It Takes Time and Hard Work 

by Master Philip Ameris

  
To truly benefit from Taekwondo, it is imperative to work hard and be consistent in your training.  If you are aiming to get into better shape, you have to do more than talk about it.  You have to work out and watch your diet.  There is no secret, it is very simple. However, as easy as it sounds one must have the discipline to persevere when temptation of that piece of cake or candy appears. In order to develop discipline, one must commit to a goal, and not waiver off the path, no matter what. If you are busy at work, or you have extra homework, get up earlier, make the time, do not make excuses.  If you hurt your leg, work on your hand techniques.  There are always ways to improve. You will never develop discipline in anything, if you do not have discipline in the small things. Let me give you an example. I read a great book about the Marines.  In this book, it talked about how the drill sergeant was so strict, regarding the cleanliness of his platoon. He made them be sure that their beds were made, so a quarter could bounce when thrown on it.  Their shoes had to shine and their uniforms had to be clean and pressed. When questioned why he was so strict with things that seem so trivial, he said that in order to develop discipline and self reliance, you had to make sure your daily routine was one of order.  To forget even the smallest task when in combat, by forgetting or not doing your best, could cost the solider or someone else his or her life. How right he is!  Master Ameris Sparring

 

I am a firm believer that the art of Taekwondo is one of the most effective methods to instill discipline. However, the student must do their part. It takes way more than coming to class.  Below I will list elements that will enhance developing an iron will that is rooted in discipline. Please always remember, Taekwondo is a positive metaphor for living. And that each day, you should be using your Taekwondo discipline in everything you do.  Just like the solider mentioned above. 

Be consistent in your training.
Grand Master Cho states “one drop of water over time will penetrate a rock.” In order to achieve any worthwhile goal, it takes time and repetition. Remember that repetition is the mother of skill.  The more you do something, the better you will get. 

 
Master Ameris Teaching

Special Note for Parents.
 In order to teach your child how to develop good work ethics, they have to learn to keep working at things, and reach their goals. Taekwondo teaches a non-quitting spirit that will keep them going, and push through obstacles, even pain. For this benefit, it is essential that parents reinforce all of our school policies, and make their children come to class regularly. As a parent, it is your responsibility to have your children do things you know will improve their lives. Please do not forget - YOU are the boss, not the other way around. 

Set goals.  
Set realistic goals, and do not quit until you reach them. Do whatever is necessary. If it means coming to more classes, do it.  If it means getting private classes, by all means schedule one. You have one life to live, live it.  You can get what you want, if you are willing to work for it.  Read, listen and study.  Put in the effort, and the results will come.

Give back.  
This one is for high belts. To teach is to learn.  As a black belt, it is your responsibility to pass on your art.  This shows respect for Taekwondo, and your instructor.  All brown belts and higher should teach at least one day per month. That is a very doable schedule, with the number of high belts we have.  As an instructor, you will not know the positive impact you may have on someone.  Make the time to teach.  You will improve, and at the same time you will be fulfilling your obligation to your Do-jang. 

Be patient.  
Again, anything of value takes time. Know that you may have setbacks with injuries, or whatever life may throw your way. Also know that every class you may not feel your best.  However, you can put forth your best effort, and there is always the next class. Realize that Taekwondo is not a seasonal sport. It is a way of life.

Stay Sharp. 
Another one for high belts.  Many people make black belt and then quit training.  They reach their goal. Many feel what more is there to learn?  A few more patterns?  More one step sparring?  Different ways to kick?  Who needs to continue if they feel they are done, and that the skills they learned will always be there. Thinking this way is the same as never sharpening a knife.  After time, the blade will become dull and not be able to cut through the thinnest of paper. In order to be a Black Belt, you have to Be a Black Belt and train!  You must constantly and repeatedly sharpen your blade. 

Respect and Loyalty.  
Last on the list, but surely the most important; Respect yourself, number one.  If you do not respect yourself, and live by the standards you set, no one else will respect you. Respect everyone.  Remember the golden rule, treat others how you would want them to treat you. How simple this is to say, but how hard it sometimes is to do.  My dad used to tell me,  “treat me nice, and I will treat you better.  Treat me bad, and you will be treated worse”.   

Loyalty.
I mention this because today in the Martial Arts world, many people have lost the respect and appreciation for their instructors or masters. I have seen it over and over.  Loyalty is somehow mistaken for worshiping or being subservient.  Loyalty is appreciating the gift your master has given you.  Grand Master Cho has been my instructor for over 25 years.  I cannot express my sincere gratitude for all he has taught me - not only in the Marital Arts, but in my life.  To turn my back on him would be the same as changing my last name.  That is how serious I believe a student and Master's relationship should be. When my time on earth is finished, I pray my legacy will be that I was a good father, a good husband, a good son, a good brother, a good friend; that I cared about my union brothers, and sisters and did my best to represent them; and that I stood for what I believed; that I was Grand Master Hee Il Cho’s student, and taught with the same passion that Grand Master Cho taught me; that I passed on my knowledge and passion to my students, and made their lives better through the gift of Taekwondo.