Ascending The Peak Takes Risk
January 2010 Sporting Clays Tip
by Dan Schindler
That I do work with a lot of students in a year's time grants me an experienced opinion. And I am privileged to be included in each and every lesson. With one exception (Gunny) - I have never learned more from anyone than my students.
So I find it interesting to watch how many shooters are romanced and seduced by all the tangibles. Holding it in your hands, surely there's something magical about it, surely there can be no doubt - this is THE one that will work better than any other. And it may. But down the road, many find this revelation: look not at what you have or where you are – but to step-by-step, consistent improvements.
The vast majority of my students fall into 2 categories: 1) new shooters who want to get started the right way. 2) more experienced shooters, frustrated because their current plateau has taught them that more shells at the range and self-taught shooting isn't leading to real progress. Both are making a commitment to a new mindset where their ROI (return on investment) will be higher and more gratifying – repositioning their game for "CHANGE." This requires taking risks.
If I can pass along the most important Tip of this year – or any year – it is this: If it isn't working, change it! Taking the risk – with a little patience & tenacity - will get more done in the shooting box than 50 cases of shells, following the definition of insanity.
"To get what you've never had,........ do what you've never done." To Peak performances – take the high road. If at first you don't succeed, consider taking the next Exit to a competent Certified instructor and consider Paragon's Certified instruction as well.
Be safe and very Happy Holidays everyone.
December 2009 Tip
The Jerk
Think about it. Balance a shotgun on a pin. Move the back end and the front end moves. Hold that thought please.
First - I ask that we mentally focus on a specific block of time - when your gun starts moving - all the way to the trigger pull. During that specific block of time -- using the second hand on your watch - notice how long 2 seconds is. Now 3 seconds. Now 4. Can we agree that this block of "swing and shot time" usually takes place somewhere between 2 to 4 seconds and - quite often - sooner? Seems right..............
February 2010 Tip
The Three Steps of a Lesson
A good teacher/instructor can't just be a lecturer. There's more to good teaching than just dispensing advice and information. When you register for a private lesson or a class with your friendly, local instructor, it is reasonable to expect your "mentor for the day" to be organized, look the part, and be truly attentive to what you have to say. It is also fair to anticipate that your instructor will take the time to ask why you are here today. He or she will listen to your specific questions and concerns - then tailor your lesson around those topics. Isn't that why you signed up in the first place? Yes it is..............
