Traits Developed at through Martial Arts for Leadership

By Deb Denny, red belt, CTI Black Belt Club Member

Confidence is a necessary trait for a good leader to instill that same value in people who follow. It is more secure to follow someone acting confidently, as outcomes will be more secure. As a confident leader forges ahead into unknown territory, the leader instills a sense of “I can do this” in their followers, who then can solve any problems together.

Humility is a great trait for a leader, one who is willing to approach new situations humbly. A prideful, boastful person will actually repel followers.  A leader has to be able to inspire others to follow.

Accountability is the ability to say “the buck stops here.” A person who can take responsibility for all decisions made will be more popular than one who is always looking for someone else to blame. People will be more willing to take chances under such a leader because they inspire everyone to try to the best of their ability. When failure occurs, it is not a negative but another step on the road to success.

Passion is one of the best qualities a leader can have. If a person is not heartfelt about what they are doing, what is the attraction for your followers. Igniting your passion is contagious and will incite those around you to do their best with energy and excitement.

Integrity is really the watch word for anyone in life. If you lie, cheat, and steal, no victories are yours to savor. Developing an honest reputation takes a long-time, one small error will undo it quickly. People are then quick to disassociate themselves with a leader lacking in integrity.

CTI martial arts students must be leaders in their community. The benefits of martial arts program is designed to develop leaders who excel in everything they do.  The program depends on strong leaders who attract students, who emulate and become leaders themselves. Leadership programs qualities learned in MSK Taekwondo will naturally extend throughout your life, helping you to succeed and attain goals.  The tenets of MSK Taekwondo courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and an indomitable spirit learned in class naturally helps you develop personal characteristics that translate into a strong leader.  These characteristics naturally extend throughout all aspects of your community life.

Society today tends to have an abundance of people who do not want to work for any goals, everything is deserved and to be handed over to them. CTI student leaders are necessary to help inspire people to ignite their passions and accomplish goals in the world.  Actions of leaders reverberate outward in the universe. One leader who can inspire one person to better themselves will then inspire another, and then another. Imagine a society where everyone is working passionately to discover their potential. The possibilities are endless. This is one reason I really enjoy the leadership program offered at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute.