Are You Pro-Active?

One of the most recent buzzwords that I have heard in the business environment is the term Pro-Active.  My initial thoughts on this phrase are that it is too often it is used as a sword rather than a shield. I have seen it regularly used by supervisors and bosses during employee evaluations to “constructively” suggest that they should work harder.  Or perhaps suggest that they should possess a crystal ball so that they can “pro-actively” rectify situations that they are not aware exist.  In this manner it is being used as a sword to attack someone. I feel that the proper usage of the term is to protect youself (shield). The heart of the intent of the phrase is: do you take reasonable steps to minimize risk (whether that risk...

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Respect Starts With You

Two of the keys in Fang Shen Do success, or perhaps success in any endeavor, is Accountability and Self Discipline. Too often we see that these important attributes are not present or are not being taught to people in general. I could pick several examples that I have seen where people seem to spend more time and energy to shirk the responsibility, than the actual effort the endeavor would take. As we teach our students in the Junior FSD class, there are three types of discipline: there is self-discipline, there is good discipline, and there is bad discipline. The most important discipline is self-discipline. Self-Discipline: the ability and will to ensure that you are doing what you're supposed to be doing when you are supposed to be doing...

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Preparing To Move Up The Ranks... Belt Testing

The Martial Arts are known for many things - effective self defense, focus, discipline, healthy lifestyle are just a few... One of the benefits that I have realized and what keeps me enthusiastic about my training is the MENTAL training in a martial art such as Fang Shen Do. As hard as is it is to believe, many people (Martial Artists included) spend 1000's of dollars per year on the outside of their head (hair styles, shampoo and other products) but less than 50 a year on the inside of their head - good books, motivational audios, seminars, etc.). We have two great products to help you kick 2013 off with a great start.The first is Sijo's book - 10 Secrets to Rock Solid Martial Art Foundation.  This book will ensure that...

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FEBRUARY IS FAMILY MONTH AT TORONTO FSD

Along with my previous posts talking about the benefits of the martial arts; like focus, self-discipline, and respect, I am greatly encouraged by the number of parents who are choosing to invest in their child’s future by having them train in the martial arts.  As many of you know, I have 2 daughters (now aged 18 and 17).  They both started training when they were 4& 5 years old and are still training to this day (15 years later).  My youngest daughter – Chayse – is well known for her abilities and skills in teaching the younger students, whereas my oldest, Jenna, is my secondary when I have to demonstrate advanced and weapon techniques.  In addition, my wife Sam also trains consistently.  For...

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