Wake Up to Your Charisma
What is it that draws people to you? How is it that some people seem to have a natural ability to be “interesting” to others? Why do some people seem so confident meeting new people when others feel afraid?
I was speaking at a CIPFA event earlier this month in which I was invited to discuss: “How to be a great PA – The Art (& Science) of Charisma” and it was these questions and more that I considered when putting together my presentation.
The definition of charisma according to Wikipedia is:
- Compelling attractiveness or charm that can inspire devotion in others
- A divinely conferred power or talent
It goes on to discuss that the word originates “from the Greek “kharisma” meaning “gift” “of/from/favored by the God/divine” is a trait found in persons whose personalities are characterized by a personal charm and magnetism (attractiveness), along with inate and powerfully sophisticated abilities of interpersonal communication.”
Modern media describes charisma as the “X-Factor”, popularized of course by the talent show of the same name.
I suspect that some people appear to be charismatic because they have the ability to demonstrate confidence and a genuineness of character. They come from a place of authenticity and can create a real connection with people through their ability to “be there” for others. They ask questions and help people feel important and valued. They listen intently and allow everyone to be heard. They care and they can connect.
Furthermore they have a high level of self esteem. They are generally comfortable with themselves and are confident in their own abilities.
At the event I suggested that being charismatic is something that can be developed, it can be taught, so to speak. We are all born with a natural ability to connect with everyone. Just watch a very young child to see that this is true. They are naturally charismatic because they have no inhibitions, until they learn to have them that is.
We unlearn how to connect with others as we are conditioned by those who influence us. We are told by our parents and teachers to be quiet, speak only when given permission to do so, hold back until we are certain of our facts, don’t take risks, don’t speak to strangers, don’t ask for what we want as it seems greedy, sit down – shut up!
It is no wonder that so many people move into adulthood lacking confidence and feel intimidated by meeting new people. It is no surprise that many adults fear speaking in public and standing out from the crowd.
So, in fact, when I suggest that being charismatic can be taught, what I actually mean is that having charisma is something that can be created by unlearning that which we have learned to hold us back!
Charisma is indeed a gift from the divine and it is within all of us. We simply need to get out of our own way to find it again!
Wake Up to Your Charisma and get out of your own way. Try it, you might enjoy it. 
