One thing I think teachers of all kinds would agree, is that passionate teachers begat passionate students often... but passionate students begat passionate teachers always.
I absolutely, positively love a room full of enthusiastic, happy students all hitting things to the same beat, or just training passionately on their own.
Its so fulfilling to see the joy in their eyes and postures in relation to the lesson. Very fulfilling, and it really makes me proud to see them grow in such a way.
Today was a good day. Its the beginning of a long weekend, so, it was entirely possible that attendance would be down.
Quite the opposite! The noon class and evening classes were packed!
And class was really fun. Neat combo, with bonus time spent on some sparring. Great workout, all smiles :)
Sensei Ono, Shinka Martial Arts.
About The
- Author
- Sensei Ono, founder of Shinka Martial Arts, is a teacher and student of life. His passion for helping others and self improvement is the purpose behind this blog. -- "If your purpose in any way includes making the world a better place, I urge to you read, and share the knowledge."
Friday, July 30, 2010
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Helping on a a new scale
I'm very excited about publishing the hardcover of the key to awesome. There's something wonderful about the unlimited possibilities a book can provide.
I can only teach classes so big, and only so much in an hour. Having the unlimited potential of a book is humbling. It really makes me take a look at the information inside with great care.
The eBook is good... but this print version is great.
I can only teach classes so big, and only so much in an hour. Having the unlimited potential of a book is humbling. It really makes me take a look at the information inside with great care.
The eBook is good... but this print version is great.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Beware the ego of helping others
Its an interesting thing, helping people. Like giving a gift, one could argue that - as it feels great to give, you are, in effect, getting more out of the deal than the person you're helping.
(Personally, I think it doesn't really matter who is "getting more" as long as you're helping people)
When it comes to helping people as a piece of your identity, however, I issue a caution.
I'm constantly growing in my own abilities as a teacher, and, one area I really need to focus on - is stepping back and helping less.
"What?" you might say? "How is that better?"
Its something I'm coming to terms with myself, actually.
Being a teacher, to me, meant constantly looking to improve those around me, and, as a result, the world on a whole. In essence, being the change I want to see, but also attempting to coach others into doing the same.
I've found that, in the short run, this works wonderfully. But, in the long run, it tends to feel more and more like nitpicking, nagging, and judgement. Also, the more grandiose your mission, the more justification one can easily make. The classic "would you kill an innocent child to solve world hunger" argument. If you feel you are on your "holy mission", it is easy to become cold and calculating if people don't "get in line" with your vision.
Its strange, but the phrase "the road to hell is littered with good intentions" finally makes sense to me. I never really agreed with that before - I figured that there was no such thing as evil power, only evil intent.
But who IS right in that situation? The innocent child for the end of world hunger is, of course, fairly abstract, but... who IS right? What if you magnified it completely to "one innocent child for the entire human race"? At what point do the ends justify the means?
Anyway, coming off as judgmental or nitpicking has never been my intention - my goal has always been to help those around me... but, in many past relationships, and, with some students, I feel that eventually, people begin to see it as an ego trip.
And, after looking at my performance last night, maybe they were right.
My fiancé has mentioned it to me, that she feels that when I say things like "well, what I would do, is" it is very egotistical.
From my perspective, it is more a sharing of life experience, or opinion - but I understand her take on it, as well. (personally, I like it when instructors teach me in this fashion, as, if I respect them in a particular field, and they told me what THEY would do in that area... naturally I respect the advice more -- if you read TK2A's chapter on finding and evaluating mentors, you'll kinda get what I mean on that one)
This all came to my attention when I realized the grievous error I'd made when negotiating our condo deal. I wasn't negotiating for the best win/win deal, as I usually do - ... I was negotiating to show off. To show Renee just what I could do, and teach her in the process.
I wasn't trying to help - though I thought I was at the time - I was trying to shine in the spotlight.
Friggin' ego. You hide so well under the veils of skills and help.
It made me take a look at my martial arts teaching, as well.
Am I too critical of my students? Expecting that they succeed? Are high expectations a bad thing? Should I take the approach of other martial arts schools and simply McDojo them their black belts regardless of skill?
Or, is there a middle ground? One where I keep the same high standards, but teach in a different way?
Do people appreciate my help, or resent it? Do they just want to train and be left alone, or do they wish I added more input?
Do people wish I taught more generally, or, do they appreciate that I take the time to ponder their individual growth?
(Personally, I think it doesn't really matter who is "getting more" as long as you're helping people)
When it comes to helping people as a piece of your identity, however, I issue a caution.
I'm constantly growing in my own abilities as a teacher, and, one area I really need to focus on - is stepping back and helping less.
"What?" you might say? "How is that better?"
Its something I'm coming to terms with myself, actually.
Being a teacher, to me, meant constantly looking to improve those around me, and, as a result, the world on a whole. In essence, being the change I want to see, but also attempting to coach others into doing the same.
I've found that, in the short run, this works wonderfully. But, in the long run, it tends to feel more and more like nitpicking, nagging, and judgement. Also, the more grandiose your mission, the more justification one can easily make. The classic "would you kill an innocent child to solve world hunger" argument. If you feel you are on your "holy mission", it is easy to become cold and calculating if people don't "get in line" with your vision.
Its strange, but the phrase "the road to hell is littered with good intentions" finally makes sense to me. I never really agreed with that before - I figured that there was no such thing as evil power, only evil intent.
But who IS right in that situation? The innocent child for the end of world hunger is, of course, fairly abstract, but... who IS right? What if you magnified it completely to "one innocent child for the entire human race"? At what point do the ends justify the means?
Anyway, coming off as judgmental or nitpicking has never been my intention - my goal has always been to help those around me... but, in many past relationships, and, with some students, I feel that eventually, people begin to see it as an ego trip.
And, after looking at my performance last night, maybe they were right.
My fiancé has mentioned it to me, that she feels that when I say things like "well, what I would do, is" it is very egotistical.
From my perspective, it is more a sharing of life experience, or opinion - but I understand her take on it, as well. (personally, I like it when instructors teach me in this fashion, as, if I respect them in a particular field, and they told me what THEY would do in that area... naturally I respect the advice more -- if you read TK2A's chapter on finding and evaluating mentors, you'll kinda get what I mean on that one)
This all came to my attention when I realized the grievous error I'd made when negotiating our condo deal. I wasn't negotiating for the best win/win deal, as I usually do - ... I was negotiating to show off. To show Renee just what I could do, and teach her in the process.
I wasn't trying to help - though I thought I was at the time - I was trying to shine in the spotlight.
Friggin' ego. You hide so well under the veils of skills and help.
It made me take a look at my martial arts teaching, as well.
Am I too critical of my students? Expecting that they succeed? Are high expectations a bad thing? Should I take the approach of other martial arts schools and simply McDojo them their black belts regardless of skill?
Or, is there a middle ground? One where I keep the same high standards, but teach in a different way?
Do people appreciate my help, or resent it? Do they just want to train and be left alone, or do they wish I added more input?
Do people wish I taught more generally, or, do they appreciate that I take the time to ponder their individual growth?
Friday, July 16, 2010
The power of the Sun
Its interesting, how the Sun can give, and take energy based on the mindset of people who perceive it.
On the one hand, some are energized - yay, its sunny! Its so warm! tra la la! Others, are stooped over, complaining - Oh its so hot, bla bla blah.
Some people get happier when the sun comes out, others get angry and frustrated.
I think that heat's impact is similar to snow, and has a lot to do with stress. For example, snow is pretty, but not if you are late, and have to drive in it. Sun is amazing, unless you're late, stuck in rush hour traffic, and you're all sticky.
But see, that's the thing - at some point, you WOULD appreciate the sun, so why not make some day, now-day?
Why not appreciate the sun when you're in rush hour traffic?
Anyhoo.
On the one hand, some are energized - yay, its sunny! Its so warm! tra la la! Others, are stooped over, complaining - Oh its so hot, bla bla blah.
Some people get happier when the sun comes out, others get angry and frustrated.
I think that heat's impact is similar to snow, and has a lot to do with stress. For example, snow is pretty, but not if you are late, and have to drive in it. Sun is amazing, unless you're late, stuck in rush hour traffic, and you're all sticky.
But see, that's the thing - at some point, you WOULD appreciate the sun, so why not make some day, now-day?
Why not appreciate the sun when you're in rush hour traffic?
Anyhoo.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Future, Present & Past oriented mindset
Check this out. Very cool.
One thing that stood out in particular was the teaching methods of future oriented people (such as myself) and how they may not affect those with present oriented mindsets.
Hmmm...
One thing that stood out in particular was the teaching methods of future oriented people (such as myself) and how they may not affect those with present oriented mindsets.
Hmmm...
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
The power of reviewing
Often times, on a day that we're more focused on learning new information, we'll do a short meditation after class, to enhance the retention.
There are days where I run out of time, but, whenever we do the meditation, its always very impressive how much the students retain.
Imagine where else in life this could be utilized...
There are days where I run out of time, but, whenever we do the meditation, its always very impressive how much the students retain.
Imagine where else in life this could be utilized...
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Random Quote
"Adults are always asking children what they want to be when they grow up to look for ideas."
- Four hour work week
(fantastic book)
- Four hour work week
(fantastic book)
Monday, July 12, 2010
Pleasing Everybody
As the old saying goes - when you attempt to please everyone, you end up pleasing juuuust abooout no-one.
And, a similar lesson with a different slant, if you see a beautiful masterpiece with a fingerprint on it, what's more important? The beauty and skill... or the imperfection?
What do we focus on in life? The majority of positive feedback, or the minority of negative?
My goodness, is it difficult to focus on the majority of positive, isn't it?
I mean, we've got everyone under the sun telling us we're awesome... and then bam. One person says you suck and nobody likes you -- and there you go, back to that dark, insecure place inside yourself who never really believed you were all that great to begin with.
Teaching in a martial arts school has been a beautiful microcosm for seeing how people deal with the world.
Do we take a tiny piece of negative and blow it out of proportion? Or, do we instead take the lesson, and do our best to learn from it? How long do we stay on the angry/negative slant before snapping ourselves out of it?
I had a student provide some feedback today, that said my classes felt "too planned." And, immediately, I began questioning myself. "Are all the students unhappy? Do people hate the classes?" a million questions go through my head in an instant. I take a deep breath, and let myself calm down. (I'm getting better at this sort of thing, but I still have a path or two to walk)
Take it as a lesson, and evaluate it.
My mind flashes back to the past weeks which have been filled with praise at the amount of time and effort I put into designing my classes - how I must spend hours thinking about what the students need/want and the best, most fun ways to provide it to them. (I do, actually. I love it)
I think about the smiles everyone wears at the end of class and then return to the feedback and look at it in a much calmer way.
Okay... so, why would the student say that? What would the down side be of a well planned class?
I ponder that for a bit, and come up with a few weak answers, and then... Perhaps they feel that they aren't getting enough personal attention? That the classes are some form of cookie cutter and not custom fit to the students within the proverbial dough?
Plausible. Familiarity is one of the quickest things to staunch our perceptions of outstanding events and people. Its entirely possible that the student simply takes for granted some form of the classes, and their presentation. Grass is greener, and all that.
I think back farther, and come up with a few contradictory memories about when the same student once praised me for that which they were now scorning. I probe deeper and do my best to stay positive and inquisitive.
How could I improve as a result of this feedback? Be less predictable? More variety of class-type? More student input? More insight into how the classes are tailor fit to the students?
Hm... how to "show your work" in regards to that? Do they KNOW that the past classes they felt were too basic were, in fact, targeted towards them in an effort to help them progress? Likely not. Likely they believe they're ready to advance to a new belt altogether. How best to impart that lesson?
Better still, how best to prevent this situation from happening again, both with them, and others? Is there a way to maybe... I don't know... let a student know before class that this one in particular is meant for them, or, a the very least, for what they need to be working on?
I begin brainstorming and search for answers.
Problems suck, but finding solutions is fun. Its all in the focus.
(Like I said, I'm getting better at this stuff - it takes practice.)
One thing I will say is:
Creativity is best harnessed for solutions. If you sick it on the negative, my goodness will you get angry and defensive quickly.
Nip it in the bud, focus on the lesson and the solution.
___
I intended Shinka to be an amazing place for my student's evolution. Who knew that it held so many lessons for its teacher, as well?
Sensei Ono, Shinka Martial Arts
And, a similar lesson with a different slant, if you see a beautiful masterpiece with a fingerprint on it, what's more important? The beauty and skill... or the imperfection?
What do we focus on in life? The majority of positive feedback, or the minority of negative?
My goodness, is it difficult to focus on the majority of positive, isn't it?
I mean, we've got everyone under the sun telling us we're awesome... and then bam. One person says you suck and nobody likes you -- and there you go, back to that dark, insecure place inside yourself who never really believed you were all that great to begin with.
Teaching in a martial arts school has been a beautiful microcosm for seeing how people deal with the world.
Do we take a tiny piece of negative and blow it out of proportion? Or, do we instead take the lesson, and do our best to learn from it? How long do we stay on the angry/negative slant before snapping ourselves out of it?
I had a student provide some feedback today, that said my classes felt "too planned." And, immediately, I began questioning myself. "Are all the students unhappy? Do people hate the classes?" a million questions go through my head in an instant. I take a deep breath, and let myself calm down. (I'm getting better at this sort of thing, but I still have a path or two to walk)
Take it as a lesson, and evaluate it.
My mind flashes back to the past weeks which have been filled with praise at the amount of time and effort I put into designing my classes - how I must spend hours thinking about what the students need/want and the best, most fun ways to provide it to them. (I do, actually. I love it)
I think about the smiles everyone wears at the end of class and then return to the feedback and look at it in a much calmer way.
Okay... so, why would the student say that? What would the down side be of a well planned class?
I ponder that for a bit, and come up with a few weak answers, and then... Perhaps they feel that they aren't getting enough personal attention? That the classes are some form of cookie cutter and not custom fit to the students within the proverbial dough?
Plausible. Familiarity is one of the quickest things to staunch our perceptions of outstanding events and people. Its entirely possible that the student simply takes for granted some form of the classes, and their presentation. Grass is greener, and all that.
I think back farther, and come up with a few contradictory memories about when the same student once praised me for that which they were now scorning. I probe deeper and do my best to stay positive and inquisitive.
How could I improve as a result of this feedback? Be less predictable? More variety of class-type? More student input? More insight into how the classes are tailor fit to the students?
Hm... how to "show your work" in regards to that? Do they KNOW that the past classes they felt were too basic were, in fact, targeted towards them in an effort to help them progress? Likely not. Likely they believe they're ready to advance to a new belt altogether. How best to impart that lesson?
Better still, how best to prevent this situation from happening again, both with them, and others? Is there a way to maybe... I don't know... let a student know before class that this one in particular is meant for them, or, a the very least, for what they need to be working on?
I begin brainstorming and search for answers.
Problems suck, but finding solutions is fun. Its all in the focus.
(Like I said, I'm getting better at this stuff - it takes practice.)
One thing I will say is:
Creativity is best harnessed for solutions. If you sick it on the negative, my goodness will you get angry and defensive quickly.
Nip it in the bud, focus on the lesson and the solution.
___
I intended Shinka to be an amazing place for my student's evolution. Who knew that it held so many lessons for its teacher, as well?
Sensei Ono, Shinka Martial Arts
Sunday, July 11, 2010
What's Wrong With The Pursuit of Happiness
The definition of "pursuit" is "to chase with malicious intent"
Do we angrily chase our own happiness?
Interesting concept, to create a place for happiness to grow, verses chasing after it, don't you think?
Also, "if the only tool you have is a hammer, everything starts looking like a nail" - great quote. (Maslow)
Sensei Ono, Shinka Martial Arts
Do we angrily chase our own happiness?
Interesting concept, to create a place for happiness to grow, verses chasing after it, don't you think?
Also, "if the only tool you have is a hammer, everything starts looking like a nail" - great quote. (Maslow)
Sensei Ono, Shinka Martial Arts
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Clarity
LIFE CLARITY
The importance of clarity in your life - that is, which direction you are most hoping for, is not only important; I believe it is essential.
When you are truly clear of what it is that you want, the universe seems to do its absolute best to get you there. When you are really sure about a lot of different things - I think maybe it gets confused.
Perhaps what the world must practice is focusing on one desired outcome, and allowing all that happens along the way to be recognized as a stepping stone towards it.
YEAR CLARITY
While life clarity is great - I think year clarity is something that many of us attempt to do, but very poorly. New years resolutions are great and all, but often lack quantification, benchmarks or any forms of checks & balances. Essentially, they are vague statements with no recourse in either direction, and no inherent methodology intended to sustain any sort of momentum towards their outcome.
New years resolutions are great - but I would say to take a new years resolution and, at the very minimum, divide it into 12 quantifiable mini-goals/benchmarks. Ideally, more. (52 is a nice number)
MONTH CLARITY
"Just to get through it" isn't enough. That's the life of someone who wanted to get to something but never got around to it.
If planning this month is too much work - then use this month to plan next month and get started that way. Having outcomes for the month can be extremely helpful in focusing your efforts.
What's really important in your life? What deserves your focus & attention the most? (and how is it important in comparison to the year/life goals?)
WEEK CLARITY
Often times our lives, and our huge goals can seem somewhat overwhelming, or, at the very least, abstract despite our quantification efforts.
Weeks, on the other hand, if planned out, can be thousands of percent more efficient and more fun. Take the time to plan out your week - everything doesn't have to go exactly to plan, but, you'll know exactly how much time to spend where, and how (and perhaps most importantly... why)
DAY CLARITY
This is a simple one. Just ask yourself in the morning a few great questions. What am I most excited about today? What are my top 3 desired outcomes for the day?
If you want to write them down you can - although sometimes this simple reminder tool can help focus us on our longer term visions.
Go forth and do great things my students. And define what they are, and how to get there :)
Sensei Ono, Shinka Martial Arts
The importance of clarity in your life - that is, which direction you are most hoping for, is not only important; I believe it is essential.
When you are truly clear of what it is that you want, the universe seems to do its absolute best to get you there. When you are really sure about a lot of different things - I think maybe it gets confused.
Perhaps what the world must practice is focusing on one desired outcome, and allowing all that happens along the way to be recognized as a stepping stone towards it.
YEAR CLARITY
While life clarity is great - I think year clarity is something that many of us attempt to do, but very poorly. New years resolutions are great and all, but often lack quantification, benchmarks or any forms of checks & balances. Essentially, they are vague statements with no recourse in either direction, and no inherent methodology intended to sustain any sort of momentum towards their outcome.
New years resolutions are great - but I would say to take a new years resolution and, at the very minimum, divide it into 12 quantifiable mini-goals/benchmarks. Ideally, more. (52 is a nice number)
MONTH CLARITY
"Just to get through it" isn't enough. That's the life of someone who wanted to get to something but never got around to it.
If planning this month is too much work - then use this month to plan next month and get started that way. Having outcomes for the month can be extremely helpful in focusing your efforts.
What's really important in your life? What deserves your focus & attention the most? (and how is it important in comparison to the year/life goals?)
WEEK CLARITY
Often times our lives, and our huge goals can seem somewhat overwhelming, or, at the very least, abstract despite our quantification efforts.
Weeks, on the other hand, if planned out, can be thousands of percent more efficient and more fun. Take the time to plan out your week - everything doesn't have to go exactly to plan, but, you'll know exactly how much time to spend where, and how (and perhaps most importantly... why)
DAY CLARITY
This is a simple one. Just ask yourself in the morning a few great questions. What am I most excited about today? What are my top 3 desired outcomes for the day?
If you want to write them down you can - although sometimes this simple reminder tool can help focus us on our longer term visions.
Go forth and do great things my students. And define what they are, and how to get there :)
Sensei Ono, Shinka Martial Arts
Friday, July 9, 2010
Facets
There are so many facets to the benefits of martial arts. And a plethora of ways to choose a martial arts school.
That's one of the reasons why its very important for me to find out which specific ones people are coming to Shinka Martial Arts FOR, as well as teach them how to choose a martial arts school.
Ultimately, the more information I have on my student's individual needs and motivations, the better teacher I can be for them, and the better I can help them reach their goals.
I mean, for some, having room to spar in our huge dojo is great. Others care more about the fact that we've won all those awards (Richmond's Best Dojo, Best Martial Arts Instructor, Most Innovative Curriculum, Richmond's Biggest Martial Arts Facility and a few others)
I would say that most of our students might hear about us through the awards, but ultimately, they come for martial arts fitness in Richmond.
Sure, they still get the empowerment through martial arts, and hey, martial arts at Shinka is fun! But yeah, they definitely want their six packs and awesome cardio etc.
Interestingly enough, many people are pleasantly surprised by the brain enhancing techniques we use, as their grades increase through their Shinka training.
Ultimately, sweaty, smiling, smarter is comprised of so many facets, that when people ask "should I take martial arts" I kind of chuckle. I cannot fathom a reason NOT to!
Sure, if you were blind or in a wheelchair, you would need special martial arts classes - but EVERYONE should take martial arts of some kind.
Everyone.
The amount of benefit it gives your life is truly outstanding, and without comparison.
While there are excellent methods of self improvement, such as The Key to Awesome, I would say that ultimately, martial arts is superior in every way.
Sensei Ono, Shinka Martial Arts
That's one of the reasons why its very important for me to find out which specific ones people are coming to Shinka Martial Arts FOR, as well as teach them how to choose a martial arts school.
Ultimately, the more information I have on my student's individual needs and motivations, the better teacher I can be for them, and the better I can help them reach their goals.
I mean, for some, having room to spar in our huge dojo is great. Others care more about the fact that we've won all those awards (Richmond's Best Dojo, Best Martial Arts Instructor, Most Innovative Curriculum, Richmond's Biggest Martial Arts Facility and a few others)
I would say that most of our students might hear about us through the awards, but ultimately, they come for martial arts fitness in Richmond.
Sure, they still get the empowerment through martial arts, and hey, martial arts at Shinka is fun! But yeah, they definitely want their six packs and awesome cardio etc.
Interestingly enough, many people are pleasantly surprised by the brain enhancing techniques we use, as their grades increase through their Shinka training.
Ultimately, sweaty, smiling, smarter is comprised of so many facets, that when people ask "should I take martial arts" I kind of chuckle. I cannot fathom a reason NOT to!
Sure, if you were blind or in a wheelchair, you would need special martial arts classes - but EVERYONE should take martial arts of some kind.
Everyone.
The amount of benefit it gives your life is truly outstanding, and without comparison.
While there are excellent methods of self improvement, such as The Key to Awesome, I would say that ultimately, martial arts is superior in every way.
Sensei Ono, Shinka Martial Arts
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Empowering Youth Financially
I've really been thinking about what an entrepreneurial fellow was saying about parenting. The part that really stuck with me, was the abolishment of allowance, and, instead, the encouragement of finding things that need doing, ascertaining a value, negotiating a price, and sealing the deal.
It got me thinking about how I could foster that type of environment at Shinka, my martial arts school in Richmond.
The first step was, I posted this video on my Shinka Facebook page, in hopes that the kids would watch.
The next step was, getting together those who wanted to take it to the next level, but didn't know how (so I ended the video with "interested in the next step? Ask me!"
Its the third, and ongoing step, that I want to get going, now.
While it would be a good learning tool for them to compete on price, there are other ways to go (adding value, differentiation, convenience etc) and I'd like to encourage those, as well.
Imagine, if you will, a typical Saturday morning, where, after teaching my young kids martial arts class (we call it "cubs") I am bombarded by business proposals from enterprising youth.
"I'll wash your walls!"
"I'll clean your mats!" etc.
On top of that, imagine the negotiation process.
"But my cleaners are organic!"
"but mine are cheaper!"
"but I have a team of people!"
Then, the next phase... they start sub-contracting out the work to each other...
A tiny microcosm of business. Think of the learning...
It got me thinking about how I could foster that type of environment at Shinka, my martial arts school in Richmond.
The first step was, I posted this video on my Shinka Facebook page, in hopes that the kids would watch.
The next step was, getting together those who wanted to take it to the next level, but didn't know how (so I ended the video with "interested in the next step? Ask me!"
Its the third, and ongoing step, that I want to get going, now.
While it would be a good learning tool for them to compete on price, there are other ways to go (adding value, differentiation, convenience etc) and I'd like to encourage those, as well.
Imagine, if you will, a typical Saturday morning, where, after teaching my young kids martial arts class (we call it "cubs") I am bombarded by business proposals from enterprising youth.
"I'll wash your walls!"
"I'll clean your mats!" etc.
On top of that, imagine the negotiation process.
"But my cleaners are organic!"
"but mine are cheaper!"
"but I have a team of people!"
Then, the next phase... they start sub-contracting out the work to each other...
A tiny microcosm of business. Think of the learning...
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Empowering Youth
| I was watching this awesome video, and it really drives home a point that I've been making with the Shinka kids. One of our goals at Shinka, is to have a student be financially free before they graduate high school. Its a cool goal to have, and, to actualize it, we need to empower our kids. Only then, will we unlock their hidden abilities. One person's comment, in particular (on the youtube video) really stood out to me. |
And that's it. That is exactly... it!
The people learning the financial skills in this world are dis-proportionally evil. The cigarette companies etc.
What we do at Shinka, is we create empowered youth, financially educated youth, and self actualized, self aware, self controlled, self improving amazing kids.
In essence, we help our kids get awesome in every possible way... AND, we teach them the tools to get rich.
(awesome, right?)
Can you imagine what a world that could create in 15 years? When you have millionaire 14 year olds with ethics growing into making the world a better place?
Man. That's going to be cool.
Sensei Ono, Shinka Martial Arts.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Martial Arts Birthdays
I must say, I love doing a martial arts birthday party at Shinka.
Its just so much martial arts fun packed into a few hours!
I mean, last time we had about 50 kids running around all at the same time. It was awesome! (This was definitely a time where having such a huge martial arts school came in handy!!)
One thing that I've noticed, is that there tends to be the same basic personality types at all the parties, which really... REALLY drives home the importance of kids taking martial arts in the first place.
There's the "class clown" type, which is about 1-3 kids -- there's the "hard to pay attention" kids, which are about 5%, and then there's the really awesome, super intelligent kids which are about 2%, and the rest, which generally do what the majority is doing.
Invariably, of that top 2% which stand out so strongly as leaders, most of the time, they've either taken martial arts before, or are in something similar, like fencing or kendo.
I think that's why I love the really big martial arts parties the best. They have the same number of "class clowns" but there's a huge majority of kids who are there to have fun, eat cake, learn some self defense tips and play some games.
Happy birthday Shinka kids! We'll see you next year :-)
Sensei Ono, Shinka Martial Arts.
Its just so much martial arts fun packed into a few hours!
I mean, last time we had about 50 kids running around all at the same time. It was awesome! (This was definitely a time where having such a huge martial arts school came in handy!!)
One thing that I've noticed, is that there tends to be the same basic personality types at all the parties, which really... REALLY drives home the importance of kids taking martial arts in the first place.
There's the "class clown" type, which is about 1-3 kids -- there's the "hard to pay attention" kids, which are about 5%, and then there's the really awesome, super intelligent kids which are about 2%, and the rest, which generally do what the majority is doing.
Invariably, of that top 2% which stand out so strongly as leaders, most of the time, they've either taken martial arts before, or are in something similar, like fencing or kendo.
I think that's why I love the really big martial arts parties the best. They have the same number of "class clowns" but there's a huge majority of kids who are there to have fun, eat cake, learn some self defense tips and play some games.
Happy birthday Shinka kids! We'll see you next year :-)
Sensei Ono, Shinka Martial Arts.
Monday, July 5, 2010
Kicking in the pants
As an instructor, when do we "kick 'em in the pants" to get them moving?
A question I'd often asked myself... until my fiancé did it to me yesterday with miraculous results.
I'd had a string of negative momentum, and she helped turn me around back to positivity, and, as a result, some really great things happened.
The power of positive momentum is huge - and, if we let it, so too is the power of negative momentum.
I would say that the "kick 'em in the pants" training method should be a last resort, and only used to "reset" someone's momentum.
(speaking from experience, maybe we all need it from time to time in some areas ;)
Sensei Ono,
Shinka Martial Arts
A question I'd often asked myself... until my fiancé did it to me yesterday with miraculous results.
I'd had a string of negative momentum, and she helped turn me around back to positivity, and, as a result, some really great things happened.
The power of positive momentum is huge - and, if we let it, so too is the power of negative momentum.
I would say that the "kick 'em in the pants" training method should be a last resort, and only used to "reset" someone's momentum.
(speaking from experience, maybe we all need it from time to time in some areas ;)
Sensei Ono,
Shinka Martial Arts
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Some great quotes to live by
| FAMOUS QUOTES “If what you’re doing is not your passion, you have nothing to lose.” | SENSEI'S THOUGHTS Couldn't agree more. Go for it! People live in unquantified fear - take stock of your worst fears and really quantify them. How bad, and how likely, are they, really? |
“The trouble with not having a goal is that you can spend your life running up and down the field and never score.” – Bill Copeland | Imagine God answering your prayers and having no clue what they are. Be specific! |
| “The person who says something is impossible should not interrupt the person who is doing it.” | The amount of time people spend on idle prattle because they are uncomfortable with the accomplishments of others, or simply the absence of noise is astounding. Breathe, and think. Truly, this is advice that should not have to be given, but, breathe, and think. |
| “It is never too late to be what you might have been.” – George Eliot | I think that my prescription for a life well lived is to define & quantify what that means to you, and to take regular, daily action towards that end. |
| “Great minds discuss ideas. Average minds discuss events. Small minds discuss people.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt | Great minds understand the power of ideas - even when discussing people, they are often discussing the ideas which they represent. Subtle difference. |
| “If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door.” -Milton Berle | Opportunity DOES knock, once you start working on the door. (heh, and it often knocks before the door is 100% complete) |
| “Don’t say you don’t have enough time. You have exactly the same number of hours per day that were given to Helen Keller, Pasteur, Michaelangelo, Mother Teresea, Leonardo da Vinci, Thomas Jefferson, and Albert Einstein.” – Life’s Little Instruction Book, compiled by H. Jackson Brown, Jr. | Ugh! Yeah, and, don't say "you have too much time" to someone who does something better than you. (pet peeve) |
| “When you can’t change the direction of the wind — adjust your sails.” ~ H. Jackson Brown | Thinking on your feet is the ONLY attribute that matters in the long run. While strategy is great, NONE are flawless, and NONE do not require strategic, on-the-fly adjustments. |
| “Confidence comes not from always being right but not fearing to be wrong” | If you have what you desire in front of you, and it is aligned with your ethics - how CAN you make mistakes, truly? You are making STEPS. |
Sensei Ono, Shinka Martial Arts
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Life's Lessons
I found this list on Yee Shun-Jian's blog, and found it inspiring:
1. The more you chase, the more they run. Work on attracting (pulling) people to you instead of chasing after them.
So true. In business, romance, and life. However, if you're super passionate about something long enough, it becomes a reality that people do flock to - so its a contradiction.
2. Love is not about “finding your other half”. We’ve been misled to think that love is like addition… 1/2 + 1/2 = 1. No, no, no… Love is more like multiplication… so 1/2 * 1/2 = only 1/4. We need to work on ourselves, so we become whole on our own (do not need or rely on someone else to complete us)… when we do that, we begin to attract other individuals that are whole as well… Realize that 1 * 1 = 1
I disagree. Love is synergy. 1+1=4
3. If you never ask, the answer is always no.
4. Money is just a means to an end. Sure, it’ll be great to have a lot of money but what we really want isn’t the money in and of itself… what we want is what that money can do for us… what it brings us.
5. There’s no use trying to logically convince someone. Use emotions.
6. Besides “I love you”, the next best thing you can say to someone is “Thank you”. People love to feel appreciated. Why deny them such a wonderful feeling, by withholding two words that don’t cost you anything?
I once heard a nice quote that goes along with this: Unexpressed gratitude is like a gift left unopened.
9. (I edited this one) Don't relive drama. It hurt once - why replay that hurt again and again?
10. Nobody likes doormats. Nobody respects doormats. Stop agreeing with everything I say. Have an opinion. It’s attractive.
11. Stop looking outwards for external things, people and events to fill up your inner void. You’re looking in the wrong place. The answer you seek is INSIDE.
12. The iphone is great… it can help you do a lot of things. But it can’t give you a hug when you’re feeling down. So stop fiddling with your iphone when you’re out with your friends… unless you’re coding the “hug me when everyone’s gone” application.
13. Spend time with your family. Take your parents out for meals and movies. It doesn’t cost a lot… but it makes them really happy.
14. When you stay EMO, you’re telling the right guy/girl who comes along: “I’m not ready for your love because I’m still upset about what the wrong guy/girl did… run along now… I’ll catch up with you in 20 years tops!”
15. Nobody owes you anything. I repeat… nobody owes you anything!
16. In 5 years, you’ll look back and laugh at the biggest problem you’re having now.
17. If you aren’t happy single, you won’t be happy in a relationship. Another person only magnifies your problems. You’ll project all your unhappiness on the poor guy/girl and he/she is going to leave you and you’ll reaffirm to yourself that you suck. Happiness doesn’t start with someone else… it starts with you.
Addition/edit: Another person only magnifies your STATE. (not just your problems, but your good stuff too)
18. Love yourself first. How can you hate yourself and expect someone else to love you?
19. Stop reading about other people’s success stories and idolizing them and start doing what it is you are supposed to do to create your own success story so others can read about and idolize you.
20. Figure out what you want… otherwise others will just string you along to accomplish what THEY want.
21. Once in a while, do the opposite of what that little voice inside is telling you. See what happens.
Albert Einstein had an interesting take on that. He said that if at first an idea isn't ridiculous, that it has no future.
22. The media is full of propaganda. Don’t believe everything you come across in the newspapers and on tv.
23. There is no magic pill.
24. Nobody’s zooming in on all your perceived flaws and judging you because of that except yourself. Seriously, most people won’t notice your beer belly until you tell them about it.
25. Don’t always try to be the hero. You can’t help someone who’s not willing to help themselves.
26. Most people equate attention to love… that’s why we’re always doing silly things to get attention.
27. Don’t be so afraid of death that you stop living and going after your dreams
28. We are so used to taking things for granted. Stop, just for a second, to admire the beauty that surrounds you.
29. At the end of the day, no matter what you do, you’ll have critics. Just do what you love and what makes you happy, and be thankful there are people who care enough to talk about you.
1. The more you chase, the more they run. Work on attracting (pulling) people to you instead of chasing after them.
So true. In business, romance, and life. However, if you're super passionate about something long enough, it becomes a reality that people do flock to - so its a contradiction.
2. Love is not about “finding your other half”. We’ve been misled to think that love is like addition… 1/2 + 1/2 = 1. No, no, no… Love is more like multiplication… so 1/2 * 1/2 = only 1/4. We need to work on ourselves, so we become whole on our own (do not need or rely on someone else to complete us)… when we do that, we begin to attract other individuals that are whole as well… Realize that 1 * 1 = 1
I disagree. Love is synergy. 1+1=4
3. If you never ask, the answer is always no.
4. Money is just a means to an end. Sure, it’ll be great to have a lot of money but what we really want isn’t the money in and of itself… what we want is what that money can do for us… what it brings us.
5. There’s no use trying to logically convince someone. Use emotions.
6. Besides “I love you”, the next best thing you can say to someone is “Thank you”. People love to feel appreciated. Why deny them such a wonderful feeling, by withholding two words that don’t cost you anything?
I once heard a nice quote that goes along with this: Unexpressed gratitude is like a gift left unopened.
9. (I edited this one) Don't relive drama. It hurt once - why replay that hurt again and again?
10. Nobody likes doormats. Nobody respects doormats. Stop agreeing with everything I say. Have an opinion. It’s attractive.
11. Stop looking outwards for external things, people and events to fill up your inner void. You’re looking in the wrong place. The answer you seek is INSIDE.
12. The iphone is great… it can help you do a lot of things. But it can’t give you a hug when you’re feeling down. So stop fiddling with your iphone when you’re out with your friends… unless you’re coding the “hug me when everyone’s gone” application.
13. Spend time with your family. Take your parents out for meals and movies. It doesn’t cost a lot… but it makes them really happy.
14. When you stay EMO, you’re telling the right guy/girl who comes along: “I’m not ready for your love because I’m still upset about what the wrong guy/girl did… run along now… I’ll catch up with you in 20 years tops!”
15. Nobody owes you anything. I repeat… nobody owes you anything!
16. In 5 years, you’ll look back and laugh at the biggest problem you’re having now.
17. If you aren’t happy single, you won’t be happy in a relationship. Another person only magnifies your problems. You’ll project all your unhappiness on the poor guy/girl and he/she is going to leave you and you’ll reaffirm to yourself that you suck. Happiness doesn’t start with someone else… it starts with you.
Addition/edit: Another person only magnifies your STATE. (not just your problems, but your good stuff too)
18. Love yourself first. How can you hate yourself and expect someone else to love you?
19. Stop reading about other people’s success stories and idolizing them and start doing what it is you are supposed to do to create your own success story so others can read about and idolize you.
20. Figure out what you want… otherwise others will just string you along to accomplish what THEY want.
21. Once in a while, do the opposite of what that little voice inside is telling you. See what happens.
Albert Einstein had an interesting take on that. He said that if at first an idea isn't ridiculous, that it has no future.
22. The media is full of propaganda. Don’t believe everything you come across in the newspapers and on tv.
23. There is no magic pill.
24. Nobody’s zooming in on all your perceived flaws and judging you because of that except yourself. Seriously, most people won’t notice your beer belly until you tell them about it.
25. Don’t always try to be the hero. You can’t help someone who’s not willing to help themselves.
26. Most people equate attention to love… that’s why we’re always doing silly things to get attention.
27. Don’t be so afraid of death that you stop living and going after your dreams
28. We are so used to taking things for granted. Stop, just for a second, to admire the beauty that surrounds you.
29. At the end of the day, no matter what you do, you’ll have critics. Just do what you love and what makes you happy, and be thankful there are people who care enough to talk about you.
Friday, July 2, 2010
Licorice cures obesity - the licorice & strawberries diet
So, not only is this treatment good for anti carcenogenic lifestyle, but it turns out, this'll help you with obesity too.
(watch towards the end of the vid for obesity specific)
(watch towards the end of the vid for obesity specific)
Thursday, July 1, 2010
New study discovers obesity is contagious!
We've heard that laughter is contagious. That sadness is contagious. Heck, that YAWNS are as contagious as income, hobbies and god knows what else.
The human being is a herd animal. We love to follow, we're excellent at adapting to our environments and our surroundings.
I believe that, just as "average" people aren't smart, or rich, or healthy, that our perception of this makes us want to be average. Sticking out is dangerous. You get excluded from the social group.
Of course there are different theories on this. Do we attract that which we are, or do we adapt to that which surrounds us?
All the more reason to go to an awesome environment filled with awesome people with awesome goals.
What's the average awesomeness in your life?
Sensei Ono, Shinka Martial Arts
The human being is a herd animal. We love to follow, we're excellent at adapting to our environments and our surroundings.
I believe that, just as "average" people aren't smart, or rich, or healthy, that our perception of this makes us want to be average. Sticking out is dangerous. You get excluded from the social group.
Of course there are different theories on this. Do we attract that which we are, or do we adapt to that which surrounds us?
All the more reason to go to an awesome environment filled with awesome people with awesome goals.
What's the average awesomeness in your life?
Sensei Ono, Shinka Martial Arts
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