(Approx 1 minute 44 second read)

Many people, at some point in their lives, have been victimized, exploited, or bullied in some form or another.
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Whether this relates to being bullied as a child, an adult being singled out at the workplace, bullying online, or in more serious cases, an individual being mugged on the street, a barrage of negativity ensues. These unfortunate scenarios share a common thread – the feeling of powerlessness.
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Newcomers to the martial arts might see training solely as a means to fight back. However, the true value goes far beyond physical confrontation.
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Training builds not only strength and endurance, but also focus, confidence, and most importantly, respect for yourself and others.
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Yet, there’s another crucial element: humility.
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The martial arts aren’t just about how to fight, but also about when not to. And superficial training can breed complacency and an inflated sense of self-belief.
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Discipline is a core principle no matter what martial art you follow, and if a physical confrontation is avoidable, it teaches you the self-confidence to walk away from a situation, to firmly say “no”.
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As you train, confidence naturally blossoms. But remember, confidence isn’t the same as skill. Overconfidence can blind you to your weaknesses, hindering improvement. Let’s face it, no one enjoys encountering someone delusional about their abilities.
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And we all know how delusional some people can be. There are endless comments – no, drivel – about karate can’t do this, and karate can’t do that. Throws in karate are taken from Judo, locks from Jiu-Jitsu, groundwork from BJJ, MMA is the only thing that works… the arguments are endless. Come on people, use the stuff between your ears!
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Humility, a virtue we should all practice, keeps you open to learning. An individual who lacks humility is unlikely to go very far.
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Confidence and humility aren’t rivals; they complement each other. Confidence empowers you to face challenges and believe in yourself. It gives you the courage to enter the dojo, push through grueling sessions, and apply your skills in competition or in real-world situations.
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Humility, on the other hand, keeps you grounded. It reminds you there’s always more to learn, that every opponent offers a lesson, and that proficiency is a lifelong pursuit.
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So, remember to cultivate both confidence and humility. Embrace every lesson, big or small, and recognize that true greatness lies in this balance.
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Humility, confidence, skill – they are developed in succession. It is okay to be confident, but always remember to be humble. Skill is a by-product of both.
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Photo Credit: Teruo Hayashi 10th dan (1924-2004) Hayashi-ha Shito-Ryu