Fake It Till You Become It: The Power of Presence and Confidence
Have you ever felt like you don’t belong? Like you’re an imposter in a room full of people who seem more competent, more qualified, and more deserving? You’re not alone. Many of us battle with self-doubt, but what if a small tweak in your body language could transform your confidence, presence, and ultimately, your success?
The Experiment: Power Posing and Confidence
A study explored how body language affects confidence by placing participants in high- and low-power poses before a stressful job interview. The participants were evaluated by judges who gave no verbal or non-verbal feedback—an unnerving experience that spikes cortisol (the stress hormone). The results? Those who adopted high-power poses were consistently rated more positively and were more likely to be hired.
But what’s fascinating is that this wasn’t about what they said. Their qualifications and speech content were not the deciding factors. Instead, it was their presence—their ability to bring their full, unfiltered selves into the room—that made the difference.
A Personal Journey: From Imposter to Believer
The speaker shared a deeply personal story of overcoming imposter syndrome. After a traumatic car accident left her with a significantly lower IQ, she was told she would never complete college. She struggled but persevered, eventually making it to Princeton. Yet, even there, she felt like she didn’t belong. The night before a crucial presentation, she was ready to quit. But her advisor told her: “Fake it. Keep doing it, even if you don’t believe it, until you do.”
She followed that advice, giving every talk, taking every opportunity, until one day she realized—she wasn’t faking anymore. She had become the confident person she once only pretended to be.
The Moment of Realization
Years later, as a Harvard professor, she encountered a student who confessed, “I’m not supposed to be here.” In that moment, she saw her former self. But instead of letting the student spiral into self-doubt, she empowered her: “You are supposed to be here. Fake it till you become it.”
The student took the advice and excelled. Months later, she returned, transformed—not just pretending to be confident, but truly embodying it.
The Science Behind It: Tiny Tweaks, Big Changes
This entire concept is built on the idea that small physical changes can lead to significant mental shifts. Power posing for just two minutes before an important event can:
- Increase testosterone (the dominance hormone)
- Decrease cortisol (the stress hormone)
- Boost confidence and presence
Before your next big challenge—an interview, a speech, an important meeting—try it. Stand tall. Expand your posture. Take up space. Give yourself permission to feel powerful.
Share the Power
This isn’t just for those with status or resources. Anyone can do it. No technology, no money, no special skills—just your body and two minutes of privacy. Share this knowledge with those who need it most. It could change lives.
So next time you feel like an imposter, remember: Don’t fake it till you make it. Fake it till you become it.
Now go, stand tall, and own your presence.
Thank you, Keep supporting ☺