The path of a martial arts instructor, if you are not careful, can become a somewhat lonely one, here are some considerations –
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- Stay active yourself
Many instructors substitute training time for teaching, it is inevitable to a degree what with super busy lifestyles but in my opinion a fit, healthy instructor is a sharp instructor on the mats, so stay on top form, practice and set a good example to your students
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- Have an instructor / senior – be answerable & be challenged
For me I enjoy reading, researching and understanding so have always been very self motivated but having at least one senior instructor in your chosen art, allows you to continually be a student, maintains learning & progression and should of course keep us humble and our potential ego in check … who is your instructor?
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- Aim to grade on time every time
Agree or disagree on this point, it is more so that I believe everyone should have a target or goal and actively be training towards it, with suitable guidance standards will remain high.
There are of course many other methods to ensure you continue moving forwards – competitions, cross training, fitness goals as an example – a big one of mine in 2015 was to run a sub 20 minute 5k – not martial arts I know but a way challenging me both physically and mentally, incidentally after 5 months I smashed it!
If you follow me on Instagram you may have seen one of my posts –
‘ It is about knowledge and skill enhancement not belt advancement … recognition and certifications are great and will come but the true value is in your growth and personal progression, train read and research everyday … love life & live with passion’
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- Knowledge is key but execution is everything
Read, research, train and ask your own questions as don’t forget you are on your own martial arts journey too, you may be just a little further in front of your students
‘A master has failed more times than a beginner has tried’
On the issue of knowledge and grade, when you get to black belt everyone starts to catch each other up as time lines lengthen, so make it your business to ensure your skill level, understanding of the art and depth of knowledge is as broad as possible.
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- Network with others
I am a firm believer that you become who you surround yourself with so make sure you are around positive, successful people who have achieved or are achieving more than you or even what you are aiming to do
‘You are only as strong as the people you stand with’
On the turn side, be mindful of negative people and attitudes that can drain the soul. Be aware of ego’s as there are a few in the martial arts 😉 keep yours in check as like acid, it corrodes the vessel that contains it.
It is important to remember that everyone loses focus from time to time, even instructors, that is fine but don’t make excuses, regroup set a new focus and target and push to achieve it!
I find the biggest excuse I hear from instructors is that they don’t have ‘time’ … my reply is – personal discipline. Prioritise your activities, schedule plan your days or weeks so that it is achievable and sustainable and enjoy the benefits of the routine … yes easier said than done but
‘Motivation starts you, discipline, routine and focus keeps you going’
- Business Man Vs Martial Artists
Be careful there is not too much emphasis on business, marketing, paperwork, filling classes up … where possible think back to the time you started, hit the gym, workout, run your patterns or kata, have a stretch as for me there is no therapy like ‘mat-time’ therapy
Train smart & train hard!
Respect as always
Master John Swift