Read to Thrive: ‘Presence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges’

This is part of a series offering top insights from interesting reads to help you up-level in work and life.

Asserting ourselves is a hot topic in the work I do with clients, and even though Amy Cuddy’s 2012 TedX talk has more than 70 million views and her research is readily available in her national bestseller, we still struggle.

I’ve been wanting to feature Cuddy’s book, “Presence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges,” for the start of 2024, because I want it to be top of mind as we launch into an empowered 2024.

The book is overflowing with research evidence and case studies that “our body language governs the way other people perceive us, more importantly, our body language governs the way we perceive ourselves.” In fact, it plays a pivotal role in how successful we are.  Finding and asserting your authentic leadership style is key to success, and this book is a crucial tool for overcoming some of the barriers that we face as women in male-dominated fields. 

KEY THEMES

• Embrace Your Power Poses: Boost your confidence with “power poses.” This simple technique can profoundly impact your presence and confidence. (Photo examples below)

• Authenticity is Your Superpower: Be true to your unique self. Your distinct perspective is invaluable.

• Overcome Self-doubt: Tackle self-doubt head on. Routinely track your achievements; don’t wait for others to do it. The more your achievements become apparent to you, the easier it is for you to speak about them and feel affirmed that you are making an impact.

QUOTES THAT INSPIRED

• "Presence is the state in which we stop worrying about the impression we’re making on others and instead adjust the impression we’ve been making on ourselves."

• "Tiny tweaks can lead to big changes."

• "Power makes us approach. Powerlessness makes us avoid.”

APPLYING ‘PRESENCE’ AS A LEADER IN TECH

As women and people of color in tech, we often face unique challenges. Amy Cuddy’s “Presence” is more than just a book; it’s an essential resource with insights that help us redefine leadership in the places where we have and/or crave influence. As you consider your work and behaviors, also consider these actions:

• Practice power poses before stepping into high-stakes meetings or presentations. Your confidence will improve.

• Embrace your uniqueness. Authenticity in leadership sets you apart and inspires those around you who also need to see the power of their uniqueness. 

• Create connections that matter. Seek mentors and allies who support and believe in your journey. 

For more from Cuddy, check out the below resource—and continue on your journey of empowerment:

Fake it ’til you become it: Amy Cuddy’s power poses… visualized | TED Blog