Author: Craig Constantine

Molly Courtney | If Parkour is For Everyone, Why Doesn’t Everyone Want to Do It

May 30, 2023

On Castbox.fm — Molly Courtney | If Parkour is For Everyone, Why Doesn’t Everyone Want to Do It

How can coaches effectively bridge the gap between the benefits of Parkour and the reluctance or resistance of individuals to participate?

The discussion challenges the assumption that Parkour is universally appealing and explores why some people resist trying it.

When we stop trying to match their defense and the generalization, and try to encourage and give information, we give them space to start to think about other things, like what’s possible.

~ Molly Courtney (3:00)

The conversation addresses the challenge of making Parkour more accessible and appealing, particularly to those who resist it due to defensiveness, lack of confidence, or demoralization. It draws on psychological models like the Stages of Change to highlight why premature encouragement often backfires. Recognizing participants’ emotional states is crucial for building their readiness to engage in new activities.

Another key topic is the balance between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. Molly emphasizes that early learners benefit more from intrinsic motivators like verbal affirmations than external rewards, which can undermine their self-driven desire to improve. Techniques for fostering play and exploration are discussed, providing coaches with strategies for facilitating growth without overwhelming participants.

Takeaways

Stages of Change — Understanding where someone is emotionally helps tailor the approach to introducing Parkour.

Defensiveness and Demoralization — Recognizing these barriers and validating participants’ concerns can create space for progress.

Role of Play — Structured play fosters exploration and autonomy in early learners.

Motivation Theories — Intrinsic motivators are more effective than extrinsic ones for beginners.

Feedback Timing — Interjecting too early can harm engagement, while timely affirmation builds confidence.

Coaching Techniques — Setting clear boundaries and expectations facilitates safe and productive learning environments.

Psychological Models — Applying theories like self-determination and Stages of Change provides a scientific basis for coaching methods.

Resources

Stages of Change — A psychological model describing readiness for change in individuals.

Self-Determination Theory — A framework for understanding motivation and growth.

The Movement Park — Molly’s Parkour gym in Hillsboro, Oregon; resources for beginner and advanced movement training.

molly@themovementpark.com â€” For inquiries about Molly’s work and methods.

Social Media: @TheMovementPark on Instagram, The Movement Park on Facebook.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

É•

Setting and scene

May 29, 2023

Lately I’ve been struggling with setting. As many people have noted, excessive fiddling with getting things ready, or “just so”, before feeling one can begin to do something is simply a form of procrastination. It’s a form of hiding from doing the work. Steven Pressfield describes this as the “resistance” which shows up just when you are finally facing the real work that you are called to do.

I tell this story not because I think a method approach, in which you inhabit your characters and their behaviors, is the best way to write fiction. (If this were true, a lot more authors would take a swing at romance novels.) But instead because it’s an extreme example of a more general point that I’ve been emphasizing recently: when it comes to cognitive work, setting makes a difference.

~ Cal Newport from, On Vampires and Method Writing

slip:4ucabo7.

Setting is real, and it is important. But there’s a second part to finding (or creating) the optimal environment: Scene. Where are the others who are also doing the same work? It could be the other painters or authors like you, and you’re all living in a neighborhood and regularly gathering and conversing at the local cafes. (The archetypical writers scene of the 1900s was in Paris.) If I’ve imagineered a certain niche of work that I want to do, how do I find (or create) the scene?

É•

Creating connection

May 28, 2023

The alternative is an interaction that creates a connection instead of destroying it. Where is the eye contact? Where is the dignity that comes from recognizing another?

When we humanize the person at the other end of the counter or the phone or the Internet, we grant them something precious—personhood. When we treat the people around us with dignity, we create an entirely different platform for the words we utter and the plans we make.

~ Seth Godin

slip:4a1165.

Thank you I. Asimov

May 28, 2023

Over in my Open + Curious project, I’ve been working intentionally to improve my writing. For Open + Curious the more recent articles all begin with a clear posit (a statement which is made on the assumption that it will prove to be true) and then go on to explain why I believe that to be true; that’s their finished form. I was generally writing each piece, editing it to find and hone a single line of thinking, and then finishing up by crafting the leading posit. Yes, I know, “Craig discovers the essay.”

I’m reading I. Asimov and this advice leapt off the page:

What I do now is think up a problem and a resolution to that problem. I then begin the story, making it up as I go along, having all the excitement of finding out what will happen to the characters and how they will get out of their scrapes, but working steadily toward the known resolution so that I don’t get lost en route.

When asked for advice by beginners, I always stress that. Know your ending, I say, or the river of your story may finally sink into the desert sands and never reach the sea.

~ Isaac Asimov

slip:4a1193.

I’ve now written thousands of posts where I’ve led with a quotation from something. I’m forever writing some observation about what I’ve quoted, and then trying to pivot to what I actually want to say. Unfortunately, this style has begun to feel constraining.

Going forward, I’m going to see what happens if I think of what I’m quoting as giving me a direction. This piece starts with my thoughts about my writing for Open + Curious, and then looking “in the direction” of Asimov’s quoted contribution, beyond that I “see” this gibberish about my writing process. Sorry, maybe that’s all too meta? It’s noisy in my head.

É•

I’m starting to feel like an optimist

May 26, 2023

And I typed that title with trepidation. I’ve been saying forever, “You know what you call an optimist with experience? A realist.” I suppose at some point in the past, I must have had the rosy-eyed optimism of youth— but I don’t really recall that. Also at some point, I realized I had a solidly pessimistic position. I simply spent too much time dealing with broken technology; technology is always broken. I always seemed to end up having to fix it. But lately, my mood has certainly shifted. Is that because my “outlook” shifted, or is it vice versa?

The first time I saw speculative futures used to shape cities, I was standing on the work. It was an April evening years ago, and I was headed to a client meeting. I hustled from my car toward the building in question, my arms full of rolled paper, when I noticed a series of questions chalked in block letters on the sidewalk below my feet.

~ Johanna Hoffman from, What If The Best Times Are Still To Come?

slip:4uloie5.

I once QM’d 2km across the Williamsburg bridge. A fellow adventurer had started the morning by buying a croissant with the express intent of not eating it. (Aside: In the French origins or Parkour, they used to say [but in French of course] “…it’s okay, head home, put your feet up, and have a croissant.” As a way of hazing each other into pushing themselves a little harder.)

We had each taken a piece of sidewalk chalk with us. When we were ready to quit (ie, stand up and walk) we planned to write our “excuse” for stopping on the bridge pathway… and then continue on in QM, moving over and beyond our excuse.

I was over the middle of the river, pretty alone, in the chilly October drizzle. And thinking about quitting. And thinking about getting out my chalk… when I crawled—inconceivably! since the pathway is like 12 feet wide—directly over a freshly chalked hashtag… I was so tired I didn’t look up to read, I just stared straight down and read it as I crawled along what had been written…

#
I
D
I
D
N
T
E
A
T
T
H
E
C
R
O
I
S
S
A
N
T

It made me laugh. It reminded me that my friends were there too. It reminded me why we were doing the challenge. Thank you Kristen. I hope you read this.

É•

Balance with Alex Lukens

May 25, 2023

Balance with Alex Lukens

What strategies and practices can be employed to effectively balance physical, emotional, and mental well-being in personal and professional life?

Craig Constantine and Alex Lukens discuss movement practices and personal growth as they explore the notions of finding balance, and the importance of doing less in order to achieve more.

Doing less is okay and it’s still effective… There’s an identity attached to overdoing, overachieving, and winning.

~ Alex Lukens

Craig and Alex explore the realm of movement practices and the quest for balance. They discuss the challenges of adopting a heart-centered approach and the fear attached to doing less in personal pursuits. Alex introduces the idea of developing a maximally efficient and minimally effortful movement practice by combining the philosophies of Chinese kung fu and Judo.

Your movement practice can be maximally efficient and minimally with minimal effort as long as you put the work in and the discipline up front.

~ Alex Lukens

He draws parallels between movement practices and other disciplines, such as music, emphasizing the role of repetition, simplicity, and discipline in achieving profound results.

Takeaways

Discussing different approaches to journaling — Journaling can be used for various purposes, such as personal reflection, organizing thoughts, planning, and emotional processing.

Balancing ideas in journaling — It’s important to balance the flow of ideas coming into and out of the journal, ensuring a productive use of journaling.

The role of intuition in journaling — Journaling based on how one feels at the moment can lead to more authentic and effective entries.

Emptying the mind through journaling — Journaling can create a negative space, allowing for a clearer and more focused mindset.

Morning anxiety and rewiring thoughts — Addressing and changing the initial thoughts upon waking can significantly impact the rest of the day.

The connection between movement and thinking — Movement can be a tool to process and organize thoughts, leading to a clearer mental state.

Impact of journaling on daily interactions — A clearer mind from journaling can lead to more engaging and enjoyable interactions throughout the day.

Creating a personal style in coaching — Developing a unique approach to coaching that balances the heart and mind, influenced by martial arts philosophies.

Working with high achievers — Helping overachievers find balance and avoid burnout by addressing both physical and mental aspects of their lives.

The misconception of physical exertion — Understanding that exertion is optional and not always necessary for effective movement or exercise.

Fidgeting and natural movement — Incorporating small, natural movements throughout the day can maintain mobility and physical health without structured exercise.

Integrating martial arts philosophies into coaching — Using principles from kung fu and judo, such as hard work over time and maximum efficiency with minimal effort, to guide clients.

Simplicity through repetition — Achieving simplicity in movement and practice through consistent, disciplined effort.

The importance of lessening mental exertion — Recognizing that reducing mental strain can be as important as physical practice for overall balance.

Developing a movement practice — Encouraging clients to create personalized movement practices that are efficient and effective with minimal effort.

Curiosity about others’ movement practices — An interest in learning about different approaches to movement and how others develop their practices.

Challenges of guest outreach in podcasting — Identifying the logistical and relational challenges involved in scheduling and conducting podcast interviews.

Exploring themes through podcasting — Using podcasting as a method to explore and understand various themes and ideas from different perspectives.

The concept of minimal effective dose — Applying the principle of minimal effective dose to various aspects of life, including movement and journaling.

In-person training and connection — The value of meeting and training in person to enhance understanding and connection in coaching relationships.

Resources

fortysevenstyle.com: The web site for Alex’s Fortysevenstyle work.

Exercised: Book Alex mentions, by Daniel Lieberman.

É•

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Production with Jason Tieri

May 24, 2023

What are the primary creative and technical challenges faced in podcast production, as discussed by experienced podcasters in terms of editing, scheduling, client management, and creative mindset?

Explore the interaction of audio and video, as Craig and Jason discuss the crucial importance of nonverbal cues, the frustrations of unreliable Wi-Fi, and the irreplaceable value of face-to-face interactions in the world of podcasting.

I had that [imposter syndrome] with my clients too… They can’t start their first episode because they don’t like the sound of their voice.

~ Jason Tieri

In a captivating conversation, hosts Craig and Jason dive deep into the realm of podcasting, sharing their personal reflections and experiences. They explore the reasons behind their aversion to listening to their own work, discovering the mix of imposter syndrome and the fear of uncovering mistakes.

I’m always surprised at actually how good [my episodes] are.

~ Craig Constantine

I think I just don’t want to listen to [my own work] for a third time.

~ Jason Tieri

With a humorous touch, they discuss the perils of vocal quirks and mouth noises, shedding light on how some hosts may unintentionally overlook these aspects. They also touch upon the significance of video in podcasting, highlighting the benefits of nonverbal cues and the challenges of unreliable Wi-Fi. Ultimately, their discussion serves as a reminder of the constant learning and growth that podcasting entails.

Takeaways

Imposter Syndrome — Both Craig and Jason discuss experiencing imposter syndrome, highlighting a common struggle among podcasters and content creators. This psychological phenomenon adds a layer of relatability and vulnerability to their conversation.

Importance of Video — Jason emphasizes the importance of video in podcasting, not only for visual cues but also for better communication and understanding between hosts and guests. This insight sheds light on the multifaceted nature of podcasting and the role that different mediums can play in enhancing the overall experience.

Personal Growth — Jason mentions going through therapy during the course of his podcast, “Threads Podcast: Life Unfiltered.” This indicates that podcasting can be a transformative journey, leading to personal growth and self-reflection for hosts and guests alike.

Balancing Self-Criticism and Appreciation — Craig expresses both surprise at the quality of his podcast episodes and a persistent self-critical mindset. This internal struggle highlights the delicate balance between recognizing one’s accomplishments and constantly striving for improvement, which many podcasters can relate to.

Technical Challenges — The conversation briefly touches upon the challenges of internet connectivity and bandwidth, particularly when recording interviews with guests from different locations. This showcases the practical difficulties that podcasters face and the importance of stable internet connections for a seamless recording experience.

Resources

https://www.heyguysmediagroup.com: This is Jason’s production company, Hey Guys Media Group.

https://gigeconomyshow.com: This is The Gig Economy Podcast, which focuses on gig work and covers topics related to platforms like Uber, DoorDash, Lyft, and Instacart.

https://threadspodcast.com: Threads Podcast: Life Unfiltered is the show Jason recently completed.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

É•

Everything unresolved

May 24, 2023

I beg you, to have patience with everything unresolved in your heart and to try to love the questions themselves as if they were locked rooms or books written in a very foreign language. Don’t search for the answers, which could not be given to you now, because you would not be able to live them. And the point is to live everything. Live the questions now. Perhaps then, someday far in the future, you will gradually, without even noticing it, live your way into the answer.

~ Rainer Maria Rilke

slip:4a1163.

Work ethic

May 24, 2023

Hedonistic adaptation ensures that I continuously cycle back and forth between, “If this isn’t nice I don’t know what is!” and rage-quitting all my self-assigned should’s. Two things help temper my intemperance: Journalling provides me with some—albeit subjective—perspective, and reading about the reality of people’s actual lives and work ethics relaxes my self-criticism.

A truer answer would have been that he was fiercely private and deeply caring. He often let other people talk, entering a conversation with a single considered sentence. He didn’t smile unless he was really pleased, and his biggest laugh was a small chuckle. His eyes would squeeze shut and his head would tip back and after he chuckled, he would look at you with delight.

~ Alison Fairbrother from, Lessons in Writing and Life from My Grandfather, E.L. Doctorow

slip:4ulile1.

Without Internet cheating, I can’t name a single one of E. L. Doctorow’s works. But I have this diffuse idea that he is (was?) A Real Writer. Someone who got things written, and maybe had a few ideas worth sharing. Darn it if reading Fairbrother’s piece didn’t tug at the ‘ol heart strings, and I might have gotten something briefly stuck in the corner of one of my eyes.

But I came away with a recalibration: I now have this diffuse idea that he was A Real Writer, got things written, had a few ideas worth sharing, and it was made possible by his family and his work ethic.

(Also, maybe help this autodidact out by hitting reply and telling me one thing of Doctorow’s I must read.)

É•

Justin Taylor | How to Run a Members-Only Competition

May 23, 2023

On Castbox.fm — Justin Taylor | How to Run a Members-Only Competition

How can a members-only Parkour competition benefit both gym communities and business growth?

Find out how structured competitions drive engagement and long-term membership.

I realized: How is this benefiting me? I’m just throwing a competition for the sake of watching awesome athletes do awesome things. Which I have no problem with— that I have the West Coast Parkour championships for awesome athletes to come and push themselves. But that doesn’t push my gym, that doesn’t push my culture, that doesn’t help retain my students.

~ Justin Taylor (11:31)

The conversation explores the concept of members-only Parkour competitions designed to foster community, improve retention, and generate revenue within gyms. Unlike traditional competitions that attract elite athletes, these events focus on inclusivity, offering challenges that cater to all skill levels. Justin emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive environment where everyone has the opportunity to feel accomplished, even those who might finish last. Through tailored categories and multiple opportunities for recognition, these competitions build confidence and engagement among participants.

The discussion also highlights how such events extend their impact beyond the athletes. Parents build friendships and deepen their connections to the gym community, while participants develop personal growth, resilience, and teamwork skills. By incorporating preparatory challenges in regular classes and promoting participation through a structured framework, gyms can create a sustainable model that supports both personal and professional growth for all involved.

Takeaways

Running members-only competitions — A gym-focused approach encourages participation and builds confidence among members.

Avoiding participation trophies — Alternative reward structures can ensure every participant feels valued without diminishing achievement.

Strengthening community bonds — Competitions create opportunities for parents and students to connect socially.

Improving retention — Regular, inclusive events keep members engaged and returning to the gym.

Introducing competition circuits — Successful local competitions can serve as a gateway to regional or national circuits.

Building personal growth — Challenges in competitions can foster resilience, sportsmanship, and overcoming fears.

Focusing on inclusivity — Age-specific and skill-level-based categories ensure every participant has a fair chance to succeed.

Resources

Firestorm Freerunning & Acrobatics — A series of Parkour gyms offering classes and competitions.

West Coast Parkour Championships — A competition series for athletes of all ages and skill levels.

Parkour Professor — Instagram profile for consulting and updates related to Parkour.

FirestormFreerunning@gmail.com â€” Contact for inquiries and information.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

É•

Anxiously panicking

May 22, 2023

A couple of weeks ago I started obliterating processes. I’ve often talked about how everything is a process, and I still believe that. However I’d reached a point where I simply had too many processes (I won’t bore you with unbelievable examples) and a couple of weeks ago I decided enough was enough. I spent several days doing nothing but thinking about everything I was doing, and wanted to be doing but wasn’t “getting around to.”

We’re overwhelmed by it all: all the things we have on our plates, all the interruptions and messages and emails, all the things online and on social media, all the news and chaos of the world, all the things going on in our relationships.

~ Leo Babauta from, When You’re Overwhelmed, Simplify

slip:4uzeoe1.

Some things I do can feel like a chore but when I was honest, they are actually things I enjoy doing. Furthermore, they pay off outsized benefits for the time they require. What then made them feel like chores? I think it was the anxiety of the other things I felt I should be doing—after all, I put those other things on a list or made a process so I could chip away at them in sane-sized chunks. I went through everything, and then started deleting things from that “everything else” space.

Is this simply me oscillating between no-planning, planning, no-planning, planning? Is this a 2/3-life (or, if I pretend I’ll live long, “mid-life”) crisis? Have I said a polite-but-clear “no” to some big things? Have I been having some anxiety-free days? YES, to all of those. I’m currently trying to be vigilant to notice the first thing I get anxious about—because I’m going to delete that next.

É•

…and some housekeeping

May 22, 2023

Could you contribute a testimonial for 7 for Sunday? I’m always on the lookout for some, “This is better than sliced bread! ~ Craig C.” testimonials. If you’re open to being quoted, please hit reply and send me a testimonial. (They end up getting posted on the front of my site where the main signup is for 7 for Sunday.)

And please consider sharing 7 for Sunday with others. Forwarding the email you received works, but you can also just point people to https://constantine.name/7-for-sunday/.

Thanks for reading! I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted. :)

É•