Freethinking isn’t Free
October 11, 2012 – 10:46 am
When I coined the term “mobility training” in the early 90s teaching at my university, other professors scoffed at the notion. When I published my book on the flow of natural movement impacting emotional state, the industry laughed at the idea of a primal mind-body connection to exercise. When I patented Clubbell swinging for three dimensional movement strength over a decade ago, they became angry at the idea that we adapt to systemic movement, not segmental muscles. When I launched the discipline of “tactical fitness” as a focus on accelerated recovery from excessive stress, they argued it was unnecessary and only more powerful output was needed. When I published the phrase “compensatory movement” suggesting that we must always specifically unload our actions, they claimed over-training is impossible. Now, each of those ideas has become an established sub-industry themselves.
My career has been built upon standing alone against the incumbent opposition to my ideas. Had I folded to their resistance, none of these ideas would have had a chance to come to life. And that will not stop. I will continue to ruffle feathers, and encourage the new generation in our community to do the same.
Even now, they will be upset by this post, claiming that only ego would attempt to take credit for accomplishments. Only our teachers deserve acknowledgement for creating the possibility of our achievements. But it takes your courageous temerity and obstinate stamina to resist the ridicule of others and remain true to yourself and your convictions.
As a result, I cannot endorse consensus as the highest form of social development. Rather, I hold authenticity as your most important contribution to others. YOU are the contribution! Compromise is a critical strategy for conflict resolution, but never let them pressure you to comprise your integrity or values… Or you will rob us all of the unique genius only you specifically could teach us.
very respectfully,
Scott Sonnon
www.facebook.com/ScottSonnon
