Friends, whenever we meet someone, our body language comes first. This is the language that shows our thoughts, our mood and our personality without speaking. Many times, our gestures, our facial expressions and our body movements have more impact than what we say.
It is also said that 60-70% of a person’s conversation is through non-verbal communication i.e. body language. That is, our way of sitting, waving hands, eye contact, smile on the face, all these say a lot.
Why is body language important?
Making a first impression – When we meet a new person, the person in front first notices our body language. If we look confident, then the person in front also takes us seriously.
Effect of communication – How we are saying matters more than what we are saying. If a person is very enthusiastic but his body language looks tired, then the effect will be reduced.
Trust in relationships – We can win the trust of others with the right body language. Like talking while looking into the eyes, keeping a light smile.
Career and interview – In a job interview, your way of sitting, handshake and expressions matter more than your words.
Types of body language
1. Facial Expressions
The face is our biggest identity. Anger, happiness, sadness, fear – all are clearly visible on our face. Like if you look nervous in an interview, then the person in front immediately knows.
2. Eye contact
Eyes speak a lot. If you talk while looking into the eyes, then the person in front feels that you are truthful and confident. But if you repeatedly steal glances, then doubt arises.
3. Hand Gestures
The right use of hands while talking makes your words more powerful. But shaking them too much or biting nails repeatedly, all these show nervousness.
4. Body Posture
Standing or sitting straight, keeping the shoulders back – all these show confidence. If someone is sitting bent, then the other person feels that he is weak or uninterested.
5. Space and distance (Proxemics)
How much distance you keep while talking to someone also matters. Standing too close can make the other person uncomfortable, while standing too far away gives a feeling of distance.
How to keep a positive body language?
Always keep a smile – a slight smile makes you look friendly and positive.
Talk by looking into the eyes – this reflects both trust and confidence.
Sit or stand in the right way – stop sitting bent, learn to stay straight.
Use your hands correctly – Use your hands to explain things but not excessively.
Nodding while listening – This tells the other person that you are listening to him carefully.
Avoid negative body language
Blinking your eyes frequently or avoiding eye contact.
Continuously checking your mobile.
Sitting with your arms crossed makes you look defensive.
Keeping your face sad or irritated.
Moving your legs restlessly or tapping your fingers on the table.
Body language in everyday life
Among friends: Laughing openly and sitting comfortably shows a friendly atmosphere.
In the office: It is important to sit straight in front of your boss and listen carefully.
In the classroom: Looking into the teacher’s eyes and making notes gives a positive signal.
In the family: Relaxed body language strengthens relationships while talking to family members.
Tips to improve body language
Stand in front of a mirror and practice your smile and pose.
Ask a friend to make a video of you and then watch yourself how you sit or talk.
Practice public speaking, gradually the nervousness will reduce.
Read books and articles to understand the kind of body language professionals use.
Body language and confidence
Confidence is something that is not only seen in our voice or words, but is also clearly reflected in our behavior. If you go to a meeting and enter standing straight, keep a light smile and walk slowly but steadily, then without saying anything people understand that you are confident. On the other hand, if you walk bent or keep your face down, then the other person assumes that you are feeling insecure.
Body language and relationships
Body language also plays a big role in maintaining love and trust in relationships.
If you are staring at the mobile while talking to your partner, then the other person will feel that you are not interested.
On the other hand, if you listen carefully, look into the eyes and nod slightly, then the other person feels that you are giving importance to him.
The same applies to children. If parents keep an angry face while talking to them, then the child gets nervous, but if they keep a smile and soft tone, then the child talks openly.
Body language and culture
The meaning of body language is different in different countries of the world.
For example, in India, sitting with legs spread or with feet facing someone is considered wrong.
On the other hand, in Europe, making long eye contact shows interest, but in some Asian countries it is considered disrespectful.
Handshake, hug or saying namaste with folded hands – it all depends on the culture.
That is why it becomes very important to understand the local body language when going on an international level.
Body language and career growth
In professional life, body language also affects your promotion and growth.
If you are always alert in meetings, keep the right posture and nod your head from time to time, then the boss feels that you are a responsible employee.
If you are running here and there on the stage while giving a presentation and are not making eye contact, then the effect of your hard work will be reduced.
On the other hand, if you are standing steady, using your hands correctly and looking into the eyes of the audience, then people will take your words seriously.
Body language and catching lies
Many times people are saying something else but their body language tells something else.
A person who lies often avoids eye contact.
Pretty much pressing the lips, clearing the throat or sweating are also signals of nervousness.
Police and investigation agencies also guess the truth or lie by reading body language.
Easy way to learn body language
Notice the body language of your friends or colleagues daily.
Understand which gesture shows confidence and which shows nervousness.
Pay attention to yourself too – are you also making the same mistakes often?
Gradually correct them and adopt positive habits.
Result
Body language is a language that everyone understands, even if the other person does not know your spoken language. It is a mirror of our personality. If used correctly, it is beneficial in everything – relationships, career and life.
So the next time you meet someone, keep in mind that your body language is creating your true identity.
