Applying Karate Learning To Business

When I started Shotokan Karate, I was convinced that I would be  an expert within a very short space of time. No doubt this illusion eminated from being a child of the 80′s and thus susceptable to the teachings of one Mr. Miyagi!!

I learnt VERY quickly that I knew nothing and that it was going to take time, patience and discipline to master not only the physical but also mental aspects of being a proficient Karate practitioner.

While studying Karate, the things that I have become aware of are include;

• Unless you keep practicing, you won’t get any better.
• There is always someone out there who is stronger or faster.
• Keep practicing on the basics otherwise you won’t be any good at the advanced stuff.
• You have to believe in yourself to progress and be supported by a group of mentors who have “been there and done that”.
• Being aware of your competition.
• You never stop learning.

I am very fortunate to be taught by a highly competent, supportive and forgiving group of Sensei who are there to steer me along the way and correct my mistakes (of which there are many!).

Business is the same.

Those of us who have established our own enterprises recently or indeed have been running them for a number of years inevitably have gone through or are going through the pain of realisation that the business world is an unforgiving place. If a bad mistake is made, then going out of business is a real possibility.

So what can you do?

Get yourself a Sensei a.k.a. a business mentor.

For a business entrepeneur, the need for mentoring is paramount – even if you think you are a seasoned veteran. The mentor is someone who has a specific set of experiences that they are willing to share (usually for free!). Think about your past acquaintances – do any of them have skills that you could use?

What happens if I can’t find a mentor?

In Ireland, we are fortunate to have most excellent enterprise boards who can help in this regard. Whereever you originate, there will be government or other willing participants who can help you in this area.

Watch your competition!!

It is amazing what information is out there if you know where to look. As a collegue of mine once said.. “Google is your friend”. Just make sure you can sift through the chaff to get the nuggets of information that you are looking for.

Review your products and services.

There is always things that you can do better. Are you getting the basics right? Are you still delivering what your market wants/needs? Do you still understand your market and how to sell to them?

Find a niche if you cannot compete at every level.

I enjoy Kata (set form movements) over Kumite (sparring) and, while not ignoring the requirement to be able to spar, am constantly focussed on improving my Kata. Is there something that your business has that no other business does or how can you do it better than anyone else?

Do not become complacent even if you are successful.

Listen and learn as you go and your business will continue to grow. Ignore what is going on around you at your peril!