In this installment, we'll continue with the second half of our "sixth sense"; i.e. subconscious perceptions. Specifically, let's discuss body language.
There is way more to body language than I can fit into LinkedIn posts, so I'll try to keep it to the basics.
1. Body language is not as mystical as many portray it. There are many factors that affect the development of specific behaviors, which is why it is so important to understand the human environment around you.
2. More people "speak" and understand body language than most realize. There is a reason that parents can often tell when their children are lying. It is the same reason that good poker players can pick up on opponents' "tells". Most of those individuals have no formal training in nonverbal communication, but they can pick it up, nevertheless.
3. There are some universal, essentially instinctual body language cues that transcend age, gender, ethnicity, et al. Some automatic physical responses [to danger, stress, etc] also elicit emotional responses. These emotional responses present in the form of body language cues.
4. Coming full circle, the important thing to remember is that you mustn't ignore all the actions and feelings that make you perceive danger. If you don't believe an immediate response is warranted, those perceptions should at least move you to further investigate them for accuracy.
To learn more about body language and other forms of kinesics, contact us at pete.w@defensiveapplicationstraininggroup.com.
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