Advocate for Martial Arts
As you might of realized by now I'm a pretty strong advocate for taking up martial art practice. And for good reason. I've had superb results in many areas of my life all because I'm a martial artist, specifically, because of the qualities that one develops by practicing the arts. I assure you the same results are waiting for you. IF... And this a big if. If you find the right school along with the right instructor. For me personally, the way I was taught was, martial arts was more than just learning how to throw punches and kicks it was a tool you could you use to improve and bring balance in all areas of your life. This balance should extend to all areas: Your fitness level and physical appearance. Your relationship with your spouse, kids and friends. Your Character and Attitude. Your level of personal and financial success. Showing Respect in the highest Form: Self-Respect. Which starts with making the right food choices and treating your body as the priceless possession that it is. The total package so to speak. It really is as simple as that. No need to over-complicate. Take most people's fitness programs. Alot of people need to always "change it up" so they don't get bored. Or they feel the need to discover the next revolutionary piece of equipment that will get them the results they're after. But right from the start they're thinking is flawed and the same is true with most people starting martial art practice. It's not the techniques or the equipment that will get you results. The right thinking will. This is where the right instructor comes into play. The right instructor will help instill in you the right values that make everything else possible. Patience, Respect, Honesty, Commitment, Discipline, Character and Focus. Arm yourself with these qualities and there's nothing you'll start and not finish. You can learn all the techniques you want, become proficient using any piece of equipment, all of which can change from time to time. What never changes are the foundational qualities you must acquire to make everything else happen at double the speed with less effort on a consistent basis. Master Yourself, Sibok M P.S. Learn more about laying a Rock-Solid Martial Art Foundation by ordering a copy of FSD's 10 Secrets here. Labels: Fang Shen Do, Life Lessons, Martial Art Lifestyle, Sibok Martin Patenaude
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Everything is Kung-Fu
Do you recognize this statement? This is one of Jackie Chan's lines in the upcoming "The Karate Kid" Movie. My focus has always been to live by this statement. When you practice martial arts, whether you're aware of it or not, puts you on a path of self-mastery. Some never stick with it long enough to see and feel the effects of their training transfer to other areas of their life. Others though, who possess self-discipline, commitment, and follow through, reap the rewards and start noticing the clear difference one feels by staying a martial artist. When hours of repetition and dedicated focus are put into mastering various techniques, it doesn't take long that you catch yourself using the same techniques to master other skills outside the dojo. Holding yourself to this high standard is infectious, in a good way. It will spread to everything you do. Why would a student invest so much time harnessing the power of patience, awareness, balance, focus, visualization, repetition, consistency, and goal setting to become a great martial art practitioner and not want to improve all other areas of their life? The answer is: They all do. The one's that maintain their training all naturally gravitate towards a want to improve all other areas. Like renovating a house. Don't be fooled by your spouse in thinking: "We'll just renovate the bathroom" Soon after you'll want to renovate the kitchen. Then the living room, the master bath, etc... And there's nothing wrong with that as long as you do the same with your most prized possession: Your body and mind. What are you doing to constantly upgrade your skills? Either you become a martial artist today and get started in one of our schools and start reading FSD's Prime Literature. If you're already a member or training in martial arts browse the product section and see what new skills you can acquire and add to your repertoire. Master Yourself, Sibok M P.S. If you're not growing, you're dying. Avoid stagnation. Focus on constant and never ending improvement, only this will keep you on the path of self-mastery. Labels: Fang Shen Do, Life Lessons, Martial Art Lifestyle, Sibok Martin Patenaude
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Have a Great Day?
Have a great day! No, No, No. Have a great year! Again, no, no, no. Have a great decade! Sorry, no! I want a great LIFE! Whatever road you're on right now in your life, is it the right one? Are you happy and fulfilled? Only you can answer that question. As a starting point I strongly believe you should first find out what you love to do (my father takes it a step further and asks what you were BORN to do) and make a living from it. This way work doesn't feel like work at all and most of your time is spent on creation and developing new products your customers can use. I wanted to give you a heads up today about major improvements and new products being released very shortly at FSD Central. With over 30 new titles coming to the products section I still wanted your opinion on what you would like to see covered in our extensive martial art library. Let me know which product would best help you improve your skills and I'll get right on it to produce it for you. Thank you for taking the time to answer and sharing your thoughts. Master Yourself, Sibok M P.S. You don't have to be a student of FSD to answer. Many people are on my list from different backgrounds and have various goals in the martial arts and about fitness in general. Your feedback is appreciated. Labels: Fang Shen Do, Fang Shen Do Review, FSD, Life Lessons, Martial Art Lifestyle, New Products, Sibok Martin Patenaude, Sijo Jacques Patenaude
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Live out of Mindsight not Eyesight
"The most complete map in the world won't take you anywhere unless you know where you are." This particular statement cannot be ignored. Do you know where YOU are? Without this critical information there's no chance for advancement and self-improvement. On a weekly basis you should be tracking where you are, and daily would be the ideal. Whether this is for fitness or business goals, knowing where you are simply makes it way clearer to know where you need to go. I know most people know this but are you doing it? When you hit daily goals, it creates a surge of energy and enthusiasm as well as momentum. Momentum to take you through this year and others to come. In all areas of your life, where are you headed? Are you drifting along haphazardly reacting to life or actively creating your destiny? From a Martial Art standpoint, skill, strength and flexibility doesn't just happen without dedicated effort and paying close attention to what 's working and what isn't in your training. Conversely, relationships don't last forever without romance, communication, adventure and honesty. A business organization doesn't stay alive and thriving for over 30 years without constantly re-inventing itself, re-investing profits and finding better ways to serve their customers. For each area of your life (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, family, and financial) put them under the microscope, think of it as research, just that the test subject is YOU. Live your life out of Mindsight not Eyesight. Mindsight means to live out of your imagination while Eyesight means to live out of memory. The past does not equal the future. You are responsible for what you create, make it amazing and worthwhile! Master Yourself, Sibok M Labels: Attitude, Fang Shen Do, Fitness Goals, Goals, Life Lessons, Mindsight, Personal Development, Sibok Martin Patenaude, Success
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Priceless Life Lessons
Every year on March 10th I reflect on where I started and how far I've come. Even though my father started my training at the same time I started walking. March 10th, 1985 marks the date of my first official exam ( i.e White Sash) in my martial art training. The first rank is always memorable as it marks the beginning of your journey, and if taught right, what you learn at this level will serve you well throughout your ascension to Black Belt and beyond. In September 1984, my very first class, I learned an important lesson that will surely stick with me for the rest of my life. Lately I've been getting many flashes from my childhood, like one of my past posts about the split test my dad had me do when I was 11 years old. Have you had these happen to you? I'm sure you have. We all have them but I tend to focus on the ones where I learned something important or that I was successful at doing. That way, I can use it to get myself in the right state, physical and mental in the present moment when undertaking a task or project I'm working on. These are every important for your self-image and using past successes to fuel your goals and dreams in the now as well as give you confidence knowing you can accomplish them because of those successful past experiences truly is priceless. So what did I learn on that faithful day? My dad had us all lined up and ready to start class. Since I was training and watching classes way before I ever did an official one I already knew how to start the class (a very short form to get the class started that consists mostly of testing your balance and coordination) and I wasn't shy about letting the guy know in front of me that I knew it. At that point, my father gave me the "LOOK". That one look, with no words exchanged taught me a lesson that I would carry on in my training even to this day. I don't think any of the other 6 year olds got it but I did. "Whatever you think you know, you don't" "When it's time to talk, talk" "When it's time to train, train." "There's always something to learn if you just pay attention well enough". That right there has served me alot in my 26 years of training. This one lesson as well as many others have been very valuable in all areas of my life. All this to say: Use your PAST and get back to basics. Attack everything you do with a beginner's mind. Not only will you have more fun doing what it is you do, you'll learn faster, your enthusiasm and passion will soar and you'll get a different perspective on what you think you know. Master Yourself, Sibok M P.S. Want to learn a new skill? Find something of interest in our Product Section. Satisfaction Guaranteed! Labels: Attitude, Black Belt, Enthusiasm, Fang Shen Do, Life Lessons, Passion, Sibok Martin Patenaude, Sijo Jacques Patenaude
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Your Greatest Mission
We both have an important mission you and I. Do you know what it is? This quote pretty much sums it up: "Men go forth to wonder at the heights of mountains, the huge waves of the sea, the broad flow of the rivers, the vast compass of the ocean, the courses of the stars, and they pass by THEMSELVES without wondering." ~ St-Augustine  How amazing is it to be here, fully conscious, with the ability to create the reality we wish and experience life to the fullest. Do you realize the amazing potential you have locked inside? Your most important mission, responsibility, or job is developing, knowing and challenging... YOU. I happen to like the martial art path because of the fighting spirit it instills in you and the self-discipline you need to stick with it. Many paths can keep you on the path of self-mastery. Find yours and be dedicated to it. How sad would it be to go through life and only realize when it's too late what you could of really accomplished if you only took the time to realize how special and lucky you are? Just something to keep in mind and ponder about as you start your week off. Master Yourself, Sibok M Labels: Fang Shen Do, Fighting Spirit, Life Lessons, Purpose, Sibok Martin Patenaude
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Only for the Elite Class?
Just got back from an amazing weekend with my dad and brothers in Punta Cana. Although bathing in the sun was relaxing and energizing it couldn't compare to what we were exposed to, "Information Wise" over the weekend. As you might already know, secret societies have existed for thousands of years. There is one such society that is opening its doors to share with the world, information that was once kept only for the Elite Class. What does this have to do with martial arts? A martial artist is a warrior in every area of life, not just learning how to defend one's self or the ones you love but also protecting yourself from "Dream Stealers" and "Energy Leeches". Losers talk about Action. Winners Act. In anything you do it's important to surround yourself with like minded people. People that raise you up, not pull you down. Keeping this information for ourselves would be wrong. Which is why the first thing that came to mind today was sharing this with you. Hang out where we hang out, you need to be referred though. Invitation only. To access some of the info you'll need this affiliate code: 1508504 Visit this site only if you think you're worth more and think that in your life you feel like saying: "I can do better than this!" You can choose to become an affiliate (it's free) or become a full fledged member. Enter here.Master Yourself, Sibok M Labels: Attitude, Fang Shen Do, Life Lessons, Secret Societies, Sibok Martin Patenaude, Sijo Jacques Patenaude
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Fruit is always on a limb
In other words, nothing is ever easy. To quote Zig Ziglar: "Most people wait until everything is just right before they do anything. They refuse to go out on a limb because they don't understand that the fruit is always on the limb." Everything requires a little bit of effort, action and faith. You have success and a personal champion within you waiting to be discovered. Do you know someone who is "gonna do something just as soon as..." Do you know them personally as in, maybe...You? The people who wait until everything is "just right" before they do anything will NEVER do it. The time will never be just right to start training and losing weight. Nor will it be to stop smoking, changing the food you eat or starting your own business and making a living doing what you're most passionate about. This is the underlying principle of the Fang Shen Do System. To knock out the "I'll get around to it" mentality plaguing so many people today. The best way to get things done is to FEEL good. And what better way to do that than by first mastering your body. A strong body invariably leads to a strong mind that ultimately gets you to follow through on what you want the most. Here's how to do it.Master Yourself, Sibok M Labels: Attitude, Fang Shen Do, Life Lessons, Personal Development, Sibok Martin Patenaude, Sijo Jacques Patenaude
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I hear and I forget
With 20 days into the new year, how are you doing? Did you follow my advice and knock off the easiest goals on your list so you get the ball rolling and in turn create a surge of energy and excitement for the accomplishment of your other goals? I hope you did. I can tell you, I did that, and man am I ready to get things done this year. It's just simply impossible to have different results if you do the same things, the same way, using the same words and repeating what you did last year. "If you do what you have always done, you'll get what you've always got." Trust me, start with the little goals and expand from there. You'll build enough momentum and confidence to tackle your major goals. A famous poet once said: "I hear and forget. I see and hear, and I remember. However when I see, hear and DO, I understand and succeed." Keep your goals fresh in your mind's eye. Listen, read and stay inspired. Finally, ACT on your goals daily. Master Yourself, Sibok M P.S. Feeling good emotionally starts with feeling vibrant and strong physically. Learn an easy to follow plan to double your fitness level in 30 days or your money back. You can ACT on your fitness goals now by visiting this link. Labels: Attitude, Fang Shen Do, Fitness, Life Lessons, Patenaude Kung-Fu, Sibok Martin Patenaude, Station Training
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Watch who you listen to
With the upcoming renovations in Kanata and the construction work that needs to be done I can't help but think about common construction jargon. If you've ever had work done in your house you'll understand what I mean. It's hilarious. The same subject always comes up without fail. The person that comes in for the estimate and to inspect the work that needs to be done will always say this: "Which _(Add defamatory word here)__ did this work? "What the _(Add defamatory word here)__ was he thinking?" "He did the work all wrong?" "We'll make sure to do the work right". And surely if another worker would be brought in after the new renovation he'd repeat pretty much the same thing about the new work done: "Who the hell did this work?" "What effin' dummy..." Makes me think of the same disease plaguing martial artists. And especially on discussion boards and forums. You'll find the same kind of behavior in the martial arts world. Watch who you listen to. The internet is filled with so called experts. The answers aren't found in cyber space. To quote Bruce Lee: "There is no ultimate style. The ultimate is inside of You. Be true to yourself and your journey through life" Are you constantly working on the ultimate You? What have you done today to get you one step closer to achieving your goals? Master Yourself, Sibok M Labels: Attitude, Fang Shen Do, Life Lessons, Patenaude Kung-Fu, Sibok Martin Patenaude
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Never to be Forgotten
 At the Great Wall I admired these great big stone tablets lining the walls before starting our ascension through this wonder of the world. The wall's history is set in stone never to be forgotten. The stone tablets reminded me of the importance of writing, preserving and documenting goals, both past and present as they serve you in keeping track of YOUR history. It serves you as a reminder of: - What you were thinking about.
- What needed to be accomplished.
- Your dreams.
- What you went through to reach them.
- Who you were and who you've become.
I still review goals from 2, 3, 5 years ago. Just the other day I crossed off a goal I had written 7 years ago.  Once you plant a seed in your subconscious mind it doesn't forget. It will be hard at work making sure it accomplishes what you set out to do even if it means taking a few more years for its completion. When reviewing past and present goals you can't help but feel really happy that you took the time to write and record your thoughts and put a part of you on paper. Your life and what you make/made of it is worth recording right? Here you are at that time of year again where you have to prepare for next year's experience. Physically, where will you BE at this time next year? How much will you weigh? How strong will you be? What about Flexibility? Endurance? Which weapon will you master?  Will you make better food choices? Cut out filthy habits of smoking or doing drugs? Increase confidence to follow your true calling in life? Will you remember to breathe and take care of your internal world, flowing the chi and releasing unwanted stress? Who are you going to meet this year in love, business or as a role model? Will you hold yourself accountable throughout the year to make sure you're following through and working towards the completion of the goals you've set? Will you take some time alone at least once a week to meditate, feel your life and reflect on the choices you've made?  Will you dare to dream big goals? Will you demand your absolute best even when you don't feel like it? Will you get right back up after suffering a set-back or disappointment? Will you walk the path of mastery this year? I hope you do. And I'll be right there beside you. Master Yourself, Sibok M Labels: China Trip, Goals, Great Wall, Life Lessons, Sibok Martin Patenaude
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Quit now or Quit later?
Did you ever wonder why some people are successful in everything they undertake while others never seem to get anywhere really? I've seen it all too many times in martial arts and the same is true in any other field. Desire meets Action. Before long, you realize some work has to be done before you can call yourself a martial artist. Stickability is 95% ability. What's common is getting discouraged in the early stages of your training when you feel uncoordinated, stiff and out of shape. That, I can kind of understand, like all things new, a certain adaptation time is required so you can finally start moving naturally. Mentally at this stage, the strong are separated from the weak. What puzzles me are the ones that actually get the results they were looking for, like losing weight, increasing flexibility and strength, building confidence and character, developing skill and proficiency and then slowly see them slide into complacency. Which is better quitting in the beginning or quitting in the end? Neither one of them. Turn your stickability to "high" so you can experience the joys of finishing what you start while realizing the path of self-mastery has no end to it, just a series of steps, moving you upward in your evolution. Sibok M Labels: Fang Shen Do, Life Lessons, Sibok Martin Patenaude, Success
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I feel so sad for them
Last night we went out for dinner at the Lac Lemay Casino in Gatineau to celebrate my spouse's birthday. We had a great time and the food was excellent except for one thing. I usually go to the Casino about once a year, not to gamble but to enjoy a show or fine dining. And this "thing" I already know, I'm reminded of it every time I go there. I witness first hand the tragedy of not having goals, projects, a business, and ultimately the failure of not finding what you were born to do. I see a room full of elderly people wasting away at the slot machines. Rows upon rows of white heads staring at a screen. I feel so sad for them. Is that life? Is life so boring and uneventful that you have to settle for that? I'm not condoning a night out of fun and gambling at the casino. It's just that every time I go I see the same thing. If the same time and energy was invested in physical training, dream building, creating values for other people, and focusing on your true calling in life at ALL stages of life, wouldn't that bring you more joy, satisfaction and a sense of contribution? Where do you invest most of YOUR time and attention? "You become what you think about most of the time". The first time my dad told me this powerful little sentence I immediately put it into practice. Build a life you can be proud of, constantly strive to improve yourself and be committed to that philosophy throughout your life. Only then will you win the real jackpot. Master Yourself, Sibok M Labels: Attitude, Fang Shen Do, Life Lessons, Philosophy, Sibok Martin Patenaude
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Share in this celebration
It's been 25 years today since my parents had a near death motorcycle accident that left my mother in the hospital for 3 months, my dad in charge of raising 4 kids on his own and the future of my family was up in limbo. As is customary, every year my parents go on a bike ride this very day to prove to themselves that what happened that day was just a fluke accident and in no way would it stop them from enjoying the open road and the freedom associated with riding a motorcycle for years to come. It reminds me and I hope it does you, that whatever happens to us in our life, whether good or bad, in the end we choose to give it power or we simply move along unaffected by it. You can be so grateful for the little things in your life or be so caught up as to miss them. Which one will it be? When you go to bed tonight express some gratitude for the health you have and the people who are dear to you. Attack each day with enthusiasm and passion. We're so happy to be able to offer you quality products and be able to help you in some way through the practice of martial arts. Today is a special day for my parents. It's a reminder to celebrate life. We're extending that gratitude to you in the form of a sale. 25 years ago my parents were blessed to survive and be given a second chance, so please enjoy a 25% discount on any of our products today until midnight tomorrow. You just need to punch in: LIFE in the coupon box at check out. Master Yourself, Sibok M Labels: Enthusiasm, Gratitude, Health, Life Lessons, Passion
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Training with Leo Fong
With the death of Michael Jackson, it really puts in perspective the fragility of life.  No one signs a contract with life guaranteeing you live well into old age. Especially if you treat your body like a trash can. No matter how much money or friends you have, in the end you have to be happy with who you are. Your best friend is Yourself. Your body is your Temple. Time should be spent everyday working on improving some area about yourself. The food you eat. The physical training you have to implement into your daily routine. The books you read. Acting on the goals you've set. Enjoying time alone. Cutting addictions. Everything you do should be about extending your life not shortening it. Which brings me to the fourth person I trained with while here in LA. Leo Fong A 10 year student of Bruce Lee, very low key, funny and sharp considering his age. Leo epitomizes what a martial artist should look like in his 80s. Not just from a physical stand point but mentally and internally as well. There is a very narrow window in the life of a martial artist where many men, and some women, have a desire to fight in a ring or cage to measure themselves to another person. Something Leo recalls quite fondly back in his younger Boxing days. But at a certain point in your martial art training you grow out of that phase and into an another. The "Preservation Stage". Like I was mentioning earlier you want to focus on extending your life not cutting it short. I won't go through everything Leo does but it has to do with energy work. The kind that we teach in our Neigong Training. Remember some activites as well as some foods rob us of energy and some, replenish our energy supply. Daily practice of key Neigong movements will make a great difference in how you feel, your level of power, calmness, and vitality. It's a science that was once kept for the elite, royalty, taoist priests or the chosen few. Now you can learn these same techniques and principles out of the comfort of your own home.
You can get started right here. Master Yourself, Sibok M Labels: Fang Shen Do, Leo Fong, Life Lessons, Sibok Martin Patenaude
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Highs and Lows
For almost the past 2 weeks I've been on a cloud. Who wouldn't be? I got to workout with Bob Wall, I got to see him interact with my family, I listened to him give seminars with my dad, some of you who attended got to own a piece of Bruce Lee memorabilia and got to hear stories about him straight from the horse's mouth. I've rarely met such a kind man, ego-less although he owns much and has seen it all, he exemplifies the qualities of a real martial artist. And this morning, we had to say goodbye. We had good times and we sure didn't want them to end. Makes me realize how we all have to deal with ups and downs in our life. Sometimes disappointments. Other times failure. Followed by moments of happiness, accomplishment, and enthusiasm. To quote Bob Wall: "Losing is learning" You might of heard this kind of philosophy before. Whenever you feel a down, or you experience a temporary failure, get excited, pick yourself up, dust yourself off and get ready for round 2. Take it as a life lesson, learn from it and move on. Or in my case, I kept a detailed diary of the events and lessons I learned from Bob while I was around him, hundreds of pictures and video. You should do the same. Instead of dealing with downs when they occur why not prepare for them in advance with an "Inspiration Booklet". A book filled with empowering quotes, pictures, and images you've compiled which can be reviewed for a fast recharge when you need it. It can come in pretty handy when you need it. Try it. Master Yourself, Sibok M P.S Another way not to lose your focus is what we call a Strategic Action Guide. It comes free when you get a copy of FSD's 10 Secrets to building a Rock Solid Martial Art Foundation. Labels: Bob Wall, Fang Shen Do, Inspiration, Life Lessons, Philosophy
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Is Running the Answer?
Yes I know, that statement is probably being uttered in many self-defense classes all over the world and it's good advice. When at all possible walking or maybe even running away is the best choice to make when you're faced with an attacker, especially if he has a weapon in hand. But that's not the point of my e-mail today. It's also easier to lose weight if you at least run explosive sprints every day instead of "plopping" on the couch or engaging in excessive, lethargic sitting each day. But that's not my point either. Some of you are so busy running (metaphorically), running after things you don't need. While you're running through life, remember to stop and enjoy, appreciate and feel. Like one of my father's mentors would say: "Life for some is running, running so they can eventually find a bench to sit on and catch their breath, but they never reach the bench, as soon as they get close to it, it disappears and re-appears in the horizon, only to repeat itself". What does the story mean? Either what you're setting out to do is an illusion, it's not your true calling. You're doing it for the wrong reasons and following this path leads nowhere. Or You fail to acknowledge your successes. When you see the bench (a success or accomplishment) you immediately set another one without celebrating the present one. This path leads to never feeling fulfilled. Or You come to realize the bench isn't moving away from you, YOU'RE the one moving away from it (the goal) , self-sabotage is the name of this path. That's why I urge so many of you to become and stay Martial Artists. It's a way to stop and recharge your batteries. It's a way to unplug and release pent up emotions that bring you stress. It's a way to strengthen the mind-body connection that so many people have lost today. It's an activity that "gives" rather than "takes". It teaches you principles you can carry on to any area of your life. It helps you to see clearly and know yourself. Don't be fooled, not all martial art schools deal with personal development the way Fang Shen Do does. If you're not training in one of our schools yet you can get started here. If you are a member, keep it up, the best is yet to come. Master Yourself, Sifu Martin P.S. I'll have important announcements shortly, a great opportunity you won't want to miss. Labels: Direction, Fang Shen Do, Life Lessons, Personal Development
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It's Louse Time! Are you Dead or Alive?
If you're new to my list of focused, motivated, self- starters, Welcome. (if you're not new jump right away to today's lesson below) Every day I communicate to you the best ways to train and the kind of mindset it takes to get results either in your physical fitness or martial art training. Friday is always what I call: "Louse Time". Modeled after Bruce Lee's strategy in Enter the Dragon. You know that part where he's having tea with the government agent but he's disturbed by one of his students and Bruce Lee tells the agent: It's Louse Time! The agent replies with his British accent: "yes of course". Since I'm 6 years old that scene has always stuck with me and I'll be using that same strategy with YOU every week. Friday is where I share with you Life Lessons and Direction given to me by my dad (and Sifu) every Friday. Today's lesson is: Are you Dead or Alive? I try to be smooother in my approach in my other e-mails during the week but on Friday I feel like I can cut right to the chase. After all, it is Louse Time.
If you remember my original posts about the meaning of "louse time" it means to deliberately insult somebody's behavior and attitude.
Insult is a strong word, I would say the purpose of Louse Time is to shake your beliefs, get you to take action, break a bad habit, bring awareness to a disempowering behavior, or to force you to take massive action.
So I ask you the question again: Are you Dead or Alive?
As you might of noticed there are many dead people walking around among us.
Here's how I've been taught to categorize if someone is Dead:
-Someone who purposely stays in a dead end job, complacently stuck in a routine rut and doesn't create values.
-Someone who doesn't realize there is more to us than the physical chores of: eating, drinking, going to the bathroom, and sleeping.
-Someone who does not DO what they love, what they were born to do.
-Someone who doesn't read and continually educate himself/herself.
-Someone who allows external authorities to control their life, failing to make their own decisions.
-Someone who accepts mediocrity.
-Someone who fails to ask the question: "There has to be a better way" and misses the importance of making self-improvement a top priority.
-Someone who's too afraid of stepping out of their comfort zone.
-Someone who's given up on their childhood dream.
It all boils down to what kind of existence do you want?
Are you just going through the motions?
Are you continually postponing some of your dreams?
Be careful not to wait too long, waking up one day and saying: "I should of done this" and "I wish I could go back and do things differently".
No one should have to live with regret.
Choose to be Alive, take a chance and follow your heart.
Aim Higher,
Sifu Martin P.S Without a doubt martial arts training can stir things up for you, get an edge, learn how to become a martial artist, here's a great book to get you started: 10 Secrets Labels: Attitude, Fang Shen Do, Fang Shen Do Book, Life Lessons, Louse Time, Purpose
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Seize the Present Moment
Yesterday was a day of reflection for me. 15 years ago one my best friends died in a car crash, he was only 17 years old. He was a fellow practitioner and FSD instructor. Every January 7 th I'm reminded to seize the present moment. None of us signs any contract with life. He was so young with so much life in front of him, so many special moments could of been shared. I remember the first time I drove a car to the city all by myself was with him, he trusted me and I trusted him. Who knows what comes after death, I sometimes wonder if he watches me, one thing for certain, everything changed after that day. I am here. You are here. Anything you think about or dream about, START it. Some say I'll do it tomorrow or next week, who says there will be a next week? When your light extinguishes, it's too late. I never want to reach a point in my life where I say : I shoulda done this or I woulda done that... Take action NOW. Attack your goals with passion and commitment this year. Master Yourself, Sifu Martin Labels: Life Lessons
www.fangshendo.com
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It's Louse Time!
If you're new to my list of focused, motivated, self-starters, Welcome. (if you're not jump right away to today's lesson below) Every day I communicate to you the best ways to train and the kind of mindset it takes to get results either in your physical fitness or martial art training. Friday is always what I call: "Louse Time". Modeled after Bruce Lee's strategy in Enter the Dragon. You know that part where he's having tea with the government agent but he's disturbed by one of his students and Bruce Lee tells the agent: It's Louse Time! The agent replies with his british accent: "yes of course". Since I'm 6 years old that scene has always stuck with me and I'll be using that same strategy with You every week. Friday is where I share with you Life Lessons and Direction given to me by my dad (and Sifu) every Friday. Today's lesson was on Concentrated Action. Yesterday we did just that. I'm not sure about you but last winter was hard on us. One of our garage collapsed under the weight of the snow, our deck collapsed under the weight of the snow, one of our zip lines from our aerial park got crushed by an 80 year old red pine which snapped in half on it, our pool's outer wall ripped. Anything else? Isn't that enough? What are you supposed to do in times like these? Be resilient, take each problem and fix it. Back to my subject of Concentrated Action. Do you often find yourself trying to do too many things all at once that nothing gets done? Your day might start with you sitting down to continue work on a book you're writing, shortly after your cell phone rings then it's answering e-mail, then the delivery guy drops off a few packages, then you're off to a meeting. You never get in the flow of things. The trick is to schedule your work day in 1 hour blocks. 1 hour of writing. 1 hour of reading. 1 hour of phone calls, 1 hour of alone time (meditating or training) with no interruptions. If you structure your day this way you'll get more done in half the time. Yesterday was no different. Concentrated Action until 2:00 pm and most chores are done. Next week we'll start laying down the foundation for a new garage and getting the final preparations for Training Camp 2008 under way. I write about a 100 goals a year and I never get tired of crossing them off my list and pencil in DONE on top of them. All that is possible because of this simple concept: Concentrated Action. Master Yourself, Sifu Martin Labels: Bruce Lee, Life Lessons
www.fangshendo.com
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