Engagement Over Correction

The success of any student does not rely on their natural skill or ability to apply a lesson. These things can be learned and developed over time. The primary factor is their engagement in their classes and in their success in Kung Fu.

As instructors, this has to be our mandate. Engage, don’t correct. Corrections are critical for the progress of their skill, however they are worthless and inefficient if the student is not engaged. Without engagement, they will not hear their instructors and will not feel compelled to apply the knowledge they are given. Corrections are meaningless in this situation.

Our number one job, and the number one thing on our minds each and every time we step on the mats as an instructor, is to connect with each student. Engage them, encourage them, make them feel safe and happy to be there. They need to know that their presence makes us happy, that we want them there. If we can do this for each student, child or adult, they will become receptive to our lessons.

Corrections should be a byproduct of this engagement. They should be given in the spirit of encouragement, we want them to be the best version of themselves they can be, NOT that they can do better. If what we are thinking is that they should be or need to be better, then we will portray the feeling that they are not good enough. That feeling is a potential cancer to anyone.

It doesn’t matter how quickly they progress or what challenges they currently face. Each and every hiccup is potentially a moment that will make them an even greater martial artist, IF we can help them through the slumps. If not, then it will spell the end of their time in our school. Reprimanding a student for a challenge they are facing is a sure way to push them out the door. Don’t kid yourself, each time a student pushes back or rolls their eyes is a challenge they are moving through. It is our job to help them reach the other side and be better for it.