You know you’re dancing when one of these thoughts crosses your mind

• “I’m too different—too old, too young, too gay, too straight, too fat, too thin, too poor, too rich, too black, too white—to try.” It’s easy to find excuses to resist change, no matter how trivial they may be. But in the end, the only person you’re holding back is yourself.

• “That’s too much money. I’d rather buy toys or pay the rent.” Yes, it costs ($880+ in Australia), but ask yourself: What is your future worth? Many men who attend the New Warrior Training Adventure gain greater success and fulfilment. While it requires investment—both money and commitment—most find it worth every cent. For context, even men who volunteer to staff pay around $250. MKP is a not-for-profit, and nearly everyone involved is a volunteer.

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• “Can’t I just read a book or article to get the same results?” The answer is no. This training isn’t just about absorbing ideas—it’s a transformative learning experience. To truly benefit, you’ll need to show up fully, bringing not only your mind but also your energy, passion, and spirit.

• “I’ll get to that someday—maybe next year, or even the next millennium. I’m just not ready yet. I need to… (insert convincing excuse here).” One of the most frequent reflections men share after completing the training is, “What have I been doing for the last twenty years?” So, when is the best time to embark on this transformative adventure? The answer is simple: right now.

• “I’m in therapy, so I don’t need this” or “I’m not in therapy, so I’m not ready for this.” Neither are true. The NWTA is a peer-support environment, not therapy, but it requires emotional stability and a willingness to change self-defeating patterns. We recommend men in therapy consult their therapist before registering, and those in recovery programs have at least 6 months clean and sober. NWTA can complement therapy but isn’t a substitute. Get the help you need, and we’ll be here when you’re ready.

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• “Is this a pyramid scheme where people get rich?” No. The Mankind Project is a non-profit. Most staff volunteer their time and energy, and while training leaders are paid, it’s not much. Any enrichment is personal, not financial.

• “I know how these workshops go: a little insight, some bonding, then life goes back to normal. What did I really get out of it?” That might be true if the workshop was all there was. The heart of the Mankind Project is our Men’s Groups (i-Groups), meeting across Australia and online. These weekly or fortnightly groups help men integrate their learnings and offer ongoing support to thrive.

• “This is a bunch of navel-gazing men who gain insight, then go back to harming the planet and their families without real change.” In contrast, MKP emphasizes action and service—whether it’s supporting kids, creating compassionate workplaces, protecting the planet, working in prisons, or simply being present with family.

• “This sounds like some kind of religious cult. I already have my own faith, thanks.” Or perhaps, “I can’t stand religion, so this isn’t for me.” In reality, men from all walks of faith, including Jesuits, Orthodox Jews, Muslims, and Protestant Christians, are active participants in MKP. Additionally, many who identify as non-religious are equally involved.