Over the past few years I have the privilege of meeting and working with literally hundreds of school owners throughout the U.S., Canada, Spain, Germany, the UK, Nepal and Australia. I’d like to think that I’ve helped out along the way…but I know beyond a doubt, that I have been helped out along the way. I have learned so much from so many people. It continues to be an amazing education. Some of my take aways are:
- There are lots of ways to be successful in the Martial Arts industry.
- When it comes to teaching skills, today’s instructor is light years ahead of yesterday’s.
- It is a great profession to be in if you are willing to work smart and hard.
- If you aren’t working smart and hard, you won’t be in business too long.
- If you don’t know what you are doing, you won’t be in business too long.
- As a generality, most martial artists are more open minded towards other styles and systems than they used to be.
- There doesn’t seem to be any correlation between martial arts style and the success of your school.
And…here is a bit of unsolicited advice to all of the Professional Martial Arts Instructors out there.
- Forget about what the school down the street is doing. There is not a lot you will be able to do about it except waste your energy. Just hope that he/she has a good program. No one benefits from a poorly run school.
- Try to be the best example that you can be. YOU represent the martial arts to your circle of influence.
- Share freely what you know with other martial arts professionals. Everyone benefits from an idea exchange.
- Never forget the impact that you can have on your students and your community through a well run program. Try to be a positive force in the lives of others.
- Don’t spend too much time talking about how great it was “Back in the day” because honestly, it probably wasn’t as great as you remember. Time has a way of warping our memory. Instead try to cultivate the belief that your best years are still ahead of you.
