Posture? Poise? Body language? Nonverbal communication? Right now I bet you are squirming side to side in your seat while rolling your shoulders back (Don't worry, I am not watching you). Our nonverbal communication often governs how other people think and feel about us. It might be worth asking yourself, does our nonverbal communication govern how we think and feel about ourselves? Are there simple changes I can make right now in order to practice holding personal power and influence?
Think about the animal kingdom. When an animal wants to protect or influence they open themselves up, expand or make themselves big. The opposite happens when an animal is a victim or afraid. They will shrink themselves, coil up, or just hide. They may even simply play dead.
Now, I don't want to whack a hornets nest but women are frequently thought of as less powerful than men and don't have the luxury of getting a pass from making mistakes.  I hope one day that changes through more awareness and women recognizing how important their ideas and efforts truly are in more industries. Another determining factor of creating power and influence is found in our level of participation. Are you a wallflower in your life or are you actively participating? "IF you are going to make a "mistake" make it a BIG one!" That is how we learn! I can't tell you how many times I have tried and thought "Well, that didn't go like I thought it was going to. Pivot." NBD.
Do me a favor and stand up. No one is watching you, it's fine. Stand up and lift your chin slightly while lowering your shoulders and expanding your heart. Lift your eyes and feel your breath inhale and exhale. (Go ahead, I'll just hang out here until you feel complete.)
In contrast, tuck your chin, drop your eyes to the floor, and round your upper back. Do you notice how your heart is shut off or covered? Feel your breath. What differences did you notice physiologically and emotionally?
"Look up and hold your space" is a principle of Wyld. It is not necessary to exert power or dominance over others, rather positively influence. Subtle. Curious. Strong.
It is really that simple. Your physiology CAN change how you show up, most importantly how you show up for yourself.
PS. Through awareness, there are simple and effective ways to practice holding your power. Try making eye contact in the mirror and breathing or when you enter a new space/room lift your eyes and make eye contact with those around you. This is a gift that keeps on giving.