Here's how you can exude confidence and assertiveness through body language.

Have something worth listening to. Speak loudly enough that others can hear you. Stephen Hawking is prohibited from standing tall. But, what he said was worth listening to.

Listen to Your Mom: Stand Up Straight As you walk down the street, you may notice many people hunched over, engrossed in their phones with earbuds in. This habit can lead to a pattern of approaching others with poor posture and distracted attention, conveying a lack of confidence and disinterest in others. To project confidence and make a positive impression, maintain good posture, walk with a steady stride, and take a genuine interest in the people you meet.

Maintain an upright posture with your shoulders back and your head held high, projecting a sense of strength and self-assurance. Distribute your weight evenly on both feet and avoid slouching or leaning, as these can convey insecurity or uncertainty. Keep your movements deliberate and controlled, and ensure your stance is open and inviting rather than closed off or defensive. Standing tall naturally enhances your presence, creating a positive impression that communicates confidence and assertiveness to those around you.

There are many intangibles that make the best leaders stand out. Many of them are also not talked about often. One such intangible is utilizing effective body language. It's crucial for leaders because it communicates the unspoken elements of leadership that foster connection and trust. When you exude confidence and assertiveness through your posture, eye contact, and gestures, you convey credibility and authority without saying a word. This nonverbal communication helps others feel more secure and inspired by your presence, facilitating deeper engagement and collaboration. In essence, your body language bridges the gap between your words and actions, making your leadership more impactful and authentic.

Remember to focus on eye contact during virtual meetings. Spend at least half of the time, and especially when you're speaking, looking at your camera. This gives meeting participants the feeling of eye contact. Use the rest of the time to scan people's faces and body languages. Watch for signs of engagement or boredom, so you can change up your presentation style to either build on the engagement, or turn the boredom into action.

Making direct eye contact shows that you are engaged, trustworthy, and confident in what you are saying. Aim to hold eye contact for about 3-4 seconds at a time before briefly glancing away, which helps maintain a natural and comfortable interaction. Avoid staring, which can be perceived as aggressive, and instead, aim for a soft, steady gaze. When speaking in group settings, make eye contact with different individuals to create a connection with everyone. Maintaining appropriate eye contact conveys confidence, attentiveness, and respect, enhancing your overall presence and assertiveness.

Use deliberate and controlled hand movements to emphasize your points and convey your message. Avoid fidgeting, which can be distracting and suggest nervousness. Open gestures, such as spreading your hands apart with palms facing up, indicate openness and honesty. Keep your gestures natural and aligned with your words to enhance your communication. Avoid crossing your arms, as this can appear defensive or closed off. Instead, use gestures to project energy and enthusiasm, reinforcing your confidence and assertiveness in any interaction.

Lean in so the person with whom you are speaking knows that you are engaged, listening and a participant in the communication.

Keep your facial expressions relaxed and approachable; a genuine smile can convey friendliness and confidence. Ensure your expressions match the tone of your message – for example, a serious topic should be accompanied by a serious expression, while a light-hearted comment can be paired with a smile. Maintain a calm demeanor, avoiding overly animated or exaggerated expressions that might detract from your message. Eye contact and a confident facial expression reinforce your assertiveness, making your interactions more impactful and engaging. By managing your facial expressions effectively, you enhance your overall presence and convey a strong, confident attitude.

Speak with a clear, strong, and steady voice that is audible to your audience without shouting. Use diaphragmatic breathing to support your voice and avoid straining your vocal cords, which can weaken your delivery. Vary your pitch and tone to keep your audience engaged and emphasize key points, but ensure your overall tone remains firm and confident. Avoid fillers like "um" and "uh," which can undermine your authority. Practice pausing effectively to gather your thoughts and let important points resonate. By projecting your voice confidently, you enhance your presence and assertiveness, ensuring your message is heard and respected.

It's not just about WHERE you are, but HOW you are in that space. For instance, when you walk, do so with intention, letting each step show your purpose. In meetings, rather than just occupying a seat, claim your space. Sit upright, plant your feet firmly, and make use of the armrests to anchor your presence. Arrange your materials with care before you, signaling readiness and organization. These subtle cues can enhance the perception of your confidence and authority, reinforcing your presence without saying a word.

Your breath is a powerful tool not only for maintaining composure but also for grounding yourself in the present moment. When you focus on each inhale and exhale, you create a space where mindfulness can flourish, allowing you to navigate life's challenges with clarity and grace. In moments of stress, try closing your eyes and taking a slow, deep breath in through your nose, holding it for a few seconds, and then gently exhaling through your mouth. Repeat this process a few times and notice how your body begins to relax and your mind clears, making it easier to address whatever situation you're facing. Daily mindfulness exercises can enhance your overall well-being, improve your focus, and increase your emotional resilience.