Teachable Spirit: Growth Through Humility in Martial Arts Training

Being teachable means so much to both seasoned and up-and-coming martial artists. Many of us start with zero martial arts background, while others begin new journeys after years of training in other styles.

Whatever the background, being able to start with a fresh mind and a willingness to learn from anyone will ensure success. It will help with the learning curve of new body movements and thought processes. If I come onto the mat already thinking I know the answers, I won’t have the mental capacity to learn anything new. We bow before coming onto the mat to symbolize emptying our cup; we can’t add anything new to something already full.

No matter who is teaching or who your partner is, train with open eyes. There’s so much to learn from watching martial artists at all levels. We can learn better positioning, how to see telegraphs and tells, and how to hide our movements better. Be a good listener as well; hear common critiques. If you hear the same correction given to multiple students, you can check yourself and adjust before needing to make the same correction.

If you’ve trained before, that doesn’t mean you should forget your foundation, body control, and power technique. Think of this as a new opportunity to see a different perspective and possibly add to what you already know. This should lessen the learning curve because you have the strength to perform techniques, are used to focusing and listening, and are accustomed to drilling quality reps.

Always approach each day with a White Belt mindset but a Black Belt heart.

Manny De Los Santos

3rd Degree Black Belt

Chief Instructor of Team Chip Abilene