We talked a lot on Tuesday about Power Posing and I hope it got you thinking as much as it got me thinking.
This week I've seen people responding differently to what my non-verbal cues are saying. As a result, I've found myself more aware of everyone else's weak shrunken bodies or confident upright gorilla-statures. I can smell that confidence from a mile away and my oh my isn't. it. sexy.
Consciously standing tall and sitting upright to convince others what to think of me has caused me to reflect on what I think about myself.
I've always had a certain showmanship about me and am not afraid of being the center of attention. I don't mind taking the lead, I don't mind making a public fool of myself and as an athlete I grew to crave the spotlight.
That person I just described is me when I'm in a large crowd, in an anonymous setting or when it really counts for making an impression.
When things get a little more personal, that picture can change... for the worse.
Let's share a few experiences from my youth:
- I wrote notes to teachers and emails to my parents rather than having real conversations.
- My boyfriend from 5th to 6th grade and I only talked on AIM while at school I'd have my FRIENDS pass notes to him.
- I couldn't order my own food at a restaurant
- Through my adult years, I still had anxiety ordering food at a drive-thru window.
- I couldn't find the courage to speak up for myself, approach new people or make new friends until they invited me to the conversation.
What it was about these closer interactions that scared me is still a mystery and what continues to give me anxiety about personal interactions remains unanswered.
Just this past Monday I led a difficult conversation at the office in the morning, then that same evening I found myself introverted and timid walking into an Apple store for a Genius Bar appointment about my iPhone camera not working. (to which Dan shakes his head and helps me through it, but can't see what I'm so worried about)
What causes me to shine in the difficult situation and crumble in the ordinary everyday conversation? Ego I suppose.
Using the power of positive self-reinforcement through body language and visualization will really help me overcome these fears in my personal life while allowing improvement for the proud, confident and composed Jessi many see everyday.
Today's Throwback Thursday is brought to you by a little girl who's always had a little swagger in her walk and knew the right time to turn up the lights and let 'em shine.
4 comments
I love the TED talks you post! Always so interesting! I know what you mean about posture. We had a guest yoga/kickboxing teacher in high school who had us all stand squarely in front of the big mirror wall and just observe how we carried ourselves. Was really an eye opener for some of us!
Going to the chiropractor has also taught me how my posture affects my spinal health, and this incredible book is all about the movements/postures we're meant to be able to do with our bodies--reminded me of this! http://www.suppleleopard.com/ He's been interviewed on a bunch of my fave podcasts lately, like this one... listen if you get a chance! He's fun to listen to, too! http://www.fatburningman.com/dr-kelly-starrett-becoming-a-supple-leopard/
Loved that TED talk you shared, thank you; this image of you as a little girl in your post would be an amazing addition to the presentation, with Oprah and Jagger :)
i am the same way when it comes to be awkward in intimate situations, but i am sure glad that i took a leap and got a hold of you when i first moved up here :)
Yeah but you have an entertaining high pitched voice when you go awk!
I'm also THRILLED you reached out and that you invited me to a concert my dear friend.
Jessi from iPhone
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