Stage Combat: The Best Professional Development. Ever.

As a kid, I was not into sports. I found my passion on the stage with theatre. I felt most at home in the spotlight and the world of make-believe. Little did I know that years later, I would stumble upon something that would bridge the gap between my love for the stage and the world of physicality. Stage Combat in the form of sword fighting entered my life, unexpectedly merging two seemingly disparate worlds into one thrilling pursuit.

In a surprise twist, it has also taught me a lot about my growth as a business professional. Sword fighting may seem like unconventional training in professional development, but hear me out. Beyond its historical context and thrilling theatricality, sword fighting can teach you valuable skills to make you a better human being. Let’s explore why sword fighting might be the best professional development course you can take.

Always Make Your Partner Look Good
In stage combat, there’s an important rule: always make your partner look good. This principle is true in any collaborative work environment. You create a positive and productive atmosphere by supporting and uplifting each other. Sword fighting requires teamwork, coordination, and trust. Similarly, working together seamlessly and showcasing your colleagues’ talents professionally enhances the team’s overall success. So, whether you’re wielding a sword or sitting at a conference table, remember to prioritise the success of others alongside your own.

Go Slowly and Take Out the Gaps
At the beginning of your stage combat journey, you won’t execute lightning-fast moves like a seasoned warrior. The magic lies in creating a fluid and seamless fight. The key is to start slowly and gradually fill in the gaps so it is fluid. This process ensures that the fight looks believable. This idea also applies to rushing through a learning process that can lead to cracks in your understanding and hinder your growth. Just like in sword fighting, the goal isn’t necessarily to speed; it’s about ensuring you and your audience can follow and appreciate the journey. By taking your time, mastering the basics, and truly immersing yourself in the learning experience, you pave the way for a more comprehensive and sustainable growth trajectory.

Speed Isn’t the Goal; Clarity Is
In sword fighting, striving for lightning-fast strikes and parries can be achieved. However, the audience wants more than just a blur of action. They want to see the moves and understand what’s happening. Similarly, speed doesn’t necessarily equate to success in the professional world. Instead, clarity and effective communication are paramount. Whether you’re delivering a presentation, writing a report, or participating in a meeting, ensure your message is clear, concise, and easily comprehensible. Remember, it’s not about how quickly you deliver your work but how well it’s understood.

Confidence Comes from How You Do Your Work, Not What You Do
In sword fighting, confidence stems from your mastery of technique, precision, and stage presence. The same principle applies to the professional realm. True confidence doesn’t come from what you do but how you do it. When you approach your work with a sense of purpose, expertise, and professionalism, you exude confidence. Whether you’re a salesperson closing a deal or a designer presenting your latest creation, your attitude, attention to detail, and dedication inspire confidence in others. So, channel your inner swashbuckler, embrace your strengths, and bring your unique flair to every professional endeavour.

Sword-fighting as a professional development course is not a conventional choice, but it is the most thrilling class you will ever take. By adhering to the rules of stage combat and making your partner look good, you learn the importance of collaboration. Going slowly and progressively filling the gaps teaches you patience and the significance of a strong foundation. Remembering that clarity trumps speed in sword fighting reminds you to prioritise effective communication in your professional life. Lastly, understanding that true confidence comes from how you do your work, not what you do, empowers you to approach your professional endeavours with purpose and panache.

So, whether you pick up a sword or not, the lessons from sword fighting can undoubtedly enhance your professional development. Embrace the swashbuckler’s spirit, and let your career journey be adventurous!