The Power of Body Language: Lessons from My Dog Champ
Happy Day 1, everybody! Today, let’s talk about something that’s often overlooked but incredibly important: body language. To kick things off, let me introduce you to my 3-year-old pit bull, Champ, and the role he’s played in helping me understand the impact of body language.
The BIG MAN Game: What Champ Taught Me About Body Language
If you’ve spent time around dogs, you know they’re masters at reading body language. They don’t need words—they sense your energy, posture, and tone. My dog Champ is no exception. Every day, we play a game I call the “BIG MAN” game. It’s simple: I assume the biggest, most confident posture possible—chest up, chin down, shoulders back—and walk slowly toward him. Without a single word, Champ immediately senses the shift. His expression changes, and he knows it’s time to play. Even inside the house, if I adopt this posture, Champ reacts instantly, recognizing the energy I’m projecting.
This got me thinking: If dogs can sense such a powerful shift in energy from body language, imagine how much our body language communicates on the field, court, or in life.
How Body Language Impacts Your Mindset and Performance
Your body language sends powerful signals—not just to others, but to yourself. How you carry yourself influences how opponents perceive you, how teammates react to you, and most importantly, how you feel about yourself.
Here’s the science: your brain and body are deeply connected. When you adopt confident body language—standing tall, keeping your head up, and moving with purpose—it triggers positive effects in your brain. Stress hormones decrease, confidence hormones increase, and your mindset shifts to one of empowerment. Conversely, negative body language—slumped shoulders, a bowed head, hesitant movements—sends the opposite message. It tells your brain, “I’m unsure,” or “I’m defeated,” even if you don’t intend to feel that way.
Body Language: A Skill You Can Control
The beauty of body language is that it’s 100% within your control. No matter the circumstances—whether you’re having a tough game or a challenging day—you can choose how you show up. Practice it like any other skill. Walk onto the field, into a meeting, or through life with the body language of a winner.
Next time you’re in a high-pressure situation, think about Champ and the BIG MAN game. Reset your posture: chest up, chin down, shoulders back. Stand tall and send the signal that you’re ready to take on anything.
Confidence Is What You Project
Confidence isn’t just about how you feel; it’s about what you project. When you own your body language, you’re not just sending the right signals to others—you’re shaping your mindset. Over time, this practice builds the mental toughness and composure of a champion.
So, the next time you step onto the field or into a tough situation, remember: your body language is a tool. Use it to project strength, focus, and resilience. Stand tall, stay strong, and keep building that Major League Mindset.
