Fake It Until You Become It

Hey guys! 

Today's post is very different... I want to share my thoughts on a Ted Talk with you. For those who don't know, a Ted Talk is a presentation given by an expert in a specific field. The goal of these videos is to promote thinking about controversial topics, or explain the "why" to many different parts of human behavior. Many of these Ted Talks are given by professors and social psychologists. There are a few videos that I have found incredibly inspiring and life changing. Today, I will be sharing one of them, but if you find these interesting, I'd be thrilled to do that! 

Back in 2012, Amy Cuddy, a social psychologist known for research on nonverbal behavior, presented her observations at a Ted Conference. The talk is called "Fake It Until You Become It". The talk is 21 minutes long, so I will give you a short rundown. Cuddy discusses how your body language effects you in all types of ways: your success, your friends, your emotions, etc... Body language is a form of nonverbal behavior those around you see. 

You always hear the saying "first impressions matter". Many associate use this with looks and a firm handshake, but some overlook that fact that body language is one of the most effective first impressions (for the better or worse). Cuddy discusses how body language can make you more likely to get a job, and how it changes your mood. 

Since I want you all to watch the talk, and not just hear my opinion on it, I'm going to stop there. On the other hand, I do want to explain my take-aways from the video. 

I believe this was the best 20 minutes I have ever spent. The video really sticks in my mind, and has helped me so much. Before a big test (think ACT/SAT for you highschoolers), I would go to the bathroom and practice some power poses. Not only did this calm me down, but I felt that I did better because I knew I was capable of taking the test. At first it seems stupid, but after you try it, I guarantee you will notice a difference with the way you carry and present yourself. Your mood will also be uplifted, and you will feel more confident. 

I know this was just a brief overview of a very meaningful Ted Talk, so click anywhere on this post to watch the video! 

Let me know what your thoughts on this video was, and what other Ted Talks you would recommend (99% of them are amazing and worth your while). 

Thank you so much for reading! 

XOXO,

Jordan