Zeng Guofan’s “Ice Mirror” is a classic work about identifying and employing people, and its theory and practical application are of great significance in traditional Chinese culture and modern management. The following is a detailed introduction to the theory and practical application of “Ice Mirror”:
1、 Ice Mirror Theory
Divine Bone Theory
God “refers to a person’s spiritual temperament and inner qualities, which can be observed through external expressions such as eye contact, facial expressions, and behavior. Zeng Guofan believed that God is the primary criterion for observing people, and through observing God, one can judge a person’s character, wisdom, and talent.
Bone “refers to a person’s skeletal structure and physical characteristics. Although bones are influenced to some extent by genetics and growth environment, observing bones can provide a rough understanding of a person’s personality, temperament, and health status.
Appearance theory
Zeng Guofan described in detail in “Ice Mirror” how to identify a person’s personality and destiny by observing their appearance. He believes that a person’s appearance can reflect their inner world and potential abilities.
For example, he mentioned that “the five short and the many expensive, the two not prominent”, that is, people with short stature but regular facial features often have the fate of wealth, while people with tall stature but irregular facial features may have a mediocre fate.
Modality theory
Modal refers to a person’s emotional state and psychological expression. Zeng Guofan believed that by observing a person’s emotions, one can understand their personality traits and psychological state.
He divided modality into two types: steady state and tense. Constant state refers to a person’s usual emotional state, while tense refers to a person’s emotional response in a specific context. By observing the mood, one can judge whether a person’s personality is stable, impatient, and has a strong sense of authority.
Voice Theory
Zeng Guofan believed that sound is the external manifestation of inner activity, and one can understand people through listening to sound. He emphasized that the voice should be “clear, bright, harmonious, and moist”, which often represents inner purity, cheerful personality, and superior wisdom.
At the same time, he also pointed out that changes in sound can reflect people’s emotional changes and psychological states, and by observing changes in sound, one can understand their inner world.
Color theory
Skin tone refers to the color and luster of a person’s face. Zeng Guofan believed that complexion is an external manifestation of physical health and luck. By observing one’s complexion, one can judge their physical condition and fortune.
He pointed out that the complexion should be “yellow, moist, and bright”, which often represents good health and good fortune. A dull complexion or lack of vitality may indicate poor health or fortune.
2、 The practical application of “Ice Mirror”
Identifying people in the workplace
In the workplace, Zeng Guofan’s “Ice Mirror” theory can help managers better identify employees’ abilities and potential. By observing an employee’s demeanor, appearance, mood, voice, and complexion, one can determine whether they possess the qualities and abilities to hold a certain position.
At the same time, “Ice Mirror” can also help managers understand the personality traits and psychological states of employees, thereby better motivating employees and managing teams.
Interpersonal communication
In interpersonal communication, the theory of “Ice Mirror” can help people better understand the personality traits and inner world of others. By observing others’ expressions, appearances, moods, and other aspects, one can determine whether they are sincere, kind, and knowledgeable.
This helps people better grasp interpersonal relationships in social situations, avoid socializing with bad people, and also helps establish a good social network.
personal growth
By studying the theory of “Ice Mirror”, people can better understand their personality traits and psychological state. This helps individuals to engage in self reflection and growth, discover their strengths and weaknesses, and better plan their career development and life path.
At the same time, ‘Ice Mirror’ can also help people improve their observation and judgment skills, and better cope with various challenges and opportunities in life.
As a classic work on identifying and employing people, the theory and practical application of “Ice Mirror” are of great significance in both traditional Chinese culture and modern management. By studying the theory of “Ice Mirror”, people can better understand the personality traits and inner world of others, as well as better understand and improve themselves.