The philosophy behind Skydive Chicago’s training programs emphasizes the importance of using knowledge to dispel fear. This mindset led to the development of a 20-minute tandem class aimed at educating brand-new skydiving students on gear, procedures, and what to expect. Over the years, this training has helped countless new skydivers embrace the fundamentals of skydiving, replacing fear with curiosity. It has made each participant more educated, more comfortable, and more open to enjoying their experience fully.
How to dispel fear with knowledge? To understand how this works, we can refer to the work of cognitive researcher Robert A. Monroe. Monroe proposed that we should turn our ‘unknowns’ into ‘knowns,’ using a “different overview” as a way to eliminate fear.
What Is an “Overview,” And Why Should We Change It?
Monroe defines an “overview” as our self-concept, which includes how we perceive ourselves and the world around us. Our overview is shaped by experience, creating a pattern of beliefs that influence our thoughts and actions. When there is an open space in that pattern, fear can emerge. Fear stems from believing something without examining it logically, which is often the result of an educational vacuum.
As a skydiving educator and athlete, it became clear that many skydiving students were afraid because they didn’t have the foundational knowledge they needed to feel at ease. Many skydiving dropzones, then and now, don’t take the time to educate first-time jumpers about what they will experience, assuming it’s not worth the time for someone who might only jump once. However, the philosophy at Skydive Chicago is different.
Monroe believed, as do many at Skydive Chicago, that our overview is dynamic. It changes daily, regardless of whether we’re consciously working to change it. It’s our responsibility to improve it, requiring focus and attention on the areas we wish to change.
How to Change Your Overview
Monroe provided a specific approach to transforming a troubled overview. This involves getting your fear of the unknown onto paper, becoming specific about the unknowns, and organizing them in a way that diminishes fear.
At Skydive Chicago, the best way to do this is by ensuring that new tandem students are as informed as possible about the process: the equipment, the aircraft, the exit, body position, and the landing. By removing surprises, students gain confidence and feel more at ease.
Inspired by these principles, Skydive Chicago continues to help students overcome fear through knowledge. When you arrive at the dropzone, you’ll be invited to learn more, dive deeper, and have an informed, educational, and fulfilling experience on your first tandem skydive. Make a reservation today and see for yourself!
