What are your office 'reflexes'?
Our little habits at work say a lot about our emotions and state of mind. What are you unwittingly disclosing each day from 9 to 5? We have the answers!
During discussions, I often put my finger to my mouth.
This gesture shows that you are about to bypass the thinking and logic to focus your energy on your instincts and creativity. But be careful about misunderstandings, because this small gesture can also reveal a desire to seduce...
Sometimes, whilst listening to a colleague, I leave my hand over my mouth.
Hand cupped like a funnel? Uh-oh, this is a bad sign for your speaker: this is, in fact, indicative of hostility. Palm over her mouth as a gag? This means that you wish to self-censor. (What is it that is burning your lips though?)
At meetings, I sometimes lean forward in my chair, legs and arms crossed.
Indicative of some discomfort, this forward projection also expresses a fear of being rejected. Crossed legs with your knee resting against the edge of the desk? This is a sign that you want to protect your territory. Having your legs crossed is a very common gesture, and usually a way to guard against stress.
I tend to touch my neck in meetings.
Fingers crossed on your neck, elbows raised… This means simply need to take a break: fatigue has taken over. Securing the left hand on the neck is a way to reassure yourself whilst facing a difficulty. Scratching your head with an object? Symbolically, you are arming yourself, and showing distrust – take note of it before war is declared!
Whilst speaking, I count on my fingers.
One little, two little, three little…what a ridiculously rational thing you are! Well, at least you try to be. And to do this, you like to put things in perspective and give an impression of having control over your ideas. It is a certain type of bluff, because this reflex is the first sign of a lack of confidence... therefore it is you, before anything else, trying to persuade everyone that everything makes sense.
Mélissa Beau
