Chapter 78: What-if's (The What-IF Monkey Dance)

Ever hear a what-if question? When teaching seminar's there is always someone out in the group/audience who will speak up and ask, "What if ?"

What I am hinting at is this, is a what-if question a good thing or a bad thing? I think it depends on the environment in which the question is asked. If it comes during a demonstration then it may be disruptive and distracting. After all, in the demo it is often a specific being taught. Specifics are a good thing initially in a teaching scenario. The what-if's should be discussed later after the initial demonstration scenario is learned and practiced until properly accomplished in a very narrow way. 

What-if's then should be discussed and there will be discovered many what-if's when it is practiced and trained adequately. Seeking a what-if question and answer too soon just distracts and disrupts. 

If you get a what-if question too soon it is imperative that whomever is demonstrating, etc. cut it off immediately with a full explanation as to the what-if's proper time, place and need. 

What-if questions do have a place in training and practice. It is imperative one understands when, where and how they are used along with why they are not appropriate in some instances. 

What-if's when used appropriately provide a very powerful technique that encourages creativity and invention as long as they remain within the scope of the system your teaching that includes the many aspects of defense, protection and violent encounters. 

Then the question begs to ask, “What is an appropriate what-if question?” Ask yourself before you open your mouth to ask:

Q:Is the speaker done with the subject?

Q:If done, did the question get answered within the lesson?

Q:Is my question necessary? Is it valid? Is it true?

Q:Is my question appropriate to the lesson or is it my ego asking for attention?

Q:Is my question based on facts or valid concepts?

Q:Will my question benefit all who are in attendance?

Short Q:“Is it true, is it necessary/helpful to all parties, and is it kind to all participants, is it an inspiring one, and is the question appropriate/necessary?