We experience this idyllic feeling when we are around another individual who has charisma; better yet, when we feel undeniably magnetic! Our posture is more erect; we are more confident and attentive; our communication is crystal clear.
The dictionary defines magnetism as 'the strong attractiveness of something; for example, the power of somebody's personality to influence others.' Previously, we talked about how our physical and verbal presentation guides other's perception of us.
What about our attitude, level of confidence and emotional state? Being more transparent than you think, people easily read when you are confident or not.
"Katherine Hepburn once referred to her arrival in Hollywood by saying, "I was bringing myself as though I were a basket of flowers!" How wonderful to feel that way and to be able to say it!
"If Hepburn hadn't had her confident sense of self she could never have swept through Hollywood as triumphantly as she did. In Ms. Hepburn's era, women held the role of cute, snuggly, sexy or gorgeous -not at all like the self-determination, patrician fortitude, self-sufficiency, and sparking beauty she exuded.
"People do walk through the door of your expectations—especially if the expectations are unquestioning and sure. Katherine Hepburn's strong sense of self not only propelled her into being a star; as everybody knows, she stayed one." Doe Lang, Ph.D., in "Charisma, Discover and Unleash Your Hidden Powers".
I often hear people say 'once I lose that extra fifteen pounds my confidence will soar. I'll feel much better about myself and then I'll ask for that promotion.' This is conditional acceptance. Do you want conditional acceptance from others? Then why limit yourself? Your sense of self is more wisely developed through the fascinations that occupy your mind and your heart.
You've experienced being in the presence of someone who is both large and confident as they own the crowd. They accept themselves as who they are here and now. It doesn't matter if you are tall or short, thin, overweight or have a bad hair day, your level of confidence or magnetism determines how people respond to you.
This week, consider what makes a person magnetic. Be specific. Think of celebrities, politicians, individuals whom you respect and those whom you do not as you can still learn from them. What traits do they have? Which of these traits do you have or would you like to develop? Polish up that magnetic personality. You'll get extra credits if you position yourself in a place to be around and learn to influence others from individuals like this, and are feeling magnetic yourself. Enjoy your discoveries and have a great week!
