How To Fight: Part 1
We all know the world isn’t what it used to be, especially when it comes to conflict. People hide behind screens and keyboards now, but back in the day, it was different—consequences were real, and fear kept you sharp. In this first part of How To Fight, we’re diving into the lessons learned from the old-school way of handling things and why that wisdom still matters today. And trust me, you’ll want to read Part 2 on Friday, where we take this deeper—where strategy, confidence, and insight come together in ways you didn’t expect.
Coach B
Image 1 is fun… but it’s also true.
Before the internet, conflict was settled mano a mano. 99% of the trash spewed online would never be said to someone’s face. This one’s both timely and timeless.
Image 2 hits home.
“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.”
A Tyson uppercut? That’s a different story.
And remember the old saying: “The pen is mightier than the sword”?
I expanded it to:
“The pen is mightier than the sword—when you’ve got a sword and know how to use it.”
I love that version. There’s a time to write and a time to fight.
Image 3 is a thinker.
I can’t stop looking at it. It sparks a ton of ideas.
For those of us focused on personal safety, Image #1 and #2 are easy to connect with. But #3… it’s a riddle.
At first glance, it’s clever and even funny, but then it gets you thinking.
And that’s the brilliance of it.
Does it tie into physical fighting?
What’s the deeper message?
Does the creator believe it’s an actual option?
I’ve got some thoughts that I’ll share in the next installment. But first, I want to hear YOUR take.
What’s your interpretation of the post, especially the last image?
Share your thoughts, and in a few days, I’ll be back with some thought-provoking insights.
Coach B
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FYI Image 3 was created by psychotherapist and artist Johan Deckmann. (Check out his short video and IG page—I highly recommend it.)
Hi Tony, great article. Can't wait to hear your thoughts. As a young boy my mother would always say just ignore them and they'll go away. When younger and working on the doors of nightclubs and bars I use to use this trick and had some success with it dealing with challenges, threats etc. They'd give up and walk away. Thanks for your posts. Step by step I'm slowly absorbing your beliefs, knowledge and perceptions on things associated with violent encounters and personal defense. I've been emptying my cup so I can receive your real world real life knowledge. I'm enjoying every moment of it Tony. Thanks!