I thought it was a funny coincidence that body language came into discussion during one of last weeks classes, as it is something I have been reading up on lately. I have been taking it slow, just visiting body language forums on the internet and reading articles on its importance, as well as articles with tips and hints on what to look for. I guess what I'm really looking into is the art of seduction, but I don't like how that sentence sounds.

People tend to hear the word seduction and automatically think of it in relation to sexuality. While I am all for the benefits I may receive from the opposite sex for being able to read physical and verbal cues of interest, that is not what attracts me to body language reading. The more I think on it, the more I realize that maybe that “93% body, 7% verbal” figure might be a bit exaggerated. Regardless, it is almost a guarantee that a majority of our communication will be entirely physical. Understanding body language is not a hard concept to grasp, but I find it strange that such a huge portion of our interaction goes almost entirely overlooked by most of the population. Even if we don't specifically try to take note and respond to body language, it is an unconscious driving force in every face to face interaction. Recognizing and properly responding to physical implications can help you drive any conversation towards any specific desired outcome. It's not a guarantee, but it's at the very least an edge.

I have not only been involved in reading body language, but also taking closer watch over my own and what messages it might give off. Even if I am slightly uncomfortable, do I want to relay that message to everyone around me? Do I want my speech patterns and tone to dictate the response I receive? How about self-touch gestures or hands in my pockets? Biting my nails? Playing with the buttons on my jacket? For the most part, there is a reason for all these gestures, depending on the person of course. The main point is, I am after the ability use more than 10% or so of my total communicative tools, and not just passively. I want to actively be aware of how to relay my messages, how I come off based on my posture or gestures, and how to read the reactions I get from those I am communicating with. It just makes good sense to use all the tools at your disposal to facilitate the completion of a goal. By giving off the right body language, I can create a more comforting environment for my conversational partners to engage in. I can indicate when my interest is strong and when there is still something to be desired; and yes, I suppose I can also make myself appear more approachable or desirable, should I feel the need to introduce myself to someone I take a particular interest in, whatever that may imply.

A huge part of why I read, aside from my intrinsic interest in the stories told or the ideas laid out, is to increase my vocabulary. I want to better my ability to speak. If I feel a certain way, I want the ability to describe every last detail on the way I feel and why. Understanding and getting to know myself is very important to me, and that is why I have expanded this attempt at bettering myself to the realm of body language. I can't control damn near anything in life, but one thing I have complete control over is myself, and if I can do anything to improve my own self-expression, I will do it. I live to better myself and hope it can inspire or help someone else in the process. Only through self-improvement can we begin to improve anything else in the world.

Or, you know, get that cute girls number at the bar. Whatever!

TL;DR? Body language is important. That is all (˘‿˘ʃƪ)

thanks for reading!