Project Confidence, Not Anger

Confidence:

A true martial artist is a person so strong inside that he has no need to demonstrate (or show off) his power and ability, especially by fighting. The reason men fight is because they are insecure, angry, emotionally unstable or must prove something. The man who is secure with himself has no need to prove anything with force, he can walk away from a confrontation or avoid a fight with dignity and pride.

The point of achieving proficiency in any martial art is to be able to walk away from a possible fight rather than to win it, and you will do it knowing that you prevented injury to the other person. If you do injure anyone in a fight, you will regret it later. Hopefully when your antagonist has cooled down, this attitude of confidence will be communicated so he realizes that he narrowly escaped defeat or injury. You must train many years to reach this higher level of confidence. If you are still in doubt about your ability during a confrontation or fight, then you need more training.

Some ways to avoid fighting are to apologize or walk away right away so it does not reach the critical stage. Or by not arguing back, agreeing with your opponent or keeping quiet so the situation can cool down. Keep saying “you’re right, it was my fault”… Some angry people are only acting violent to scare others. By just breathing slowly for ten seconds you can be more calm, think clearly and control the confrontation.

“Control your emotions or it will control you.”

……Chinese adage

Anger:

In kumite, especially a sempai should never get angry and hurt anyone during practice. You should remain confident and calm because anger shows in your face and body movements (intentions). You cannot control contact when you are angry. In a match when both contestants are evenly matched, the one with the disciplined mind has the distinct advantage.

In life you cannot think clearly or make good decisions when you are angry; you say and do things that you do not mean and feel sorry later. A person in a responsible position (including sempais and senseis) must show confidence and wisdom by remaining calm and making important decisions. This will earn the respect of his followers, peers, workers, students, etc.

“The angry man will defeat himself in battle as well as in life.”

……Samurai maxim