There are a few ways you can take up space without being aggressive or confrontational. First, make sure you’re standing up straight with your shoulders back. This will help you appear confident and in control. This can also help with learning how to say no. It can be tough to say no, especially if you’re someone who tends to always say yes. But you can change that by simply saying, “let me get back to you.” Adding a slight delay will help you not give up time unnecessarily, and it will also allow you to come up with a response that lets the person down easily and politely.
Saying no doesn’t have to be a confrontation. You can still be nice and friendly while declining an offer. Just remember to use phrases like, “I’m sorry, but I can’t.” This lets the other person know that you’re not interested without coming across as rude.
When taking up space, because you do belong, try to spread out a bit; don’t stand too close to other people or objects, as this can make you seem cramped and uncomfortable. Your body knows the truth, your body will showcase nervousness or uncomfortability by your posture or facial expressions.
So, one way to gain confidence and take up space is through pole dancing. This type of movement helps you connect with your body, helps build confidence, and helps to short-circuit that negative feedback loop, that insecurity, and the stress from you always saying yes, even though you want to say no.
So the next time someone asks you to do something you don’t want to do, don’t be afraid to say no. You are powerful and worthy of a lot more than they’ve given you thus far. So take up space and don’t be afraid to stand your ground! Taking pole dance classes will really help making strides in this direction, because your body knows the truth. You may surprise yourself, and notice that confidence shift!
So, try that pole dance class with us.. Let’s build confidence together, and learn how to take up space . 🙂
Xoxo,
Tash