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Over the years, I have garnered many nicknames from being deeply immersed in the culture of The Combat Arts. One of these nicknames was bestowed upon me by my students: “old school.” I don’t mind this title at all, even though it sometimes reminds me of how long I’ve been around. In fact, over the last 15 to 20 years, I’ve come to embrace it as a compliment. Being called “old school” reflects a set of skills, a level of discipline, and a depth of knowledge that, quite frankly, are becoming increasingly rare in the world today. It seems there has been a deterioration of these core life skills to the point where it is now uncommon when you meet a man who possesses them.
Consider what people now refer to as old-school gentlemanly qualities or the lost art of chivalry. The very understanding of these concepts has diminished over the years. Nowadays, when discussing chivalry, many assume it merely means holding the door open for someone occasionally. However, it encompasses so much more—respect, honor, integrity, and a genuine commitment to treating others with dignity. These values are integral to the warrior’s culture, philosophy, and practice.
I look around and see that not many of us left possess this kind of knowledge and these “lost” skills. One significant area where this is evident is the understanding of working with a mentor or placing oneself in an apprenticeship position. In the past, learning from a mentor was a deeply respected tradition, involving dedication, humility, and the willingness to learn and grow under the guidance of someone more experienced. This apprenticeship was about acquiring technical skills and internalizing values, principles, and a way of life. If you wanted to excel at something, you would seek a mentor to learn the necessary tools and skills of that trade or craft. This relationship was commonly known as an apprenticeship, with the understanding that you would commit to learning and working under their guidance for an extended period.
A “certificate” mentality drives today’s culture. People often find a course, pay for a three-day weekend, receive a piece of paper, and then move on with little chance of learning anything in depth. The concept of mentorship has been diluted in this environment. Many seek quick fixes and instant gratification, overlooking the profound benefits of a genuine mentor-apprentice relationship. Such relationships foster skill development and personal growth, character building, and the transmission of wisdom that cannot be found in textbooks or quick online tutorials. The transmission of knowledge in a mentor-apprentice relationship cannot be found in textbooks or quick online tutorials. This wisdom includes the mentor’s personal experiences, lessons learned from failures, and a nuanced understanding of the craft that only comes with time and practice. This kind of knowledge is invaluable and provides the apprentice with a rich foundation to build their expertise.
I recently began training with a mentor in navigation, which I consider one of the fundamental skills for men. My new teacher offers public courses as part of his business, and I initially took the beginner class. Unhappy with my performance, I asked if I could pay him for an additional day to review the material, hang out, and focus on developing the fundamentals more deeply. My request seemed unusual to him, and he was a bit taken aback, but he agreed. We scheduled another day to revisit the information and practice the skills under his guidance. I told him I’d like to continue this arrangement about once a month, compensating him for his time each session. I made it clear that I wasn’t in a hurry to “chase paper” and that my goal was to develop real, in-depth skills. Thus began a mentorship aimed at achieving mastery through dedicated practice.
You may read the above example and think, “I don’t have the time or the money to do something like this.” If that’s the case, your first mentorship should focus on entrepreneurship and financial literacy. I’ve learned that there are different levels of financial mindset and skill. One level will build a business that elevates you but still keeps you trapped in the system. The other will help you escape the system, providing you more time, freedom, and the support needed to create a robust self-education system. This system will elevate you to greater heights, allowing you to achieve, do, and be more.
A lot of this information and wisdom isn’t readily available. It often seems lost or hidden and is definitely not taught in today’s educational systems. You have to seek it out for yourself.
This mindset comes down to your Self-Leadership. Throwing down the gauntlet and taking responsibility for yourself, your actions, and your journey. It all starts and ends with you. Embracing Self-Leadership means understanding that you cannot rely on external factors or others to dictate your success or failure. It requires a deep sense of accountability and the courage to face challenges head-on. This mindset empowers you to take ownership of your life, acknowledging that your choices and efforts directly impact your outcomes. You are the driving force behind your progress, and your commitment to self-improvement sets the stage for what you can accomplish. This mindset is what I built the Warriors Path Program on top of, and it is what I coach with my clients.
Shift Your Perspective, Take the Action, Transform Your World.
~ Sifu Alan
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Alan Baker is renowned for his dual expertise in crafting tailored Defensive Tactics Programs and high-performance coaching. Catering specifically to law enforcement agencies, military organizations, and security firms, Alan designs training regimens that emphasize practical techniques, real-world adaptability, and scenario-based training. His approach enhances the capabilities and readiness of personnel in intense situations. Explore Alan’s tailored programs here.
Beyond mere tactics, Alan stands out as the paramount “Self Leadership” coach, adept at unlocking the vast potential within individuals. With a deep passion for mentoring professionals, entrepreneurs, and those on personal growth odysseys, he focuses on nurturing a mindset of excellence. Alan’s coaching hinges on practical strategies that bolster mental resilience, focus, and drive. Teaming up with Alan means embarking on a transformative path where mental barriers are dismantled, inherent strengths come to the fore, and your goals become within clear sight. His profound insights enhance performance and sculpt a mindset tailored for triumphant success.
To delve deeper into Alan’s mindset philosophy, peruse his enlightening collection of books And if you’re ready to amplify your journey under Alan’s tutelage, connect through his official website.