Confidence: the Link Between Your Body and Your Mind
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It goes without saying, and I've said it many times, that confidence is key in the pursuit of Ultimate Masculinity. In this article we'll use some science and some good, old gut-based intuition to come to a strong conclusion that confident men feel, behave, and are perceived as more masculine. [1]
First off, there is a collective understanding that you should walk tall, with good posture: chin up, shoulders back, etc. Nobody needs a book to tell them that "if you slump around, people will assign you a lower status" and that with poor posture "your brain will not produce as much serotonin" - serotonin being important in mood and confidence. [2] On the other hand, if you "walk tall and gaze forthrightly ahead ... people will start to assume you are competent and able" and confident. [2]
Good posture can also have a positive effect on your internal mood and emotions. A study found that "upright (vs. stooped) posture led to more positive interpretations of ambiguous information and increased positive emotions related to depression (happiness, optimism and vigor); time in an upright position was associated with change in interpretation bias and vividness of positive mental imagery". [3] In other words, when people stand up straight, they have a more positive outlook on life, reducing depressive symptoms, implicitly increasing confidence.
However, I believe we can take the connection between confidence and posture a step further. Among other symptoms, we can characterize depression as a supreme lack of confidence, among other symptoms. One of the risks of depression is a "deficit in one's sense of self" [4]
I propose that flexing and posing your body like a bodybuilder or Greek statue is a more active analog to the passive act of standing and existing with good posture. Flexing your body in a mirror will gain the benefits of good posture while also reinforcing one's sense of self. Posing muscularly in front of a mirror forces you to acknowledge and accept your body while also appreciating the art of your corporeal form. Even if you're not happy with your body in its current state, the first step of change is acceptance. If you want to accelerate your confidence, take time to pose in front of the mirror and reinforce your connection to your body and sense of self.