We use body language all the time. Most of the time we use it to ‘get a feel’ for a situation.  We instinctively respond to people based on the feedback we get from their body language. This can apply to many areas of your life but is especially helpful at work where it is important to appear upbeat and competent while interacting with customers and co-workers.

We don’t often stop to think about how we come across to others with our own body language. Now I’m not suggesting that you become a body language bully or act like someone that you are not. I’m merely suggesting that you tweak your posture in a way that will boost your confidence while reducing your stress. Try this little experiment to see what you do.

How do you look if you are feeling nervous? Go ahead – act it out.  Hold this position for 2 minutes. Most people hunch their shoulders over with their eyes cast downward or bring they bring their arms close to their body.  Is this what you did? How does it make you feel? My guess is not very good and certainly not self-assured!

Think of yourself at work on a normal day. What is your posture like there? Generally people are huddled over to some degree. This is a very protective stance, it tells your brain to keep its defenses up because you are not feeling entirely comfortable or safe. No wonder we often feel anxious by the end of the day!

Now stand or sit up tall, really stretch out through your limbs and place your hands on your hips or if you’re really brave (and alone!) raise your arms in a big ‘victory V’ over your head, like you just scored the winning touchdown.  Lift your gaze up to meet the world and imagine there is ‘another you’ on either side of you (an old theater trick to help give you a larger presence.)

Imagine a day where you feel centered and grounded, your actions and decisions match up perfectly with your values and priorities. You trust yourself COMPLETELY with no doubts. What does your face look like? This is your game face!  Put it on along with your victory posture and hold for 2 minutes. How does this feel different?

I highly encourage you to watch these wonderful videos with social psychologist, Amy Cuddy talking about how your body language shapes who you are by telling your brain what to feel. Huh! I guess we are more like animals than we think!

http://www.ted.com/talks/amy_cuddy_your_body_language_shapes_who_you_are.html