Without realizing it, our bodies often tell a story. Body language is like a secret language that conveys a lot, sometimes even more than words.

It’s not just about what we say; it’s also about how we move and act. Tiny gestures can make us look super confident or reveal that we’re feeling a bit shaky and unsure.

And let me tell you, being confident is great! It helps you try new things, trust yourself, and stay strong during tough times. But did you ever think about how confident your body language is?

Let’s examine 7 common body language mistakes confidence people never make and learn how to boost your nonverbal skills. 

Maybe this will help you show the world your inner confidence. 

1) They avoid putting hands in their pockets

Putting your hands in your pockets might feel comforting, especially when you’re nervous. However, it can give off vibes of insecurity or uncertainty to others. 

Confident people simply avoid this habit because it signals discomfort.

I used to do this a lot, especially when I was out with my buddies and a friend pointed it out. He asked if I was nervous or wanted to leave, even though I was actually enjoying myself. 

It made me realize how others perceived me. Now, I try to stay calm, avoid fidgeting, and keep my hands out of my pockets. When I need something to do with my hands, I grab a snack or drink instead. 

That’s the confidence move!

2) They avoid bad posture 

Confident people stand tall and straight like they have an invisible string pulling them up. This makes them look strong and sure of themselves.

When you see someone slouching with their face to the floor, you might think they’re insecure and don’t want to be noticed. Maybe that’s exactly how they feel. 

However, everyone should try to have good posture, not just for health reasons but also to appear confident. 

A slouchy posture makes you look less confident than those who stand tall. People see you as timid and afraid, which can be a problem in a more professional situation, like a job interview or when giving a presentation. 

So, straighten your back and lift your chin up. You deserve to assert yourself and claim your space in the world!

3) They don’t shy away from making eye contact

Confident people look you in the eyes when they talk, showing they’re focused and attentive. They don’t look away or stare too much, both of which, as you might agree, can be pretty uncomfortable.

I was at my friend’s wedding recently and met an interesting couple. They were complete opposites: 

The wife was very confident, talking to everyone, and she would look directly into your eyes. Her husband, on the other hand, was glancing around, looking at the floor, and checking his phone all the time.

At some point, I even thought, “Geez, that man doesn’t want to be here. I can’t catch his look.” But he was just less confident and insecure. 

Some people feel that way around people they don’t know. After talking with him for a while, he felt more at ease, and you could tell he was enjoying himself. 

Insecure people look away, stare at the floor, or check their phones during conversations because eye contact feels intimidating. Instead, you should try to look people more directly in the eyes. 

4) They don’t avoid smiling

Confident folks smile genuinely; they show real smiles instead of avoiding them. Imagine you’re having a good time at a party – that’s the kind of smile I’m talking about. 

A true smile is like a secret confidence weapon. It spreads positive vibes, making you seem friendly and confident. That’s why confident people smile often. They don’t avoid it. 

Your happy smile can also make you feel better about yourself. 

I have a trick that I use, and I’m not embarrassed to share it. I smile at myself in the mirror, especially when I’m nervous before an important meeting. It helps me boost my confidence, and it makes me feel more successful. 

Studies confirm that smiling boosts confidence. It’s like a reminder that you’re accepted by others, which improves how you see yourself overall. 

Plus, when you smile, people tend to see you in a more positive light, liking and respecting you more!

Want to boost your confidence? Smiling more is a simple way to do it!

5) They don’t cross their arms

Many people cross their arms because it’s comfortable. I’m one of those people. I do it because it feels cozy sometimes, especially when I’m just chillin’. 

But timing is important here because crossed arms can give people the wrong message. 

Confident folks often keep their arms open. They know that crossing their arms can make them seem closed off or uncomfortable. 

Honestly, it really depends on the situation. Still, if you are aware you’re crossing your arms during conversation and with that, you also forget to break a smile, people will think you’re uncomfortable, defensive, or disappointed.

Something like a famous Cillian Murphy meme. I love the guy, but man, he can make you feel uncomfortable and question your existence. 

Instead of crossing your arms, try holding a pen or a book. It will probably give you a more forgiving look.

6) They don’t make weak handshakes

A strong and friendly handshake is a little power move every confident person is aware of. 

It leaves a good impression and makes you appear more professional, especially if you’re applying for a new job or meeting a new client. 

Nobody wants to feel like they’ve just met a freshly caught fish, right? So make sure your handshake game is on point. 

Aiming for the perfect balance between firmness and gentleness will make your first encounter with other people much more pleasant. 

Practice if you need to. I’m sure your family and friends will give you the feedback you need. 

7) They don’t invade your personal space

Confident people also understand the idea of personal space. They imagine a bubble around them, and they understand that others have their own bubbles, too.

They’re considerate about how close they get to others, and they know it helps them be more likable. They avoid getting too close and respect other people’s personal space. 

Picture yourself waiting in line for your favorite coffee. You’re just standing there, doing your own thing. 

Now, imagine someone behind you standing super close, almost breathing down your neck. 

They obviously don’t get the idea of personal space, making the whole waiting thing feel weird. I shiver even thinking about it, as I’m very defensive about my personal space. 

Now imagine having your colleagues do the same to you while you’re sitting at your desk. Not cool.

On the flip side, think about what a confident person would do in the same situation. Yes, they’d keep a comfortable distance, understanding that personal space matters, even when the coffee shop is bustling, or you’re just trying to do some work at your desk. 

Try to be the second guy.

Final thoughts

Being confident isn’t easy, and it takes some practice. Some people are naturally confident, and some need a bit of a push. This is when checking your body language mistakes can go a long way.

But the truth is, becoming more confident really begins with you realizing your potential and valuing yourself. 

We all know that our actions and thoughts can hold us back. By identifying and letting go of these things, we release ourselves from things that weigh us down.

You have the power to change and grow.