Would you wear a white belt again after been promoted as black belt in another martial art?
Why do I ask this question? Because I’ve witnessed many times in which an advanced martial artist from a different art refuses to wear a white belt during jiu-jitsu class!
In my opinion, if you don’t do one type of martial art, you aren’t a black belt in that martial art yet, even if you have already earned your black belt in something else. Just because you earn a black belt in one thing, doesn't make you a black belt in everything! For example, you may have some special knowledge in Tae-Kwon-Do, but that doesn't give you advanced level knowledge in judo, and vice-versa.
This is the case even when the art is “similar”. For example, judo and jiu-jitsu. Both are grappling, and in both you wear gi, but they are very different martial arts. The gis, the rules, and the mentality are all very different from each other.
Wearing a white belt demonstrates that you are humble, especially if you already earned a black belt in a different art. I believe it also helps you to open your mind/heart to learn new skills.
Many of those who refuse to wear a white belt in a new martial art are often very cocky, and are not willing to learn anything new. They are often just on the mat to show everyone that they are a “black belt”. I think this is not the right way to think and act.
The white belt mentality is important. Understanding that you can never know everything helps you to keep your mind open to absorb new techniques and skills.
Here are 7 important rules about maintaining a positive white belt mentality:
* White belts show up on time;
* White belts always listen;
* White belts are always willing to learn;
* White belts ask questions when they want to understand things better;
* White belts are passionate and fascinated about every single aspect of the class;
* White belts are motivated everyday because they know they will learn something new and special;
* White belts recognize their mistakes.
"White Belt Mindset = Motivation & Power of Will"
Just pay attention during the warm up... watch the white belts doing it and then take a look at the higher belts. Who has more desire to train & learn?
What are YOUR thoughts??