Boost Your Confidence Before a Presentation with the Power Pose

Power posing became widely popular after Amy Cuddy shared her groundbreaking research in a TED talk, where she revealed that assuming an open, expansive stance—one that makes you appear taller and wider—could actually change how you feel. According to Cuddy's findings, by adopting these poses, people not only appear more powerful but they also feel more confident and assertive. This discovery shook the world of body language and psychology, as it highlighted the profound connection between our body language and our psychological state.

Cuddy, a social psychologist and professor at Harvard Business School, originally became interested in this phenomenon while researching nonverbal communication and the ways in which our physical posture can influence our emotions and behavior. She and her research team conducted a study in which participants engaged in "power poses" for two minutes before a high-stakes situation, like an interview. They found that those who struck power poses—such as standing with their hands on their hips (known as the "Wonder Woman" pose) or with their arms stretched wide—had elevated levels of testosterone, the hormone linked to power and confidence, and lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. This led to an increased sense of dominance and a higher likelihood of performing successfully.

So, what exactly are power poses?

A power pose—like standing tall with hands on your hips (think Wonder Woman)—signals confidence to your brain. This simple trick can help you feel in control before facing an audience. Your body language plays a crucial role in how others perceive you, but more importantly, how you perceive yourself. When you stand confidently, your brain follows suit, making you feel more powerful and reducing stress hormones like cortisol.

I did it .. and it worked! 

OMG, I shared this story soooo many times already.... a very important presentation in the chamber of commerce for 60 leaders.... went to the bathroom so nervous I could barely open the doors, they were sooo heavy, it was like I'm a six year old. 

Did my power posing...

On my way out I pushed the door with such superhuman strength they nearly flew off the hinges!!! I am not kidding you! The sound they made hitting the wall ... lucky for me no one saw that so I snuck back in, and straight on stage. I was an Amazon!!! 

How to Do It...

1. Find a private spot where you won’t feel self-conscious.

2. Stand with your feet firmly planted, hands on your hips or arms stretched out.

3. Hold the pose for two minutes, breathing deeply and focusing on positive thoughts.

4. Take deep breaths and step onto the stage with confidence!

Here's a video you can watch on power posing...

https://youtube.com/shorts/c9V9hLdj46I?si=Zf9pVvMluPXnzMza

XOX

Meta Groselj

PS: Try this technique before your next big presentation and see how it transforms your mindset. Want to master your public speaking skills? Check out my Stage Fright Course or book a free 30-minute consultation!