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By Tim Schofield
13-April-2020
I haven't read a book that has been so open hearted, revealing and strangely motivating at the same time. Enjoyable, with a baring of the soul during his hardest times it gave me inspiration and an understanding of how I need to think to achieve my life goals. Knocked down? Get back up with a smile and forge on. Thank you for an honest read.

By Neal Marshall

25-May-2015

As the old saying goes “Don’t judge a book by its cover”. Still, I could not help but to wonder about the title “Drop Your Pants” Nevertheless, such an eye-catching title effectively grabbed my attention, and once I started reading, the book was engrossing, from start to finish. We all experience life’s ups and downs. Though the author’s own varied experiences are no doubt different from our own, the vivid descriptions make it easy for the reader to relate. That, combined with many excellent ideals and philosophies to learn and to live by, also captivated my attention. The various episodes in the author’s life also facilitated a nice, even consistent flow: well described, but not overly wordy, and just the right length (not too short, not too long). Never a dull moment for this reader! I was also impressed by the many examples of how anything can happen – both positive and negative - in this world in which we live. One day, some people may have it all, but next day just scrape by. Though it was neither a short nor easy road, the author proves that with hard work, just about anything is possible.

Highly recommended!

 

 

By Robert Grylls

6-May-2015

We here in Canada, in my generation and probably one or two generations before mine, can have a misguided sense that history is 'over.' (See "The End of History" by Francis Fukuyama). This book brings to life how recently the arms of totalitarianism were still reaching into people's lives. What Ralph Haenel endured to achieve freedom and pursue his martial arts dreams, it is truly harrowing and truly inspiring. It has given him a very unique and profound perspective on the notion of hardships in life, which we can all learn from.

 

 

By Jason Ludwig

8-Feb-2015

The stories contained within this book are utterly astounding. It's one thing enduring and overcoming such traumatic events, let alone writing a book about them in such an open and light-hearted way. Friends and students of Sifu Ralph should be left humbled to personally know him after reading this book, which defines true determination.

 

 

By David Nguyen

25-Jan-2015

An enjoyable read. I doubt anyone would want go through the same things Sifu Ralph did but through his unique sense of wit and fun story telling, an otherwise serious tale of accounts from an extraordinary man becomes an invitation for the reader to learn and be inspired to challenge their own comfort zone.

 

 

By Adrian Jipescu

24-Jan-2015

Ralph's life journey can be read in 19 brief stories of a 50 pages book! That's an average of 2.6 pages per story. It's really an art to be able to capture in such a few words the essence of each story; and at the same time having the luxury to meditate, conclude and draw life lessons from each of them. Definitely, Ralph had in mind the modern busy people who has no time for reading thick books! :)) Each story could be the start of a screen play; actually the book feels like a saga and it could easily be made into an captivating TV series. More importantly though, is that something from this book stays with everyone: whether be it somebody starting on the adventure of life - who would like to walk in Ralph's footsteps, as the youngster in the book, or somebody who wished have had accomplished becoming a Sifu, but didn't have all the P's (sic! Persistence, Perseverance, Patience... and Passion) needed for such a tremendous endeavor. I think the title "From Chaos to Success" says the truth. And Ralph's biggest success is that he could forgive those who tried to destroy him for no reason, forget the past, came out stronger from the adversities in life and focused on his goals. The downside of this book is that: beside waiting to meet Ralph in his always intriguing seminars, everybody ended up now looking forward to his next book or movie!! No pressure, Sifu.. :)

 

 

By Staffan Rydin

21-Jan-2015

I read this book in one evening immediately after meeting Ralph for the first time. Like a good Kung Fu punch, these real-life stories were delivered straight from the heart. The writing is lighthearted and authentic and shows us how adversity can willingly be transformed into growth and opportunity. Get knocked down seven times? Get up eight. To me, this is what Real Power is all about! Thank you Ralph.

 

 

By Michael De Ruyter

6-Jan-2015

I really enjoyed reading this book. It has multiple facets. On one hand the author with a light/easy to read style runs you through a series of tough experiences, extracting life lessons and demonstrating what it is to not give up. And on the other hand I was fascinated by the stories happening during the cold war describing events that you'd think only happened in movies.

 

 

By Atta Ermani

4-Jan-2015

Reading these series of short stories through tears and smiles brought a much needed boost and sense of purpose to the work I want to bring to the world. Ralph's life lessons touched my heart and opened up new perspectives on life, love, and how to find breakthroughs in the midst of insurmountable difficulties.

 

 

By Natalia Nimetz

29-Dec-2014

I took my time reading and devouring every word of Drop Your Pants. Sifu Ralph Haenel has a way with words and humour capturing my interest throughout. After each story, his words of wisdom in being positive no matter what the hardships inspires one not to lose sight of your passion. To keep working hard and a new door opens. Trust in oneself. Ralph showed us that it is possible to achieve one’s dream. He did. He shared that even though he has accomplished what he wanted to do there continues to be that thirst for growing and learning. Ralph Haenel’s writing style gives us food for thought without going deeply into the details yet, he did it in a way that peaks your interest in wanting to read more. I see Drop Your Pants as Book 1, to inspire and motivate one to follow your passion. I am ready for Book 2, the next chapter with more depth and detail. I feel Ralph has many more stories to share. He has a unique gift for writing and to nurture that gift to share his knowledge and experience of life which we can all learn from.

 

 

By Darrin Chen

25-Dec-2014

Sometimes you get stuck with life thinking "Why me?". Have you ever thought that there are definitely people who have it worse out there? You should think twice before thinking you're having the worst life in the world. In this book, Ralph Haenel tells us unimaginable experiences that we wouldn't even think of, even if we were trying to make it up. He shows us that even with those difficult experiences, he is able to overcome it through his positive attitude, actions, and risks that he takes. As long as you don't give up on yourself, there is always a way as long as you try. Read this book to see his life journey and how he got to where he is today. Try to picture his life as you read it. It isn't a long book and you will definitely find it worth your time reading it.

 

 

By Bojan S

12-Dec-2014

The book is written in light hearted tone, easily commanding reader attention; individual stories serve a function to constructing overarching theme - unconditional optimism and faith in better tomorrow despite very depressing environment and times it describes. Author's main message is that human spirit can overcome any obstacle; whenever you feel angry, depressed or not-in-the-mood over little things we perceive important - open this book and you will quickly realize how trivial our problems are compared to what Sifu Ralph had to endure on his path to, literally, freedom.

 

 

By Nilo Lida

6-Dec-2014

If you ever felt trapped, frustrated as if the whole world is against you then you must read, this true to life story of the author Ralph Haenel. It is a great motivational book that would uplift your spirit.

 

 

By Michael Lau

5-Nov-2014

It's fascinating to read this book. It brings me to another part of the world and another period of time that I have never experienced. I was there without actually being there! And most of us probably take Kung Fu lessons for granted because it seems very easy to attain lessons in our part of world. Sifu, Ralph Haenel, on the other hand knew how to appreciate the value of self-defense even in his youth. And through his Perseverance Persistence and Patience, he has become a successful Wing Tsun Kung instructor and a great martial artist. There are many fascinating things that Sifu, Ralph Haenel has experienced and led him to become who he is today, one must read.

 

 

By Rhonda Bacon

29-Oct-2014

This book has it all - intrigue, drama, mystery (just who were those doppelgangers?) but most of all this is a story of motivation and inspiration. Surviving murder attempts, betrayals, and incarceration one would expect a world weary and bitter person, but Ralph rises above it all with compassion, humour and a positive mantra for living with his 3 P's: Persistance, Perserverance, Patience. And of course, his 4th P - Passion, which is evident in his undaunted spirit! A great read, very uplifting. Can't wait to see more.

 

 

By Joy Katkic

23-Sep-2014

The Three P's of life: Persistence. Perseverance. Patience. This is also followed by Passion according to Ralph Haenel. While this seems a simple formula, it is not so easy to follow but definitely the tried and true ingredients to getting the most out of life. Ralph shares his anecdotes that reveal some of life's truths in his book when he encounters obstacles, heartache and disappointment time and again only to resurrect himself with unwavering resolve and shiny optimism. The stories contained within are fascinating and riveting, especially the KGB Romeo and Juliet encounters where he was betrayed, that happened not only once, but twice! Outside of the movies, how many people do we know that get seduced and poisoned by Secret Service agents to get us to divulge information? Quotable quotes are all throughout the book that can easily serve as mantras for anyone who needs motivation or a new perspective. Ralph's triumphs over adversity are truly an inspiration. We CAN survive, we can dream and we can achieve. These are the underlying currents of this well-told journey.

 

 

By Evan Kwong

21-Sep-2014

Can you imagine missing colours? I think the most moving chapter in this book was “A Grown Man Who Cried Over a Flower”. Sifu Ralph Haenel is a remarkable Wing Tsun Kung Fu instructor, master, and coach. He is also a great writer, judging by his blog (http://www.realisticselfdefense.net/blog/), and also this new book. This book was very captivating, summarizing many stories of turmoil and unexpected surprises. Each of these real short stories depict ultimate examples of overcoming tragedies that could have easily caused a person to spiral downwards into oblivion. Throughout each story, I was thinking to myself about how he (and others) fought to overcome various tragedies. Then I came upon the chapter about the 3Ps, then later the final important P… Passion. Key elements on how he survived, and how we can all survive.

 

 

By Odoranai

21-Sep-2014

Written with humour, yet packed with honest and surprising stories that you wouldn't expect to read from a man I have always considered a happy, cheerful and positive person. I am humbled by how the author has taken every challenge and acts of treason against him and turned these into strengths, gentleness, and a spirit that refuses to be defeated. Even if you do not know the author, there are tales in this book of how even in the worst of situations, to keep your spirit alive and strong is how to overcome whatever is thrown at you, and most importantly, to not lose yourself in anger and pain, but to come out of these situations as a compassionate and caring person. An excellent short read that you will not be able to put down as you move through the stories in this book.

 

 

By Odoranai

21-Sep-2014

If you've ever felt that the world is against you and that there is no way out, then read this book. Learn how the author has literally gone through hell, and yet has come out as one of the most compassionate, gentle and humorous people I know. Face the challenges that life throws at you, move forward, stick with what comes, and when you have to, yield, but yield only to charge up, not to give up!

 

 

By A. Cole

17-Sep-2014

I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in real life. Ralph Haenel gives a brief description of not so fortunate happenings and experiences in his life. Showing us that things in our own lives can always be worse, and that we need to keep our heads up in times of adversity, to help others however we can when we can....for this is part of the key to success ....as he says success comes from outside our comfort zones, good things are not obtained easily .... his idea of the 4 Ps will show proof of this. I found personal motivation and strength in this quick and straight forward read. I think this book would be good help for anyone finding themselves on uncertain ground..... Looking forward to more material from this exceptional man.

 

 

By Ada Tuck

16-Sep-2014

These are stories that exemplify the courage and resilience of a highly skilled teacher and martial artist in the face of what was the grim reality of the former DDR. In 'dropping his pants' he also shows us what real self-confidence means; it is about the ability to rise above difficulties with dignity and insight, while still maintaining a sense of humour. I only wish he would write more about his experiences in the former East Germany.....I get the strong sense there are still many stories to tell.

 

 

By Patrick W Cho

7-Sep-2014

Sifu Ralph Haenel, I want to thank you for sharing your incredible journey of life which no one will believe unless they have met and know who you are. Your courage and determination is an inspiration to all and a reminder to everyone to stick with their goals no matter what they are and how difficult it may seem at the moment. Reward is there for those who persevere and everyone should read your life story. I am honored to know you and wish you all the best on your continued success.

 

    

By Chung Chiu

7-Sep-2014

A very small book but packed full of honesty, humility, and difficult stories and a glimpse into the incredibly character, resilience and stoic nature of Sifu Ralph Haenel to not only make lemonade when life gives you lemons but to hope that his stories can inspire others to do the same. A wonderful heartfelt read, that wows and astonishes with every turn of the page. In Chinese the saying is "deet un ghen" to literally drop one's glasses and translates roughly into something that is astonishing beyond belief. Drop your pants and your glasses as well.

 

 

By Anselm Meyer

6-Sep-2014

I highly recommend it. Its a fantastic book, written by an actual real world Kung Fu master in modern times. The motivational stories are based on real events where some of them deal with very harsh realities of life. And yet they are told in a very humorous entertaining way, while still showing its somberness. Unlike other motivational books out there, "Drop Your Pants" is NOT about cheesy pop culture babel or materialistic narcissism as so many countless motivational books out there. Ralph Haenel's "Drop Your Pants" is about historical and personal events that show even the harshest times will eventually change and that personal Dreams and Hopes can become realities again, since change is constant and simply put, you never know. A perfect example of ZEN.

 

 

By Kevin Chen

4-Sep-2014

I'm incredibly impressed by how the author, Ralph Haenel, has moved past his past. Today, if you met him, you may not believe he had such a dark history because of his glowing character. Personally, I liked the "Romeo and Juliet Secret Service" stories and "The Grown Man who cried Over a Flower" the most. These are TRUE stories which sound like plots of Hollywood movies. This book offers an insider's look within East Germany during the Cold War. If you're interested in stories about abused human rights, corrupt societies, and positive self development, I recommend this one to you.

 

 

By Marcel Schaubs

2-Sep-2014

I had great pleasure in reading this book by my Kung Fu Sifu Ralph Haenel. I heard the "bing" on my phone of an email and when I opened it up and started reading the ebook I had to put everything aside and finish it right there. I too reacted very emotionally and became very motivated to achieve some specific goals after reading this book as I know that if he could survive and thrive...so can I. I'd heard some of his stories in bits and pieces over the years of attending group classes as well as during private lessons and always thought, "wow Ralph is a pretty well adjusted man for all the things he's been through". I am always impressed with his ability to see through to the silver lining or to the thought pattern less destructive or negative, he has a way of shrugging it off and now I know why. I'm seeing more and more how Kung Fu principles translate to life and that it's obviously influenced him in a positive way in order for him to be the success that he is and help him through his tough times in life. I've spent a lot of time explaining to friends and Kung Fu prospects how talented, dynamic and amazing Ralph is, now I have a tool to help explain it better. I've ordered the print version to have on-hand to pass out to friends in need of a pick-me-up. Great motivational book in a brief format.

 

 

By Brian Yam

1-Sep-2014

Overall I thought it was a great read and I can really understand how this can be inspiring. I’m reading “Man’s Search for Meaning” by Viktor Frankl (I’m really into self-development material) and your experience shares many similarities and conclusions. The book, for me, was very inspiring and I love that feeling. Thanks for putting this together and sharing this with me. Would love to see this book expanded on and should that ever happen - I’d be interested in getting my hand on it.

 

 

By John D

1-Sep-2014

Once I started, I could not stop turning the pages. Some interesting insights into how the secret service worked. Most people in the West have no idea what went on in East Germany before the fall of the Berlin Wall. This book opens that door, and gives you a glimpse from a personal point of view. It is important to not forget the lessons of the past, otherwise it is easy to repeat them. Certain aspects of Ralph Haenel's life sounds like a film - albeit a dark one in places. Thoroughly recommended.

 

 

By Donna D

1-Sep-2014

I want to start by thanking Sifu Ralph for sharing his very private and at times harrowing early start in life. Ralph Haenel's past really does read like a Hollywood movie. I was blown away by the revelations in this book and how you have turned a harrowing experience into a positive life experience, you are an example to us all. I think you truly get across how we cannot run from our past, but how we let it effect our future is up to us. If we can turn difficult and stressful situations into positives as you have done then we are not ruled by our past. The way you have used your life experiences and called them "stories" is amazing. The life changing lessons you have taken away from each experience is a positive one, and I feel these will really touch and help not just students but any reader at various times of their lives. I can't imagine anyone reading this book and not be touched in some way.

 

 

By Ariane Meyer

28-Aug-2014

This book is very inspirational and reminds us that if we truly believe in something and envision it , it can happen. When you go through this book , the stories will awaken many emotions in you from sadness to excitement and hope. Many awesome quotes in there as well. Filled with a lot of depth, history of things going on before Germany was reunited and of course lots of wisdom. Thank you for bringing out a book like this. I have a big collection of inspirational readings and this is a definite keeper.

 

 

By Steve McMinn

28-Aug-2014

The book is great! I'm a big fan of short and inspirational stories. Reminders that we all have hard times on our way to hopefully eventual success, whatever success means for us.... Like the Zen koans, such stories are able to be easily remembered, recalled and meditated upon. These are things we must remind ourselves of daily, and we should never tire from looking around us, realizing we all go through the same sorts of setbacks and navigate many of the same obstacles. Where Sifu Ralph's book stands out is the fact that 99% of its readers have never gone through arbitrary arrest and imprisonment, left sitting in a cell wondering if they will ever get even a small piece of their lives back. That he has triumphed over those circumstances gives the reader the perspective to compare their most-likely less harrowing circumstances, and the confidence to know that if such seemingly insurmountable odds can be overcome, they surely can do the same as a member of a free and democratic society! As Ralph's student, its very nice to get a further insight as to our Sifu's journey through life. Just as we enjoy hearing about his WT journey, we'll also enjoy having the curtain pulled back a bit on what made our Sifu the man he is today! I think it is very brave of him to open up about these dark times, in order that others can learn and grow from the obstacles overcome. In our wider health and wellness industry, I think this is really the best way to forge a long and lasting connection with the maximum amount of people. Realizing that everyone is only human, despite their overwhelming skill in certain areas. Thanks for writing Drop Your Pants!

 

 

By Pablo Tenret

28-Aug-2014

I'll be honest. This book made me very emotional. This book is honest and from the heart. It's one of the most touching works I've ever read because it expressed in simple terms Sifu Haenel's journey, the almost unimaginable hardships he faced, how they have shaped him and how he pulled through. Highly recommended.

 

 

By Ali Lotfi

28-Aug-2014

Si-Fu Ralph reminds us that success indeed happens outside of one’s comfort zone. This is a must read for anyone who is about to give up on their dreams, just to remember that there is no replacement for Persistence, Perseverance & Patience.

 

 

By Chris Chinfen

21-Aug-2014

One man's amazing journey to chase his dreams despite innumerable hardships and setbacks. This is a martial arts story, but the goal can be anything you want it to be. After reading Si-Fu Ralph's story, nothing is impossible.

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