A True Martial Artist

   In all sports played at the highest level, there is one character, which distinguishes all successful teams and individuals – they are mentally tough or strong.  Martial arts is no exception.  You only need to talk to a true martial artist to find they give testimony to the reality of mental toughness every time they train.

   The martial artist consistently exemplifies this special kind of inner strength that goes well beyond the limits of their natural physical talent and skill.  It is the thin line that separates the few who make it from the thousands who do not.  “RAW TALENT” is not enough for a traditional martial artist.

What characteristic makes a really tough martial artist?

1.   They are one who does not need to be pushed, pleaded with or forced to train.  Their direction and motivation comes from within.  They train because they understand they have to put in before they take out.  They train to give themselves the best possible chance of achieving success.  A martial artist is not there because Mom or Dad wants them there, they are there because THEY want to be there.

2.    A true martial artist has a will to succeed which is often beyond the comprehension of those who do not share the same vision.  Setbacks are taken in their stride as they work their way further forward.  They have the attitude of attacking setbacks in a positive manner, for they understand setbacks are only temporary if you wish them to be.

3.   A true martial artist rarely falls victim to their own or others self-defeating thoughts and ideas.  They are not intimidated by setbacks due to their self-being.

4.    True martial artists take full responsibility for their own actions and efforts.  This is the most important and most easily identified characteristic of all mentally tough people.  They make no excuses, they did or they did not.  Ultimately, everything begins and ends with them.  More importantly, they are comfortable with that.  The martial artist is fully aware that while their own art can supply a support system around them, their own destiny as a martial artist is in their own hands.

As an instructor it is my responsibility to identify and develop the above characteristics in students.  Why will that occur with an uncompromising passion?  Because, without the development of students, there is no martial arts.