After reading an article on LinkedIn, I started thinking about the concept of being professional. I have had several teachers come into my world who have such great knowledge and a strong passion. They taught me a lot and fed my passion. This step to become truly professional, though, has been tough. The business aspects of […]

Way back when I stared teaching…26 years ago…I decided that I didn’t like screen printed doboks (Korean for training uniform). The logos would fade and, while it was kind of cool to think of it as a representation of your hard work, I wanted my logo to be more important. Something that wouldn’t fade or […]

Last week I commented on there not being an “Off” season when it come to martial arts training. This needs to be considered in regards to being continually vigilant and prepared to protect yourself  and others. This can seem like a tough duty…and it is. Those who truly are preparing themselves for this role don’t […]

Unlike sports, true martial artists don’t have an off-season. This can cause many frustrations. Training for life isn’t a game. It takes more dedication and commitment. The effort needed to ensure that safety of your life and your family is a 24/7/365 thing. Now, I’m not trying to make anyone anxious or paranoid. This is […]

The following is from LEADER DEVELOPMENT course from the Maneuver Self Study Program by the U.S. Army – Why is the study of leader development important? Do not assume that you already “know” what leader development is. To paraphrase numerous articles and books on developmental systems, three things must be present for a developmental system […]

“I am fortunate to take one philosophy student a year and have them assist in an intro class after they have gone through our curriculum. Eye opening, always. The class is not a thing you do, it’s an environment of possibilities.” – Timothy Stock, Philosophy Professor. What struck me most was the last sentence. He […]

“When you embark on something,” Musashi wrote, “before you start, fix your intention on the Four Oaths and put selfishness behind you. Then you cannot fail.” The Four Oaths: Never be late with respect to the Way of the warrior. It has been quoted that the martial arts begin and end with respect. The warrior […]

Have you ever told yourself or another something like “That was good enough.” How about all of the kids sports that don’t have winners any more? Maybe all of the activities and events where everyone gets an award? Have you ever thought that we were letting them off the hook for not becoming excellent? We […]