Can a small change truly transform our entire profile? Today, we're exploring a concept that turns the impossible into possible, revealing the real us: "Fake it till you make it!"
From the moment we enter the world, every environment we communicate in sends a message, not just through our words but through our body language. Experts in body language say that everything from our facial expressions to our gestures carries distinct meanings. Often unconsciously, this language can label us as brave, shy, confident, lazy, or efficient.
Those familiar with psychology know about cognitive-behavioral therapy, which discusses how our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact in a broad spectrum. How we think can change our actions and feelings, and vice versa. This principle is where the core idea of "Fake it till you make it!" comes into play.
Social Psychologist Amy Cuddy's work on the effects of body language on our psyche introduces us to the concept of "faking it." Although it might sound like pretending or masking our true selves, it's much more than that. Research in body language has shown that successful people often exhibit specific patterns, such as sitting with open arms or taking up more space, reflecting their desire to be more dominant. Similarly, victory poses often involve spreading the arms wide, embodying the idea of occupying more space. On the contrary, those who feel unsuccessful or have low self-confidence might cross their arms, attempting to take up less space.
Given these examples, when considering the interconnectedness of emotions, thoughts, and actions, the "Fake it till you make it" approach suggests that acting like a confident and successful person can eventually make you become one. Actors are a prime example; even on their worst days, they can transform into someone entirely different on stage. This implies that by "faking it" in life's many challenging situations, we can eventually make those scenarios a reality.
Another example is placing a pencil in your mouth during sad times to improve your mood. The pencil forces a smile-like expression, tricking the brain into releasing serotonin, the happiness hormone.
By controlling our body language to convey the message we desire, we initiate a change in our behaviors, which in turn affects our thoughts. As Amy Cuddy suggests, feeling strong and successful increases our willingness to try new things. We don't give up easily and, through persistence, achieve success.
Yes, by playing a small trick with our body, we can change our psyche. Even in moments of doubt, change is possible.
Even if you don't feel it yet, act as if you do, and enjoy the fruits of success. Remember, no one else is with you in this journey, including yourself, until you decide to make that change.