Philosophy & Attitude
Courtesy
Whist this is the first Tenet of TaeKwon-Do, the concept of Courtesy refers to respect for an indivduals belief systems, physical space, privacy, values, emotions and dignity. The ‘Self’ can be another individual or oneself, the latter often being neglected when we think about Courtesy. When we ask TaeKwon-Do students about examples of Courtesy, the reply is often ‘Saying Please’ or ‘Opening a Door for someone’ or ‘Not sparring with too heavy contact’. In reality, this is one sided thinking. Courtesy often refers to your interaction with the world as well as your repsonse to events and circumstance.
Integrity
This is a basic concept to do with a consistency or reliability of the individual. It relates to ones actions, beliefs, thoughts, actions, expectations and results. Integrity is also a sense of wholeness, honesty and truthfulness in regard to one’s motivations. The opposite of Integrity would be Hypocrisy. This contrasts because one part of a value system is in conflict with another.
How would this translate in TaeKwon-Do and in our everyday lives? To have Integrity would be to be consistent in the approach we have to our Training, as well as our fellow Students, Instructors and Beginners. Another aspect of Integrity is our application. Do we allow circustance, mood or whym to dictate our training? If so, then we have a lack of Integrity. Alternatively, if we are reliable, consistent and cosntant in the way we perform, especially with more fundamental techniques, in sepite of circumstance, then we are showing Integrity.
Motivation
The concept of Motivation is the shorter term, less enduring relation of ambition. ‘We have an ambition to become a Brain Surgeon, but we require the motivation to study for exams to get into University and complete the training.’ Motivation is the activation or energization of goal-oriented behavior.
Motivation can be intrinsic (from within) or extrinsic (from another person). Motivation may be rooted in the basic need to minimize physical pain and maximize psychological pleasure. It may also include specific needs such as eating and resting, or a desired goal, such as ‘Becoming a Red Belt’ or ‘Competing at a Tournament to win a medal’.
