Who is That Person in the Mirror?

When you look in the mirror, do you see the same person everyone else sees?

Many women have a very different picture of themselves vs. the image formed by strangers as demonstrated in the Dove Beauty Campaign. In this three minute advertorial, an FBI trained forensic artist sits behind a curtain and draws two portraits, one based on the subject’s self-description and the second based on a description by strangers. It’s amazing how widely disparate the results are, with the impression by strangers the more “realistic” image.

When you interact with people (school, work, PTA, not-for-profit, clubs, etc) what are your traits, what impression do you make, and what image do you want to create with your peers?

Donald Asher wrote “Who gets promoted who doesn’t and why: 10 things you’d better do if you want to get ahead” and St. Olaf college created a two page handout based on this book. Many of the concepts are learned in Taekwondo and are applicable to living a successful Black Belt life, such as...

• Attitude...be positive, look towards the future, be a problem-solver
• Think, plan, and prepare...be strategic, have a goal and focus
• Be a mentor and have mentors
• Respect
• Be a Team Player

What about your children, what image do they project? Do you worry about them being bullied?

Research shows that bullies choose their victims wisely, targeting children who are unpopular, not well-liked by their peers, socially awkward, easily taken advantage of or easily controlled. What can you do to help bullyproof your child?

Building confidence is a big factor. Just acting brave is sometimes enough...standing tall, being brave sends the message, “don’t mess with me.”

Building self-respect will make your child feel good about themselves and it is necessary to “develop the strength of character to love and appreciate one’s self; accept yourself and show acceptance of others”.

In Taekwondo, the best fight is the fight that never happens. In many cases, the fight that doesn’t happen occurs because the trained martial artist projects self-confidence, are actively seeking ways to avoid a confrontation and yet prepared to defend themselves, and is confident in their abilities.

A martial artist makes a positive first impression. Being confident, truly knowing yourself, and projecting this confidence is important for success; for you and your children.

If you would like more information about our UMAC children’s program please visit me at my school. And please read my weekly blog every Monday providing insights on "Living a Black Belt Life" and share this with your friends and family.

Thank You!