"Through my years of training, the only thing I’ve learned is that I don’t know everything." - Hanshi Doug Perry 10th dan

 

Posted by ADAM CARTER on MAY 22, 2023

"Through my years of training, the only thing I’ve learned is that I don’t know everything." - Hanshi Doug Perry 10th dan

 

Martial arts, steeped in rich traditions and diverse styles, have evolved over centuries to become a fundamental part of many cultures. While the pursuit of mastery and personal growth are core tenets, it’s not uncommon to encounter martial artists who exhibit stubbornness when it comes to embracing something different.

One key reason for martial artists' stubbornness lies in their deep reverence for tradition. Martial arts have been passed down through generations, with each style containing a unique heritage and philosophy.

For some practitioners, adhering to the traditional techniques, rituals, and values becomes a way to honor their martial lineage (or legacy). Embracing something different can be seen as a deviation from this lineage, possibly diluting the authenticity and integrity of their chosen art form. Thus, stubbornness emerges as a form of respect and loyalty towards the ancient traditions that have shaped their martial journey.

Another factor could be the fear of diluting their expertise. Years of training often instill a deep sense of pride and accomplishment in practitioners. By venturing into new techniques or styles, they may feel that their existing knowledge and skills could be compromised or overshadowed.

This fear of losing their hard-earned mastery acts as a deterrent, leading to a resistance to change. It is often easier for martial artists to remain steadfast in their current practices rather than risk uncertainty and potential setbacks by exploring the unknown.

We are all creatures of habit, and martial artists are no exception. Over time, practitioners develop a profound familiarity with their chosen style, its movements, strategies, and nuances. This familiarity breeds a sense of comfort and security. Venturing into something different means stepping outside this comfort zone, confronting the unknown, and embracing a learning curve. The stubbornness to learn something new can stem from a desire to preserve this sense of familiarity and avoid the initial challenges that come with change.

Martial arts often become intertwined with a practitioner's personal identity and emotional well-being. They provide a sense of purpose, discipline, and self-confidence. For some the stubbornness to learn something different may arise from a fear of losing this integral part of their identity.

Exploring new styles or techniques can challenge deeply held beliefs and undermine their established self-image. The fear of losing their identity as a martial artist can contribute to their resistance towards change, as they grapple with the notion of reconstructing their sense of self.

While stubbornness may limit growth and exposure to new techniques and philosophies, it is important to recognize the value of tradition and the individual's need for stability and personal identity. Balancing these factors with an openness to learning something different is a delicate yet transformative process that can enrich the martial artist's journey and broaden horizons.

Being open-minded is really important in advancing your knowledge in the martial arts…. you really DON’T know it all. And of course it is only possible to deepen that understanding if you ACCEPT that you don’t have all of the information…. and that you really don’t know everything.

“It is impossible for a man to learn what he thinks he already knows.” - Epictetus

 Photo Credit: With thanks to Hanshi Doug Perry & Jason Perry