April 1, 2009This Week in the World ~ Martial arts and Story arts
My husband is teaching me martial arts. When I try to block a throw, I flinch and my whole body stiffens. When he blocks my throws, (note I omitted the word “try”) he’s calm and relaxed.
My first step in martial arts is staying calm and conscious. I am learning to focus on what’s coming at me, and on the skills to deflect and redirect those attacks.
That’s the first step in SpeakStrong, too. Some verbal advances throw you off your game and cause you to react and go unconscious. Study those advances to identify what’s coming at you, and create responses to deflect and redirect those attacks.
My eBook Unite and Concur details how to handle hostile and manipulative political dialogue. The principles apply to all communication. Some day I’ll rewrite it to make it directly applicable to other conversations. In the meantime, I recommend it in its current form.
I challenge you to become aware of the ways you go unconscious in your conversations. Facing ourselves isn’t always fun, but developing mastery is, and facing ourselves is the first step.
The first section of my Say What You Mean eCourse is about becoming conscious of your communication habits.
New SpeakStrong story – Cinderella Sequel
I have a story coach helping me to master the art of story-writing. Story skills are important for the Speak Sweet part of Speak Strong, Smart and Sweet. My coach says a great story is one where the heart surprises the mind. Tell me if you think my new story does that.
Cinderella Sequel:
Sad and Happy Endings, New Beginnings and the Flow of Life
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I loved this story. I have been told that I am a storyteller, so from one to another, I think you’ve mastered this art. The story held my attention, left me wanting more and brought a tear to my eye. Great job. Thanks for the song, it is beautiful.
Comment by Sheila Watson — April 2, 2009 @ 10:06 am
Great story. I forwarded it to my daughter, who has a little girl, as well as alot of challenges in her life. It made me think of life a little differetly, thank you!
Comment by Michelle Shea — April 5, 2009 @ 7:20 am