ESM Connects. Across Borders.
We're bringing the Emotion-Based Self-Competence Method to the world – through international projects, cultural partnerships, and cross-border collaboration.
The vision
Emotional Self-Competence Knows No Borders.
ESM is based on universal human experiences: the five elements of self-competence and the Love-Fear polarity. These principles are valid across cultures – whether in Germany, the Czech Republic, Oman, or elsewhere in the world.
ESM Connect is our bridge to make the method internationally accessible – not through export, but through genuine partnerships. We work with people on the ground who understand and share ESM in their cultural context.
Our Approach
- Learning from each other instead of a didactic approach to personal development. Scientifically sound, practically applicable, and sustainably effective.
- Cultural adaptation instead of mere translation
- Local partners instead of central control
- Joint projects instead of unilateral expansion
ESM Connect is in development. We're currently working on several projects in Germany, the Czech Republic, and Oman – each with its own focus, all with the shared goal of making ESM accessible.
Project 1:
Germany & Czech Republic
Path of Self-Competence
Cross-Border Adventure Trail
Region:
Bavaria (Germany) & Franzensbad (Czech Republic)
Partners:
- Municipality of Franzensbad (CZ)
- Hof University of Applied Sciences (DE)
- Additional partners in Bavaria (in planning)
Concept:
A publicly accessible outdoor path that makes the five self-competence elements experiential. Visitors walk through stations where they can learn about and directly apply ESM through QR code-based content (bilingual: DE/CZ).
Goal:
- Make ESM accessible to the general public
- Foster cross-border cooperation
- Combine tourism innovation with personal development
- Enable scientific accompanying research
Status:
German partners secured, funding application in preparation
Special Feature:
This is an Interreg project (EU funding for cross-border cooperation) and demonstrates how ESM can function as a culture-connecting method.
Project 2:
Germany – Indoor Installation "Love & Fear"
Experiential Space for Emotional Polarity
Region:
Bavaria (seeking partners)
Concept:
An indoor space that makes the Love-Fear polarity sensually experiential. Visitors walk through two contrasting areas – one conveying Love (opening, connection, growth) and one making Fear (contraction, protection, avoidance) tangible.
Goal:
- Directly experience emotional basic systems
- Teaching material for ESM trainings
- Public awareness and visibility
- Research opportunities
Status:
Concept developed, seeking partners in Bavaria (municipality, museum, educational institution)
Project 3:
Oman – Cultural Bridge Projects
ESM in the Arab World
Region:
Oman (Focus Muscat)
Partner:
Local expert with excellent network on the ground
Concept:
ESM is being introduced in the Omani context – initially through lectures, workshops, and personal networking. The method is culturally adapted and established in collaboration with local coaching associations and educational institutions.
Steps Taken:
- Online presentation at Omani Women Day (20 minutes on emotions)
- ESM principles presented in culturally adapted form
- Network building with Omani professionals
Next Steps:
- Further lectures and workshops (in-person + online)
- Pilot training in English with small group
- Build cooperation with Omani coaching associations
Long-term Vision:
- Position ESM as "Western method with cultural relevance"
- B2B cooperations with companies and institutions
- Arabic-language training (Phase 2)
- Bridge to entire Gulf region
Special Feature:
This project shows that ESM works across cultural and religious boundaries – the Love-Fear polarity and self-competence elements are universal.
More than marketing – genuine cultural work
Three Pillars
1. ESM Learns from the World Each project teaches us how ESM functions in different cultural contexts. This makes the method better, more nuanced, more universal.
2. Local Partnerships Create Sustainability We don't "export" ESM – we empower local partners to share the method in their context. This is more sustainable than any central control.
3. Public Impact Across Borders Projects like the "Path of Self-Competence" or the Love-Fear installation create awareness far beyond therapeutic or coaching circles.
Want to Bring ESM to Your Region?
ESM Connect seeks people and organizations who want to establish ESM in their country or region. We work with various partners:
Who We're Open To:
Coaching Associations & Professional Organizations Want to include ESM as a certified method in your portfolio? We offer train-the-trainer programs and licenses.
Universities & Research Institutions Want to scientifically study ESM or use it in teaching? We seek research collaborations worldwide.
Educational Institutions & Organizations Planning projects in emotional education or prevention? ESM can be a structured component.
Cultural Projects & Public Institutions Want to make ESM publicly experiential (like the Path of Self-Competence)? We support creative approaches.
Companies & Organizations Seeking a scientifically grounded approach for emotional competence in your organization? Let's discuss customized solutions.
As a Partner of ESM Connect, You Receive:
Five Benefits
📚 Complete Method Access to all ESM materials, interventions, and training content. You get not just a translation, but the complete method.
🎓 Train-the-Trainer We train you or your team so you can independently share ESM. No dependency, but genuine empowerment.
🌍 Cultural Adaptation Together we develop how ESM functions in your cultural context. You're the expert for your region.
🔬 Scientific Support If you want to research ESM, we support you with methodology, study materials, and co-publications.
🤝International Network You become part of a growing international ESM community. Exchange, best practices, mutual support.
The Right Partners for ESM
We don't work with everyone. ESM Connect seeks partners who:
✅ Truly want to understand ESM – not just use it superficially
✅ Bring cultural sensitivity – ESM must make sense in the local context
✅ Think long-term – no quick wins, but sustainable development
✅ Value scientific grounding – ESM is not esoteric
✅ Act ethically – ESM serves people, not just profit
If that fits you: Let's talk.
Whether you have a concrete project in mind or just want to express initial interest in ESM Connect – we look forward to connecting with you.
Here's How It Works:
Joint Development If it fits, we jointly develop a project or partnership
Initial Contact Write us an email with a brief introduction of your idea or organization
Getting Acquainted: We have a non-binding conversation (Zoom, 30-60 min)
What We Need in Advance:
- Your region or country
- Your organization or background
- Rough idea of what you plan with ESM
- Why ESM is relevant for your context