Fresh from a costume fitting, where I had been posing in front of the mirror assuming what I thought was a strong position - arms folded, butch-looking...you know - I met with the woman in charge of Holloway police station. She gave me the most invaluable advice: never let them see you cry, and never cross your arms. When I asked why, she said 'because it is a defensive action and therefore weak.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the importance of body language and emotional control in projecting strength.
In this quote, Helen Mirren reflects on a valuable piece of advice she received regarding the importance of non-verbal communication and personal presence. It suggests that crossed arms and visible emotions like crying can signal defensiveness and weakness, which may undermine one’s authority or confidence. This wisdom is particularly applicable in situations where one needs to maintain a strong and assertive demeanor.
In practice
In a leadership workshop, this quote could be used to illustrate how body language impacts perceptions of authority.
There is that awful moment when you realize that you're falling in love. That should be the most joyful moment, and actually it's not. It's always a moment that's full of fear because you know, as night follows day, the joy is going to rapidly be followed by some pain or other. All the angst of a relationship.
People often ask me whether I prefer theater or film, and the answer is that I prefer the one I'm not doing: The grass is always greener.
I've been working every year since I started acting, and I got many awards before I won the Oscar for 'The Queen.'
I don't like the word 'strong,' because a strong character is never an interesting character. A character is made interesting by their vulnerabilities and their weaknesses.
I believe kids shouldn't be taught Shakespeare. They should experience it first by seeing a great production.
I am in a fabulously lucky position in that I get to wear beautiful, beautiful gowns for functions, which I can then give back. That way, they're not sitting in my wardrobe with me looking at them and feeling guilty. I love that, and I think when people have a fabulous function to go to, I'd recommend renting.
Progress would not have been the rarity it is if the early food had not been the late poison.
I'll tell you what: I believe mysticism is a very serious endeavor. One must be equipped for it.
He who is virtuous is wise; and he who is wise is good; and he who is good is happy.
My falcon now is sharp and passing empty, and till she stoop she must not be full-gorged, for then she never looks upon her lure.
I tend to feel if people say they're going to do something, they will, if given the chance.
No one would look at an infant baby asleep, and say 'What a lazy baby!' We know sleeping is non-negotiable for a baby. But that notion is quickly abandoned.
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