When you decide to become a school owner you really must decide to become a businessman – entrepreneur. You no longer are just a martial artist, competitor, teacher. You now must wear lots of hats that may be totally unfamiliar, uncomfortable, or just that you are not very good at – at least initially.

One of the biggest failings that martial artists have in general is an EGO that engulfs everything else.

Until you let go of how great you think you are – and, really start learning from anyone who has something to teach – you will ALWAYS languish in mediocrity.

To separate your ego from your business consider the following:

Anytime you are in the company of other school owners – or other business owners learn to SHUT UP. Ask questions, listen, find out what they do well and figure out “how they think” about things.
When you ask someone for advice – ask a question, listen to the answer, then ask them what questions you should be asking. Avoid at all costs telling them everything about yourself – by the time you get done they just may be out of time – or out of patience!
Create your school to provide a nice first impression for intros and a quality learning environment for your students. Not to impress other martial artists, other school owners, or your friends and family.
Forget what you think you know – and, become a real student of every aspect of running your business.
Don’t be afraid to look dumb or ignorant. Ask questions. Seek new information. Find people who are better at EVERYTHING than you are and be a humble student.
Remember that at your school you are an EDUCATOR – not an ATHLETE or COMPETITOR. Never try to compete with your students. Make your goal that while you maintain your own skills you teach them to surpass you in any way possible.
Don’t pretend to know all the answers. Let your Black Belts, Staff, and Students contribute their ideas and expertise – you’ll be way ahead.
Take the blame for failures yourself – share the credit for success with everyone