2.18.15 We Can All Be Wonder Woman

Recently while having lunch with a coworker, I mentioned I was having a low-energy day. Not a case of blues, really, just myself at partial volume.

She replied, “Do you know about the Wonder Woman pose?”

And before I could answer, she did the pose – feet shoulder width apart, hands on hips, straight back with her face looking directly forward and a slight smile on her face. Yep, right there in the lobby of the National Education Association, my friend did the Wonder Woman pose and encouraged me to join in. And I did.

She told me it was a power pose, something you could pull out when you are feeling down, need to pump yourself up for a big presentation or even before going to a party or other social situation. It’s intended to boost self-confidence and energy.

One pose, two minutes. How simple is that?

I’ve been doing my own bit of Wonder Woman research, and I have to tell you, it works. When I strike the pose and hold it for two minutes I feel more confident, centered, energetic and positive. What’s not to like about that?! No equipment necessary (although to avoid stares, you might want to do it behind closed doors).

I encourage you all to try the Wonder Woman pose when you need a little boost. Yes, even the fellas! Why not introduce it at your next staff meeting? Maybe even start your day with it to see if that impacts your energy?

Want to learn more about the effect of our body language on others, but perhaps more importantly, ourselves? Watch this engaging TED Talk from social psychologist, Amy Cuddy. And let us know if you try this or any other power poses – we would love to hear about it.

Posted by Bethe Almeras

on February 18, 2015