80 January 2014 www.womanthismonth.com she says The Power of Persuasion by SAMAR SADULLAH When it comes to fulfilling our dreams and being at one with ourselves, there is a key tool we have to be equipped with — the ability to see through our decisions. Whether it has to do with work, health or relationships, this is a skill we need to develop. When I was sixteen, I remember feeling that every decision I made had to be based on what someone else wanted, thought and expected. Little did I know that this journey of life was based so much more on our individual and bespoke script of life. From the subjects I chose at college, to my first job, from my fashion illustrations to my first car — all these decisions I came to realise were based on my preference instead of that of others. Persuasion is such a useful tool to attain. Do you remember the first time you had a difficult project to complete at work or a misconstrued attempt at clear communication with your boss? Persuasion is the cure to everything. Articulate your ideas and believe in what you are doing — even if every individual in the room doesn’t. It is important to believe in the power of actioning your thoughts and feelings. Project that inner strength and belief. Let’s stick to a scenario at work. Your boss feels you have made an incorrect decision about one of your clients. The client has been a benchmark of all your key corporate choices despite their obviously evident flaws. Implement a strategy, an ultimate goal and believe in your ability to state your case. Persuasion isn’t just a tool that can be presented through the words we say, but in your body language. Yes, that means less sighs, combined with fewer tired attempts at incomplete smiling. Replace this with an energetic presence and as clichéd as this may sound — stand tall! When projecting an idea, it always helps to perfect such mannerisms. Avoid looking at the ground and maintain eye contact. You don’t get asked to ‘look at someone straight in the face’ for nothing. Ladies, it’s time to celebrate the power of persuasion. Believe me, your confidence and drive will flourish.
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