by Susan Liddy

• Did you ever notice the way that some women naturally light up a room the minute they enter?

• Have you ever been wowed by another person's ability to command attention and respect?

• Do you ever wonder how some women are instant head turners, even though they may not exactly be outwardly "beautiful" by ordinary standards?

What's that special something that only some people seem to have? I call it "presence" -- and it has LESS to do with surface appearance than it does with a certain glow of confidence, and a peaceful self assurance that radiates from within.

Presence begins as peace of mind, a tranquil nature and connection to our spirit. It's about feeling comfortable in our own skin, certain of who we are on the inside, calm and receptive to the approaches, opinions and assertions of others.

To me, presence is a feeling... an energy. Presence can be like a magnet, attracting people and opportunities to you. When we have presence, we are noticed and people take interest.

What is your presence? When you walk into the room, what "energy" do the occupants feel? Believe it or not, you don't need to say a word to put across a certain vibe that others will be either attracted to, neutral toward, or even wary of.

Surely you're no stranger to the occasional bad day... when you hurry out to the bank, rush off to that meeting, or run to your hairdresser feeling stressed, overwhelmed, and just tight and tense all over. Do you think this negative state of being might come across in your actions, words and gestures? You bet it will... and sometimes, that unnerving presence leaks out even when we try to hide it!

Then there are the days when we're feeling great... relaxed, free of worry, mindful of the present, and responsive to the sights and sounds and the other beings around us. How about when you can feel a smile pulling up the corners of your mouth, and you just want to offer a cheery "hello" and a friendly wave to everyone you meet? Or what about after you've just delivered an important presentation at work... and you know you did a great job, and your confidence is soaring? What happens on these days... how do people react to your presence then?

Presence is a constant awareness. It has a peacefulness to it; it is a rejuvenating consciousness. There is depth within presence and a height to it, too. As if we can go utterly *deep* within ourselves and from this place, launch so *high*... as high as we dare to dream.

Presence starts with being happy and at peace with ourselves. That means taking care of our bodies and nurturing our minds. Getting a good amount of sleep and regular exercise. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables; drinking enough water. Having a challenging and rewarding career. Making time for good friends. Getting out and enjoying nature... the sun's warmth, the cooling breeze. Taking up hobbies that bring us joy and stimulate our minds. Surrounding ourselves with positive people who inspire us to grow into better versions of ourselves.

12 Keys to Cultivate a Powerful "Presence":

Envision yourself ultra confident and be "that".

Hold your chin up, assume a proud body posture.

Notice and release your body tension.

Act purposeful, make conscious choices.

Be who you are and allow yourself to be seen.

Embrace the calm quiet around you.

Connect with your breath.

Check in with yourself often.

Listen to your inner dialogues.

Practice the 12 keys for a day and notice how people respond to you when your "presence" communicates the powerful, calm, and beautiful being who you are on the inside!

Want a more powerful "Presence?"

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