The Power of Point of View (POV)
Years ago, in an acting class, the teacher gave us an exercise that’s stayed with me: she called it point of view (POV). We’d repeat the same line, but shift the belief behind it. Even something as simple as “It’s Thursday.” Powerful, defeated, confused, relaxed…
Same words, completely different presence. The voice, posture, and energy changed instantly.
Why Your Belief Trumps Your Words
She drove it home with this example: in the balcony scene from Romeo and Juliet, imagine the director telling Romeo, “Play it as if you never get what you want.” Suddenly, he’s hesitant, unsure, maybe even a little desperate. Next, the director instructs him, “Now play it as if you’re irresistible.” Confident, bold, magnetic. Same lines. Completely different effect. This shows that your body always believes your core thought.
Applying POV: From Personal Life to the Boardroom
I started using this technique in my own life, and I still rely on it. If I’m headed to an event that I assume will bore me, I ask myself, “What interesting conversations might be possible tonight?” That tiny shift makes me more open and curious—and I almost always have a better experience than expected.
A client of mine in real estate tried this recently. As she walked down her Upper West Side block, her POV was: “I’m one kick-ass real estate agent. I’m the best. Everyone wants to work with me.” She didn’t perform it; she simply believed it for a block or two.
The Immediate Impact on Professional Presence
The change was immediate—her walk, the way people looked at her. She carried it into meetings and showings. Continuing the practice, her presence—and her results—kept improving. Over time, identity starts to follow.
It seems simple, right? But real change requires commitment. Going all in turns this technique into a consistent practice that changes how people respond to you.
Try This: Take a Thought for a Walk
Choose your state, choose your story. Pick a thought and carry it with you for a few minutes—walking to the bank, grabbing lunch, or heading to your next video call.
Some ideas to try:
- I can truly have anything I want.
- People enjoy being around me.
- I help people feel at ease.
Notice what shifts—your voice, your energy, your whole perspective. You don’t have to force it; it happens naturally because your body accepts the truth of your choice.
Judy
P.S. If you try this, let me know what you notice in the comments below! I always love hearing your feedback.