I have been incredibly fortunate to train with and be an instructor under Guru Dan Inosanto since the mid-90s. Sifu Dan is a true seeker of knowledge, delving deeply into martial arts and its history and cultural background. He has trained in multiple martial arts and continues to learn and seek new knowledge to enhance his training. For him, martial arts is a lifestyle and his life’s work.
One thing that never ceases to amaze me about Sifu Inosanto is his incredible vitality and dedication to movement, even at 88. Every time I get to spend time with him, I am inspired by his drive and passion. He has made physical activity a daily goal, embodying the philosophy of perpetual motion.
Over the years, Sifu Inosanto has shared invaluable advice with me. He has emphasized the importance of adapting and adjusting both in training and in life. He often reminded me that setbacks and injuries are sometimes inevitable, but the key is to keep moving, even when movement seems limited.
Sifu Inosanto taught me that it’s crucial to figure out what you can do and focus on that, no matter how small it may seem. “Do what you can with what you have at the moment,” he would say. This principle of resilience and adaptability has profoundly influenced my approach to martial arts and life. His wisdom underscores the importance of persistence and finding ways to keep progressing, regardless of obstacles. This example makes me think of another person who has motivated me over the years and said something similar. Theodore Roosevelt said, “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.”
I think this mindset is a powerful mental tool that we can apply to multiple areas of life, not just in training but in all aspects. Adopting the philosophy of focusing on what you can do, no matter how small, can make a significant difference.
“Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.”
Theodore Roosevelt:
I frequently receive emails from people who have suffered setbacks and feel paralyzed, believing they can do nothing. To all of them, I say: figure out what small thing you can do and take action on it. This approach can transform feelings of helplessness into empowerment.
Taking even a tiny step forward often creates momentum. It opens up more possibilities and pathways that were not visible before. This principle applies universally—whether you’re dealing with a physical injury, a career setback, a personal challenge, or any other obstacle in life.
By focusing on what you can do rather than what you can’t, you shift your mindset from limitation to possibility. This proactive approach helps you overcome immediate challenges and builds resilience and confidence for future obstacles. The initial small movements pave the way for larger strides, leading to continual growth and progress.
“Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time.”
Vince Lombardi:
In essence, this mindset is about embracing change, adapting to circumstances, and persistently moving forward, no matter the size of the steps. It’s a life philosophy that encourages continuous improvement and the relentless pursuit of progress.
Overcoming procrastination
Overcoming procrastination is a common challenge many people face, often stemming from feeling overwhelmed by the magnitude of tasks, as we mentioned earlier, especially if you are dealing with some physical setbacks. The “do what you can” mindset is an effective tool for overcoming procrastination, as it encourages breaking down large tasks into smaller, manageable steps and taking immediate action. One of the key aspects of this mindset is the ability to deconstruct large, daunting tasks into smaller, more achievable actions. When a task seems too big or too complex, it’s easy to put it off indefinitely. However, by breaking it down into bite-sized pieces, you can make the task seem less intimidating and more manageable, helping you start making progress without feeling overwhelmed. So if, in your mind’s eye, your task feels too big to tackle, you can apply the same wisdom to make the mental shift needed to take action.
Another essential life skill is to maintain the machine—your body. I preach this often, emphasizing that it’s one of the first things you need to incorporate into your self-leadership plan. Investing time in your physical education is crucial. Thisinvolves engaging in activities that train and strengthen your body and exercises that loosen and enhance flexibility.
Your physical condition directly impacts your ability to influence the world and achieve your overall life goals. When your body is in peak condition, it serves as a powerful tool, enabling you to perform better in all aspects of life. A strong,well-maintained body enhances physical performance and boosts mental clarity, emotional resilience, and overall well-being.
Sharpening your primary tool—your body—should be a priority. This involves regular exercise, strength training, flexibility routines, and a balanced diet. Physical fitness is not just about aesthetics but functionality and longevity. A well-maintained body is more resistant to illnesses, recovers faster from injuries, and handles stress more effectively.
Moreover, physical fitness contributes to a positive mindset. The discipline required for regular exercise translates into other areas of life, fostering a sense of achievement and boosting self-esteem. Feeling good physically positively influences your mental and emotional state, creating a holistic approach to self-improvement.
Incorporating physical education into your daily routine can be simple yet impactful. Whether it’s a morning run, a yoga session, weight training, or even a daily walk, these activities enhance your body’s condition. The key is consistency and commitment to maintaining your physical tool.
Maintaining your body is a fundamental aspect of self-leadership. By prioritizing physical education and regularly engaging in activities that strengthen and loosen your body, you enhance your ability to achieve your life goals. A well-conditioned body is the foundation upon which all other achievements are built, impacting everything you do in life. Prioritizing your physical health will empower you to excel in all areas, creating a ripple effect of positive outcomes in your personal and professional endeavors.
Everything starts with self-leadership. This foundational principle is one of the key reasons I created the Warriors Path Program. Self-leadership is the ability to intentionally influence your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions to achieve your goals. It’s about taking responsibility for your actions and decisions, forming the bedrock of personal and professional success.
I developed the Warriors Path Program to ignite and cultivate this vital skill in individuals. The Warriors Path empowers you to take charge of your own life, setting the stage for continuous growth and achievement. It provides the tools, strategies, and support necessary to enhance your ability to lead yourself effectively.
The program is structured to help you understand and harness the power of self-leadership in various aspects of your life. Through the Warriors Path, you will learn to set clear, actionable goals and develop the discipline and resilience needed to pursue them.
Shift Your Perspective, Take the Action, Transform Your World.
~ Sifu Alan
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.