In 2015 I discovered Carol Dwerks’ Growth mindset. I dont remember where or how, but this dyslexics brain loved it. I had grown up thinking that I was not able to do many things and having had a few years out of work after my second child, my confidence was low. Growth mindset excited me and the power of yet became part of my vocabulary.
This got me going as I started researching LAMDA and qualifications that would mean I could become a speech and drama teacher. I kept this in my head as I approached speech and drama teachers to see if I could shadow them and as I apprached a franchised drama academy to see if they would assess me as part of getting my speech and drama teaching qualification. The more action I took the more confident I became.
It was after I gained my first position as a speech and drama teacher that I saw the power that not only public speaking tution but acting tution had on confidence levels. It became apparent that the way we hold our bodies directly links to how we feel and vice versa. After 7 years there is no doubt in my mind that if you have ever felt nervous, insecure or felt self doubt in a situation where you had to speak or perform, you can act confidently, and through this action you will actually become more confident.
To to act confidently you can
- Stand tall and straight, with your shoulders back and your chest open. This posture signals confidence and authority, and also helps you breathe better and relax your muscles.
- Smile and make eye contact with your audience. This shows that you are friendly, appraochable and interested.
- Speak clearly with a moderate pace and volume. Try to avoid filler words such as “um”, “like” or “you know.”
- Use gestures that match your words and tone. Avoid crossing your arms, fidgeting, or touching your face. Instead use open and expressive gestures.
- Tell yourself “I’m excited to share what I have to say with my audience”.
Acting confidently is not only a skill, but a mindset. By acting confidently, you can improve your communication, performance and self esteem. Its not about being fake. Its about being yourself, but with more confidence.
Next time you are in a challenging situation, try acting confidently for a minimum of 2 minutes and see the difference it makes.
If you made it this far, I thank you.
Sign up to my newsletter at www.actconfident.co.uk for more tips on acting confidently or message me at enquiries@actconfident.co.uk for public speaking, acting or devised acting lessons.
I look forward to hearing form you
Helen
