10 Ways To Appear Naturally Confident

Confidence is something that both men and women often find incredibly attractive in a partner, yet it’s a trait many people feel they lack. Confidence plays a pivotal role in securing your dream job, impressing on a first date, talking to your crush, or speaking in front of an audience.

While not everyone naturally possesses confidence, it can be surprisingly easy to project it. Even if you’re not entirely self-assured, you can still exude confidence through your posture, speech, and overall presentation.

# Don’t Cross Your Arms

You've likely heard it before: crossing your arms signals to others that you’re unapproachable. This gesture pulls your body inward, making you appear defensive. According to Harvard Business School researcher Amy Cuddy, it also reduces testosterone levels and increases stress. While it might feel like a comfortable stance at parties, it’s better in the long run to...

# Take Up Space

Did you know that taking up more space can make you seem more confident? Cuddy notes that while crossing your arms is a social faux pas, using gestures and "talking with your hands" displays power and helps you establish presence. This “power move” is often practiced by successful business leaders, so give it a try!

# Keep Your Head Up – Literally

Walking with your head held high signals that you’re engaged, open to new experiences, and not shy about being noticed. It’s a major indicator of confidence and promotes good posture, maximizing oxygen flow and muscle alignment.

# Make Eye Contact

Eye contact is crucial for positive social interactions. It shows you’re willing to engage, creates a friendly demeanor, and conveys confidence. Those with low self-confidence might find it uncomfortable or worry about staring too long. But don’t fret—people are usually just glad you’re paying attention and seem interested in their story.

# Put Your Phone Away

For those struggling with social anxiety, parties and social gatherings can be challenging. Many people resort to using their phones to avoid interaction. Resist the urge to check your phone. Not only is it impolite on a date, but it also makes you appear disengaged and unapproachable.

# S-M-I-L-E!

Smiling is a simple yet powerful gesture. Whether it’s a passing hello or during a deep conversation, a smile can ease tension and make you seem friendly, approachable, and confident. Plus, studies show that smiling can boost your mood, even when you’re feeling down, so don’t hesitate to show those pearly whites!

# Use the Triple Nod

Body language research indicates that nodding your head three times when someone pauses in their story encourages them to talk three to four times longer than if you hadn’t nodded at all. It’s a great way to keep the conversation flowing without much effort and shows you’re interested—even if you’re not!

# Avoid Speed Talking

Nervous people often rush through their stories because they’re anxious about holding the room’s attention. If you’re working on becoming more socially confident, practice telling your stories slowly and avoid rushing. Take a deep breath and articulate your words clearly. Confident individuals don’t mind commanding attention, so you should aim to appear at ease while speaking.

# Stand by Your Opinions

While you don’t want to end up in a heated argument on a first date, it’s important to stay true to your opinions. Don’t change your stance just to match your date’s views. Differing opinions can lead to interesting conversations, so embrace them.

# The Importance of Touch

While it’s not advisable to go around touching everyone inappropriately, confident people are comfortable offering a firm handshake, a friendly pat on the shoulder, or even helping to remove a bit of lint from someone’s clothes. Physical touch can convey warmth and assurance, and who doesn’t appreciate a friend who ensures you’re spinach-free?