"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
18 Sep 2023
Body language is a vital part of communication and can sometimes convey more information than words. The majority of our body language, as well as that of others, are subconscious reflections of how we are feeling. Sometimes we simply have negative or good body language patterns that we have formed through time. A comfortable facial expression that breaks out into a genuine smile - with mouth upturned and eyes wrinkled - is a basic illustration of body language. It can also be a head tilt to show you're thinking, an upright stance to show curiosity, or hand and arm movements to demonstrate directions. It can also mean avoiding a defensive, arms-crossed posture or tapping your foot restlessly.
Decoding is the ability to read people's body language. It is the interpretation of hidden emotions, information, and personality from nonverbal communication. Encoding refers to your ability to communicate signals to other people. This is how you control your personal branding, the initial impression you make, and how others feel when they interact with you.
Understanding some positive body language:
Positive body language can help to develop relationships with others, make them more willing to believe what you say, and make them feel appreciated and heard by you. Here are some instances of positive body language and their implications.
1. Placing your hands together, palms facing up.
When someone performs an open-hand gesture, it can signify that they are open and honest as a person. This gesture can be used to underline the significance of what is being said or simply to demonstrate that the person performing the motion is approachable and welcomes others to speak with them. Turning the palms upwards and holding the hands wide in this manner can also show acquiescence. Historically, an open hand with palms showing was used to signal that no weapons were carried or concealed. As a result, opening your hands can demonstrate that you are not a threat and are willing to engage in discussion.
2. Smiling
Smiling at someone demonstrates that you are personable, kind, and likable. It also demonstrates that you appreciate and respect the person to whom you are smiling, which will help to develop both personal and professional connections.When you smile at someone, you are indicating that you are intently listening, which might inspire friends or coworkers to be more confident in sharing their thoughts or comments with you. Of course, the smile should be genuine and not appear frightened or forced. People who smile sincerely and come off as friendly are more likely to succeed in teamwork because they are perceived as nice and respectful.
3.Make eye contact
Eye contact can be used to demonstrate confidence, trust, and to encourage open communication. When you look someone in the eyes throughout a conversation, it shows that you mean what you say. It can also be used as a cue to take your turn, indicating that you are ready to hear what the other person has to say. Breaking eye contact at regular times during a conversation shows that you are respectful and do not pose a threat.To demonstrate that you are paying attention to the other person's thoughts, it is customary to glance away more when speaking and to create more frequent direct eye contact when listening.
4.Straightening up
Standing tall demonstrates self-assurance and confidence. People will feel you are capable in your role and know what you're doing if you stand up straight. They will feel more at ease approaching you for assistance and may perceive you as friendly in general.When a straight stance is relaxed and combined with openly facing the people with whom you are conversing, it shows that you are confident and that you are listening to them with respect.
Summing up all- Understanding others' body language cues can help you comprehend and work with them more successfully, since you'll be able to tell when they're feeling uncomfortable, or when they're confident in their environment or relationships.