The lesson you can learn from my best/worst book (and read it for free!)

Have you ever been told that you were terrible at something? How did you deal with it? It could make a big difference.

Human nature means we are often very self-critical while we rarely take time to acknowledge our strengths. This unbalanced approach is not very helpful, especially to Martial Artists or Fitness enthusiasts constantly under the watchful eye of a coach or instructor. So what is the solution?

I recently spent time researching how top athletes handle criticism and in turn learned about how you can see the deeper lesson behind negative (or positive) comments.

It’s all about what you can learn from someone’s criticism, not necessarily how you feel about it.
  “Ok, I might not be happy about that comment. But what can I learn from it?”
  For example I’ve always been privileged to offer advice and tips to many people but one of my books seems to split audiences right down the middle:
Martial Arts: The Truth Behind the Myths (It’s free right now)

 
  I originally wrote this book as a fun exploration of some of the misconceptions within an area I am passionate about, with a few references for each point.

But here’s the thing: People HATE it!...Or they LOVE it!

One reviewer gives it a single star and calls it “POISON TO THE MIND” (yes, in all caps) while others give it 5 stars and call it “Fascinating Reading!” So what’s the deal?

Running around trying to change everything in the book would not be helpful so instead I asked. “What is behind these comments?” From this I learned:

• People are passionate about Martial Arts
• People are proud of their style
• There is often no ‘right’ answer

Learning to accept criticism and turning it to your advantage can be a powerful tool in physical training and mental well-being.

Criticism is an important part of growth. In fact, how we deal with criticism from others is crucial but how we also deal with self-criticism can be even more so. Studies have shown that turning negative self-criticism into something constructive creates long term performance gains.

So instead of thinking: “I’ll never manage that 5K run” try “Lots of people find running hard but I’m getting better all the time”

• “That turning kick was terrible” becomes “If I work on that turning kick it will be great”
• “I really should get to the gym” becomes “I’m going to go to the gym”

These are small changes that make a big difference. Turn criticism into a question or spin a negative into a positive and you will quickly see improvements whatever your fitness or Martial Arts goals.

Give it a go and have a great weekend!

 - Phil


P.S  You can check out the book in question here for free
I’d love to get your feedback so please leave a review if you’ve read it and found it interesting!