Stand tall Plant your feet firmly on the ground, square your hips, and pull your shoulders back and down to exhibit good posture. Not only will you look taller, but you will exude confidence. Strike a power pose Power poses are about owning your space and can be done sitting or standing. Before entering a particularly stressful situation, try standing tall with your feet hip-width apart, make a V with (your hands over your head), and stretch your body upward. The following power poses are a little more subtle and can be done just about anywhere: 1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart with your hands on your hips. 2. Lean back in your chair with your arms placed on the arm rests. 3. When standing next to a wall, gently lean against it with upright posture (rather than slouching). Still your arms and hands Confident “open” positions leave your face and body visible, so uncross your arms to appear more confident. Here are 3 ideas for what to do with your hands to appear more confident: 1. Clasp your hands behind your head or back. 2. If your hands are in your pockets, leave your thumbs exposed. 3. Make a steeple with your hands and place them on the desk or table in front of you. Use controlled gestures Talking with your hands is a common habit, but too much gesticulating can make you look anxious. Keep your elbows to your sides and use open, relaxed gestures with your hands when giving a presentation or in casual conversation. Express gratitude Psychological studies have shown that gratitude can boost self esteem and ease social anxiety. Take some time each day to think about (or write down) a few things you’re grateful for. Use affirmations Talk to yourself! Positive affirmations can boost your confidence, joy, and mental health. Try saying these three affirmations out loud: 1. I am learning, growing, and changing for the better each day. 2. I believe in my skills and abilities. 3. I love the person I am becoming. Visualize If you have a presentation or daunting task coming up, visualize yourself succeeding. To empower yourself in everyday social situations, visualize yourself standing tall and interacting with confidence. Exercise Numerous studies have shown the confidence-boosting power of daily exercise. Even if you can’t get to the gym, do some pushups, jumping jacks, lunges, or crunches during small breaks throughout the day to release feel-good endorphins. Learn to take compliments It’s common to dismiss compliments by responding, “I guess I did okay,” or, “That was no big deal,” but doing so is a form of deflection and selling yourself short. Learn to take compliments with a sincere “Thank you” to validate your skills and accomplishments to yourself. Sources: http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.716.5248&rep=rep1&type=pdf https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/01/140109101742.htm