Researchers in psychology are uncovering amazing facts about how our brains are wired. The results benefit more than just the research scientists and psychologists. Even us engineers can benefit from this information and put it to good use in our daily lives. The brain is so impressive that it can help you improve your power poses.
Have you ever felt anxiety before a presentation you were to deliver? How about before a job interview? If you’re like most people, me included, you have. The mind sends threat signals to the brain resulting in the body creating hormones to help us deal with the situation. The two primary hormones involved cortisol (the stress hormone) and testosterone (the dominance hormone).
The event our mind perceives as a threat increases cortisol levels and lowers testosterone levels. This leaves us with an elevated heart rate, cold palms, sweaty armpits and a feeling of vulnerability and powerlessness. Definitely not what we need heading into a presentation, job interview, or any high-stress social situation. [Read more…] about The Power Poses: Blowing Through Anxiety in Your Next Stressful Engagement