(Approx 1 minute 36 second read)

We all know that the role of a good instructor is pivotal to learning and understanding. A skilled karate instructor goes beyond simply demonstrating techniques for the next grading.
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As an instructor, a teacher, true proficiency lies in keenly observing and understanding each student’s unique path.
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Unfortunately, some instructors resort to barking orders across the dojo floor without truly grasping what their students are experiencing. This often stems from a lack of intentional observation.
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Every moment a student spends training, practicing, or competing, is a golden opportunity for you, the instructor, to observe, evaluate, and provide constructive feedback. By honing your skills as a watcher and listener, you’ll gain a wealth of information about your students’ progress and needs.
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Great instructors observe beyond the physical movements and techniques. They decipher a student’s excuses and emotional roadblocks, recognizing any underlying problems.
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However, patience is key. A good instructor won’t immediately reveal everything they see. Instead, they listen to the excuses and distractions, perhaps with a wry smile, and offer guidance only when the moment is right.
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Ultimately, a student’s journey rests on their own shoulders. They must put in the effort, navigate challenges, and manage their emotions. An instructor’s role is to wait for the opportune moment to offer insights gleaned from observation. But make no mistake, a skilled instructor observes everything.
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I know several lower-grade black-belt instructors whose teaching style relies heavily on barking orders across the dojo floor. It seems they might not have a clear understanding of what they’re looking for in their students’ performance and development, or their own.
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The best teachers, instructors, and leaders are often those with the keenest observational skills. Watching and listening intently are crucial. Karate demands a perspective based on coherent principles that unify the body and mind. Viewing karate as a collection of disconnected techniques is a mistake, and observing how your students grasp these connections is essential.
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Don’t be the instructor who misses crucial details. Observe everything that matters.
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Observation is all about intentionality. If something is important, actively seek it out and observe it. By intentionally watching and listening, you can unlock your students’ full potential.
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So, make a commitment to becoming a more observant instructor, and witness the transformation it brings to your students and to your dojo.
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Photo Credit: Kofukan Switzerland