Your Personal Power Pose: How to Stand Up for Yourself—Literally
What do superheroes, dancers, and speakers have in common? They all know how to use their body to project confidence and strength. The way you stand or hold yourself can make you feel more powerful—even when you’re nervous or unsure.
Power poses are body positions that boost your confidence by sending signals to your brain. They help you feel stronger, more capable, and ready to take on anything. Let’s dive in!
What is a Power Pose?
A power pose is any stance where you take up space and hold yourself tall and steady. It’s about owning your presence and showing the world—and yourself—that you’re strong and in control.
Why do power poses work?
When you stand confidently, your brain releases feel-good chemicals that help reduce stress and boost your mood. It’s like a pep talk but for your body.
3 Power Poses to Try
The Superhero Pose
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.
Place your hands on your hips.
Lift your chin slightly and breathe deeply.
Hold this pose for 2 minutes and notice how much stronger you feel.
The Victory Pose
Stand tall with your arms stretched high above your head, like you’ve just won a race.
Smile and take deep breaths.
This pose is perfect for celebrating small wins and boosting your mood.
The Grounded Pose
Stand with your feet firmly planted on the ground.
Let your arms hang naturally by your sides.
Breathe deeply and focus on feeling steady and grounded.
Use this pose before walking into a stressful situation.
Your Challenge
This week, pick one of these power poses and practice it before a challenging moment—like a test, a presentation, or meeting new people. Write down how it made you feel: Did you notice a shift in your confidence or mood?
Your body is a powerful tool for building confidence. By taking a strong stance, you can show the world—and yourself—that you’re capable, brave, and ready for anything. So go ahead, strike a pose, and own your power!
