View The TED Talk: Your Body Language Shapes Who You Are

View The Ted Talkyour Body Language Shapes Who You Arelinks To An Ex

View the TED Talk “Your Body Language Shapes Who You Are” by Amy Cuddy (TEDGlobal, 2012). In light of her talk, your personal experiences, and what you have learned thus far from the course, write a response in which you: State what it is about her talk that strikes you as most interesting. Share something from your reading of the course text on nonverbal communication that made an impression on you. Share what it is that you will take from her talk and/or the text as a way of improving your own nonverbal communication competence.

Paper For Above instruction

The TED Talk “Your Body Language Shapes Who You Are” by Amy Cuddy offers profound insights into the power of nonverbal communication and how it can influence not only how others perceive us but also our own perceptions of ourselves. The most compelling aspect of Cuddy's presentation that resonates deeply is her assertion that “power posing” can significantly impact our confidence levels and stress responses. She illustrates this with scientific experiments demonstrating that adopting expansive, open postures—what she refers to as “high-power poses”—can lead to increased feelings of confidence and even tangible physiological changes, such as increased testosterone and decreased cortisol levels. This idea that body language can shape our mental state is both fascinating and empowering because it suggests that small, deliberate changes in our postures can have a profound impact on our performance and self-perception.

From my reading of the course text on nonverbal communication, one particular concept that made a lasting impression is the notion that nonverbal cues often communicate more than verbal messages. For example, gestures, facial expressions, and posture can reveal authentic emotions and attitudes, sometimes even contradicting spoken words. The textbook emphasizes that nonverbal behavior can serve as a mirror of our internal states, providing cues to others about our confidence, engagement, or discomfort. Understanding this dynamic underscores the importance of self-awareness and intentionality in our nonverbal actions. It reinforced the idea that mastering nonverbal communication is not merely about controlling one's gestures but about aligning our body language with our intended message and emotional state.

From Cuddy's talk and the course reading, I will take away the importance of awareness and proactive control over my body language to enhance my communication efficacy. Specifically, I plan to incorporate “power poses” into situations where I need to project confidence, such as during presentations or interviews. By consciously adopting open, expansive postures, I can influence my internal state, making me feel more self-assured and reducing anxiety. Additionally, I will strive to be more mindful of my facial expressions and gestures in everyday interactions, ensuring they reflect engagement and positivity. This intentionality can improve my rapport with others, foster trust, and establish a more competent and approachable presence.

In conclusion, Amy Cuddy's research and insights, complemented by the foundational principles outlined in the course text, highlight the profound impact of nonverbal communication on personal efficacy and social perception. Recognizing the power of body language and actively working to align nonverbal cues with our desired self-image can lead to more confident interactions and personal growth. As I continue to develop my nonverbal communication skills, I am motivated to practice deliberate postures and gestures that reinforce my confidence and authenticity, thereby enhancing my overall interpersonal effectiveness.

References

Cuddy, A. (2012). Your Body Language Shapes Who You Are [Video]. TEDGlobal. https://www.ted.com/talks/amy_cuddy_your_body_language_shapes_who_you_are

Burgoon, J. K., Guerrero, L. K., & Floyd, K. (2016). Nonverbal Communication. Routledge.

Knapp, M. L., & Hall, J. A. (2010). Nonverbal Communication in Human Interaction (7th ed.). Wadsworth Publishing.

Mehrabian, A. (1971). Silent Messages. Wadsworth Publishing.

Pease, A., & Pease, B. (2004). The Definitive Book of Body Language. Bantam.

Burgoon, J. K., & Guerrero, L. K. (2011). Nonverbal Communication. Routledge.

Ekman, P., & Friesen, W. V. (1969). The Display of Unemotion. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 9(3), 292-299.

Hall, E. T. (1966). The Hidden Dimension: Man's Use of Space in Public and Private. Doubleday.

Argyle, M. (1988). Bodily communication (2nd ed.). Routledge.