YOUR POKER FACE DOES NOT LAST

“Wow, your work sounds awesome. I can see that you are really passionate about it. I can see it on your face!”

“I can tell that you love what you do! Your positivity is so contagious.”

I have been hearing messages like these more and more lately from people that I meet. Initially, I used to be taken aback when someone said it. There were other good speakers too who had just spoken before me, and everyone else also introduced themselves and shared their work. So, how in the world can they say that about me in just one meeting? What are they hearing or seeing that made them feel that way? Because I did not necessarily think that I was introducing myself differently.

It was the energy, the nonverbal communication.

The truth is that many of us are not very excited about what we do or as passionate about what we speak about. Public speaking of any form, prior to InnovatorsBox, was terrifying even for me because I was a mere presenter dictating, not speaking from my heart. Introductions prior to InnovatorsBox was focused on making sure I present myself in the best light with my job title and affiliations. No matter how comfortable I let myself feel, I now see that how I carry myself unconsciously is completely different from how happy, excited and limitless I genuinely feel.

This is why, when we meet certain people, we either feel immediately welcomed and supported or threatened and uncomfortable. And this is why we should be more intentional about how we care ourselves to work, at home and outside. You may think that you are doing a good job hiding your concerns or stress, but they would be flooding over through your nonverbal cues.

At times, you may not feel very comfortable to show your true selves because of the fear of being judged. However, this is the very reason why bringing our true version is so crucial. The courage you take to show up with all your joy, curiosity, and questions will create a very powerful ripple effect.