If you are someone who suffers from anxiety or stress of any type, Presence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges by Amy Cuddy is a literal life changer. This book is an amalgation of life transforming research that arose after Amy gave a TED Talk about “power poses” back in 2012. Afterwards she received a plethora of feedback from people who felt empowered after power posing.
Amy was involved in a car accident several years ago which threatened to immobilize her life physically, socially and intellectually. Fast forward to the present — she is now a professor and researcher at Harvard Business School, a living, walking proof that her techniques work. The brilliant research in her book is presented in an easy to digest format with enough practical advice that you can start practicing them within each chapter.
“Presence is not about winning. It cannot be motivated by desire for a certain outcome — although the outcome is likely to be better when you are present. It’s about approaching your biggest challenges without dread, executing them without anxiety, and leaving them without regret.”
– Amy Cuddy
Everyone has anxiety of one form or another time to time so if you know anyone suffering from it or any type of stress that is limiting them from living the life you know they can lead, please show them the TED Talk above and give them this book.