numskul
11-11-2008, 07:14
This week at my dojang, we are meditating on assertiveness. Assertiveness is not to be confused with pushiness or obstinacy.
I love the visual our instructor painted about how a developed martial artist becomes assertive through the practice of their art. The sense of accomplishment, discipline, humility and justice produce individuals who can calmly state their views, advocate for the good, and accept differences without confrontation or anger. Assertiveness also means that we do what is right, not popular. We are practicing assertiveness when we hold true to our principles even when others entice us to diverge from the right path.
At first, I thought that assertiveness opposed humility. However, after some reflection and meditation, I am beginning to see how they can co-exist. Assertiveness, when backed by a sense of right-doing and care for others based on a humble view of ourselves, helps to shape our world and creates a positive and respectful environment. Assertiveness to achieve our own selfish goals or crossing the line into obstinacy or pushiness has the opposite effect.
In relation to the physical practice of Hapkido I see assertiveness in a crisp and competent execution of techniques based on muscle memory and tons of training; no hesitation, no second-guessing, no milk-toast response. This type of assertiveness sets a tone with our opponents and makes them think twice- it has a powerful psychological effect.
Once again, I am blown away at just how important it is to develop our minds as much as our bodies. What I used to think was a bunch of superstitious ritual has quickly proven itself to be a fundamental component of my Hapkido learning.
I will seek to go forth with assertiveness.
Blessings
I love the visual our instructor painted about how a developed martial artist becomes assertive through the practice of their art. The sense of accomplishment, discipline, humility and justice produce individuals who can calmly state their views, advocate for the good, and accept differences without confrontation or anger. Assertiveness also means that we do what is right, not popular. We are practicing assertiveness when we hold true to our principles even when others entice us to diverge from the right path.
At first, I thought that assertiveness opposed humility. However, after some reflection and meditation, I am beginning to see how they can co-exist. Assertiveness, when backed by a sense of right-doing and care for others based on a humble view of ourselves, helps to shape our world and creates a positive and respectful environment. Assertiveness to achieve our own selfish goals or crossing the line into obstinacy or pushiness has the opposite effect.
In relation to the physical practice of Hapkido I see assertiveness in a crisp and competent execution of techniques based on muscle memory and tons of training; no hesitation, no second-guessing, no milk-toast response. This type of assertiveness sets a tone with our opponents and makes them think twice- it has a powerful psychological effect.
Once again, I am blown away at just how important it is to develop our minds as much as our bodies. What I used to think was a bunch of superstitious ritual has quickly proven itself to be a fundamental component of my Hapkido learning.
I will seek to go forth with assertiveness.
Blessings