My hope for girls (and I am sure this is your hope too) is that they can feel like superheroes! Meaning, they can feel empowered, strong, and on solid ground – secure, confident, and certain in who they are.

In preparing to write my book I came across research on the superhero pose. Curious, I wanted to know more about the science behind this pose and why I should try it too. There is a scientific study that claims that if you stand in superhero pose before a job interview, a presentation, or any difficult task, you are not only more likely to feel confident, but you will perform measurably better as well.

Psychology Today ran an article called, “Why You May Want to Stand Like a Superhero” and here’s what I learned:

Participants in their study experimenting the effects of different poses (high and lower power) resulted in higher levels of testosterone and lowered levels of cortisol (stress hormone)

Participants adopted more risk taking behavioural patterns

I believe that if we can teach girls to stand in superhero pose, tall and legs spread slightly apart, head held high, arms on hips elbows bent, they are more likely to feel and act like a superhero. The open stance projects power and confidence and takes up space. This may not mean they will suddenly be able to fly over tall buildings or have extendable arms! But, it may just mean that girls will begin to own their space, believe in themselves enough to do what most frightens them, that they will be able to build up their confidence to step out of their comfort zone. Girls may just feel strong enough to act boldly and courageously. If we can guide girls to stand strong in who they are, grounded in goodness and authenticity, they can stand up for themselves and stand up for justice, and be strong in knowing exactly who they are.

“Stand like a superhero, act like a superhero.”