How to Upstage People
The term "upstage" derives from the theater, wherein downstage is located at the front nearest the audience and upstage is located in the rear farthest away from the audience. Besides referring to stage location, it also has another connotation of overshadowing someone or stealing the spotlight. This additional implied meaning also comes from the theater, as one actor can make himself the center of attention by moving upstage, causing other actors to turn their backs toward the audience in order to interact with the spotlight hog. Upstaging is also done in a variety of other situations, particularly so in social and group events. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Pick out an outfit that will grab people's attention and keep eyes on you when you attend a social gathering. The outfit doesn't have to be flashy or risqué, but it should be sharp and show off your best assets.
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Bring an item to the gathering that people will be compelled to talk about or gawk at. Depending on the situation this could include jewelry, lavish food, expensive drinks or over the top gifts.
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Be gregarious and use a boisterous voice. On your entrance, let it be known that you have arrived by mingling with everyone and continue to do so until you depart. During the event, try to gather a group people around you by telling an interesting story in a lively voice. If the conversation begins to turn in another direction, make sure to always chime in to bring the focus back onto you.
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Be the first person to blog, tweet or Facebook about the event. Make yourself front and center by including pictures of yourself and talking all about the exploits you were involved in at the social event in question.
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Tips & Warnings
Don't take it to extremes or else people could find your upstaging annoying and just avoid you.
Remember to smile a lot and make some jokes. People gravitate towards happy and humorous people.
References
Resources
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