Learning how to learn is important.

First we need to allow our perspective to broaden, otherwise the filter we’re using to absorb knowledge is muddied by our past.

Second, we need to work on our ‘beginner’s mind’ so that we can accept what we’re being taught, practice it sufficiently without bias, before testing and challenging it to ensure that it’s viable.

Third, we mustn’t be scared to walk our own path because fashions and fads amuse the stupid and lead them astray but penetrating the underlying principles, ideas and truths in an art requires an unfettered, strong, individual mind.

Fourth, understanding the layers of learning in a system is paramount, otherwise we don’t absorb the basics and build on them step by step but wander around in the system like a distracted, lazy child never understanding their importance.

Fifth, using our mind to record and remember requires a systematic approach. We use key words and a memory palace in my system to have an efficient system of recall.

Finally, we have to internalise this knowledge and these skills until we can respond spontaneously to life’s challenges.

Then we transcend from someone who’s learning martial arts to being a martial artist.