Let’s talk about Poise!

 ‘Poise is the art of raising the eyebrows rather than the roof’

This quote was sent to me a few days ago as a ‘thought for the day’ and I wanted to share it with you. Do you agree with this quote? Do you disagree?

Poise is defined as a dignified, self-confident manner or bearing; composure; self-possession.

Guess what? Having poise, good manners and good etiquette will never go out of style. You can spot a person with poise or good etiquette from a mile away just as you can quickly spot a person who does not possess these characteristics. Similarly, it is easier and more pleasurable to deal with someone who possesses these characteristics than with persons who have poor manners and are loud and temperamental. 

Here are some simple tips which you can use daily to enhance your poise. These tips will win you points with your friends, family, boss, co-workers and customers.

1)   Seriously, think before you speak, text, blog, BB, tweet etc. Once you put your thoughts out there, you can’t take them back. Have you ever been in a meeting or at an event and just cringed at something a speaker said? Similarly, how do you feel about some of the things people choose to post on Facebook?

Ensure your message is clear and simple. Remember, regardless of the situation, curse words, negativity and bringing others down are unnecessary in order to get your point across. You don’t have to sacrifice dignity and composure to make a point.

2)      Sit properly and stand up straight. It’s amazing how much we slouch and bend these days. Good posture speaks volumes to employers, for example, so develop this habit early. In addition, good posture is simply just good for your health.

3)       Smile...ok smile at least a few times a day. You have plenty of reasons to smile and sharing a smile and a warm greeting shows good manners and will earn you tonnes of admiration. In addition, being able to smile in the face of insults or embarrassment shows amazing strength of character and will result in you also earning respect. That’s Poise!

As a youth ambassador, I have been fortunate to interact with dynamic and successful young persons and dignitaries from around the world. Many of these display poise and dignity in their speech and actions.

In order to grow personally and professionally, you must strive to develop a habit of poise and simply 'raise your eyebrows' at negative comments and insults. Focus on your positive development today.