Lead Yourself First

Leadership isn’t something that begins when you earn a black belt, receive a title, or find yourself in a position of authority.

   Leadership begins with how you lead yourself.

At KMMA, the Foundational Blackbelt Superpowers help us develop the qualities we need to lead ourselves and, ultimately, lead others.

• Focus
• Respect 
• Discipline
• Confidence
• Gratitude
• Vision

These are more than words.

They are attributes we cultivate every day through our choices, our actions, and the way we face life’s challenges. As we strengthen these qualities within ourselves, we become better equipped to lead with purpose, set the example, and positively influence those around us.

This week, Sensei Allie Peters presents our Lesson of the Week, “Lead Yourself First.” Click on the photo below to watch this week’s lesson

Do you practice discipline when you’d rather give up? Do you show respect when someone disagrees with you? Do you maintain your focus when things get difficult? Do you take responsibility for your mistakes instead of making excuses?

These are the moments when self-leadership is developed.

Martial arts gives us a place to practice these qualities, but their real value is seen in how we live beyond the dojo—in our homes, our schools, our workplaces, and our relationships.

This week, as you train, remember that you’re developing more than martial arts skills.

You’re building the character and habits that will help you lead yourself and, eventually, become someone others can look up to.

Before you can effectively lead others, you must first learn to lead yourself.