|
Redefining Your School's
Purpose For Growth
by Grandmaster John St. James - 9th Dan
Atlantic-Pacific Tang Soo Do Federation
Martial Arts school owners are often driven by a myriad of
factors - tradition, charismatic leadership, financial success,
innovative programs, social events, the pursuit of a larger space, and
an audience of seekers. But what happens when these driving forces cease
or no longer resonate with the community? It's time to pivot back to the
core - to become a purpose-driven school.
What is Your Driving Force?
The first question every Martial Arts school owner should ask is,
"Why do we exist?" This fundamental question speaks volumes about the
underlying motivations of a school. Is your school chasing temporary
trends, or does a lasting sacred purpose anchor it? Remember, a
sacred purpose outlives plans, programs, and personalities.
Recognizing the Plateau
It's a familiar story; your school grew, your community engaged, and the
momentum halted. Perhaps numbers have dwindled, enthusiasm has subsided,
or the school seems to be treading water. The most critical step is to
re-evaluate and redefine your purpose. It's about
identifying the heart of your practice and allowing that to direct all
your efforts.
Building on a Solid Foundation (Your Jaseh)
Your school's foundation dictates the reach and resilience of your
endeavors. You can never grow beyond the capacity of your base. A school
driven by a clear and resonant purpose has the strength and structure to
expand without losing its essence. A purposeful foundation
ensures sustainability and impact. Just as a firm stance "Jaseh"
improves "Hyung or Kata," it also improves a school's success.
Purpose as a Filter
Understanding your school's purpose provides a clear lens for
decision-making. It guides what you choose and, just as importantly,
what you choose not to do. A school's scope of activity should reflect
its sacred mission, thus creating a cohesive brand experience for the
students and families involved. The Zen approach, integral to many
martial arts, emphasizes mindfulness, clarity, and being present in the
moment. Applying purpose as a filter is similar to applying a Zen
mindset in business. It leads to better decision-making, improved focus,
and
reduced stress under pressure.
The Line of Courage
In "The Master's Path - How to Intentionally Create More Happiness, Joy,
and Fulfillment in Your Life," I explore the "Line of Courage." It
represents the commitment to focus and align with our seven tenets of
Integrity, Concentration, Perseverance, Respect, Self-Control, Humility,
and Indomitable Spirit. The Line of Courage is about walking the talk
and embedding these values deeply into your school's operations. Are you
teaching the code, creed, tenets, and attitudinal requirements? More
importantly, are you practicing them yourself?
Attracting Cooperation and Evaluation
A school with a clear purpose naturally attracts people who share that
vision. It also lends itself to practical evaluation. Ask yourself,
"What is our business?" followed by, "How's business?" This
self-assessment will reveal whether you truly live up to your school's
purpose.
Case Study: The Power of a Sacred Promise
Consider this example: A school defining its core promise as helping
students to "learn and grow mentally, physically, and with spirit"
conveys a powerful sacred purpose. This promise galvanizes the
community, ensuring every student's experience aligns with the "Whole
Person Concept." A school that focuses on ensuring its students are
learning, growing, sharing, serving, leading, and hopefully inspiring is
a school that will grow.
A Strong Point of View
Having a strong point of view (POV) is essential. By advocating that
"investing in martial arts training is a smart decision," a school
underscores that transformational training builds success traits leading
to personal growth and, with time and practice, a peak performer. As we
say, "You cannot be and have more until you become more." Just as
martial arts require rigorous discipline and consistent practice to
master, so does growing a business or school. It comes down to
disciplined planning, relentless execution, and continual honing of
skills and
knowledge.
In conclusion, to cultivate an environment where students and
families are engaged and deeply invested, it's crucial to be more
than just a place for learning martial arts techniques. Redefine your
school with a sacred purpose, and watch as every aspect of your
operations
aligns with growth, depth, and significance. Stand tall, stay humble,
and open yourself to the myriad ways of achieving growth in your
martial arts school. Remember - true martial arts mastery extends beyond
the mat; it encompasses the wisdom to lead and expand your school
without compromising its core values.
Always in the Spirit of Moo Do Excellence,
|
