Integrity
The quality of people being of sound moral principle and sincerity. In martial arts, one will learn the ways of integrity as he works his way up the belt system. To have a black belt is not to know the system of fighting, but to know all of the ways of a martial artist. To know the martial arts mind, body, and soul, you must study and practice the martial arts every day in at least one of those forms. How a martial artist learns the true art is also by living the art by being virtuous, focused, selfdisciplined, and having honor. By being in the martial arts, you represent an art form of many centuries and should conduct yourself as such. Here are a few ways you might be able to apply some of these tactics to your daily standards.
Be honest: One must be honest to others and especially to oneself. If you would not at least be true to yourself and your goals, how can you be true to anyone else? Do not cheat on your tests or your daily study and exercise goals. You are only cheating yourself, not anyone else. Choosing to do otherwise is only choosing unwisely and will reveal the truth in the end.
Be reliable: When you make a commitment to be somewhere at a designated time, make sure you are. Always follow through with your plans. If some emergency comes up, as sometimes situations are unavoidable, use a cell phone and make your arrangements and let someone know of your absence. This is still being reliable, if done only in an emergency.
Be sincere: This means that one should act the same outwardly as he is thinking on the inside, without deceitfulness. Always act in a genuine manner. Your character will always remain strong and every day will gain strength, and you will find you will have no fear of anyone. The truth has no fear of any questions.
Be earnest: This means to be in a serious and determined mode. Don’t be too playful about your life’s goals, but put your nose to the grindstone and get going. Put your physical and mental workouts first. Don’t let yourself or others down; it is harder to go back and make it up later. Just remember,