Body language, which is best defined as a non-verbal form of communication showed through facial expressions, gestures, posture, and body movements, says a lot about one’s personality. In essence, if you want to achieve an effective personality, you will also need to improve your body language.
There are many ways you can improve your body language, but like most things, it needs practice and consistency so that it will become part of you, and not just something you can do for a certain period of time. If you want to develop your personality in a positive way, you need to be aware of your own body language and make sure it adheres to what is generally perceived as positive body language.
Basic Do’s for Body Language
These are just some of the different body language examples that you should follow.
Maintaining eye contact is a sign of respect and interest towards the other person. If someone is talking and you make sure you are keeping your eyes focused on them then this will make them feel that you are in fact interested in what they have to say.
Another body language is your facial expression. If you are always frowning, this would indicate that you have a negative aura, and this will push others away. Whereas if you are constantly seen smiling, you are going to attract other sunny and happy people to you.
Posture is also very important. You need to sit properly, avoid slouching, and if you can, keep an open posture at all times, leaning towards the speaker whenever necessary, to show that you are interested.
Don’ts for Body Language
Just as there are various body language movements and expressions you need to have, there are also those you need to do away with. These kinds of body language are negative, and not at all helpful in projecting a pleasant or winning personality.
• Fidgeting. This would only indicate nervousness and will make the other person doubt your credibility or your ability.
• Standing too close. When you are too close to someone, physically, it will make the other person uncomfortable and will also trigger them to think you are invading their personal space.
• Staring. Though it may not always be the case, staring is considered rude. While you maintain eye contact towards the other person, do not overdo it to the point of staring.
• Crossing your arms. This would indicate resistance on your part, so if someone is talking to you and you are crossing your arms, you will make the other person think that you really are not agreeing to what they have to say and you are making it known to them.
Practice Makes Perfect
As mentioned earlier, it is recommended that you keep practicing in order for these body languages to become natural for you. Now that you are already aware of the do’s and don’ts, you can easily figure out which ones you need to get used to and which ones you need to get rid of. And little by little, on a daily basis, you need to practice and maintain good body language. Constantly remind yourself of what gestures, movements, and expressions you should have until it will be innate in you.
Your personality can be molded into what you have always wanted. You can attain a winning personality which everyone will admire you for. While you can always work on the way you verbally communicate, improve your confidence, and build a positive aura around you, you also need to be aware of your own body language. Look at yourself in the mirror while you talk and notice every form of body language you portray. Are these positive? If there are those that you do not like, make an effort to eliminate them.
Great speakers are not born, they are made. Before they became great speakers, they underwent a rather difficult process of honing their skills, talents, and yes, even their personality. You too can become one as long as you are committed and geared towards self-improvement. It is not an easy feat, but it is possible, nonetheless.
