
--- p.306, 「Chapter 8.
From "Activating Surprise"

Because laughter is a very powerful and usually spontaneous emotional response, it can be surprising when it occurs unexpectedly.
Spontaneity generally means a genuine and honest response that is not bound by social etiquette or political correctness.
Because laughter itself is so distracting, what follows is often remembered for a long time.
Laughter can hurt, or it can draw people in.
--- p.318, 「Chapter 8.
From "Activating Surprise"

One of the most important roles you can play in life is to positively influence someone and see them succeed in life.
--- p.403, from the “Conclusion”

You too can strategically enrich the lives of others.
The next time you have the opportunity to inspire someone, spark a new belief, and unlock their potential, ask yourself:
“How can I surprise this person and make him see himself in a new way?”

--- p.404, from the “Conclusion”