"The Magic Of Conflict: Turning a Life of Work into a Work of Art" by Thomas F. Crum is different from many of the books I have on conflict, and is a bit older. It was written in the late 80s and the Foreword and Photographs are by the late John Denver. First, different and
The
Millionaire’s Brain Academy older does not make this book less valuable when dealing with today's conflict, in fact, the book is as relevant today as it was when written. It's different because Crum's take on conflict comes from his years of studying the martial art of Aikido. His Aiki Approach is one that is practical not only for dealing with external conflict, but one that an individual can use to overcome struggles within oneself to live a more harmonious life at home and the office.
As a martial artist, mediator, and attorney who deals a lot with conflict resolution, this book called out to me, and I found myself not only enjoying the book, but agreeing and seeing similarities to my own practices, both as a martial artist and as a mediator.After the Foreword and a short introduction, Part One: The Challenge focuses on the extraordinary state, the nature of conflict, and conflict and contest. In Part Two, The Aiki Approach, Crum discusses concepts such as choosing to be centered, accepting your connectedness, the power of discovery, being willing to understand, being willing to change, and choosing to cocreate. The next two chapters, Part Three: Fight, Flee, or Flow, are Don't Sweat the Small Stuff and no Boundaries. The book concludes with Part Four: Taking It To the Streets with chapters on putting it to work and Masters of Aiki