One definition of humility is:

“Perceiving one’s place in the world, not according to one’s accomplishments, but according to the intrinsic value of all individuals”.

In other words, if no person is regarded better than any other (i.e. we all have our own equal value in the world) then there is nothing to be conceited about.

There is an old Chinese saying, “The stalk that carries the most grain, bows the lowest.” I consider this is very relevant to a good martial arts philosophy. With growing knowledge and  experience comes a more tolerant and humble attitude. 

Ego can be a major problem in the dojang. Students at YAKMA are asked to leave their egos at the door. When we train with a partner it is important we have their best interests at heart. We are not there to prove our superiority but to work together for our mutual benefit. Sparring is an example where students are reminded “it is not a war”, we do not win or lose, we work to improve technique, timing, strategy. We cannot give our mind to sparring while we are obsessed with winning or losing.

When people first start martial arts they are often unsure of themselves in the dojang and outside. After a while as students progress with their techniques their confidence will often increase. It is unfortunate but sometimes this can lead to arrogance and a sense of thinking they know it all. Inevitably if the student stays around long enough they discover new challenges or martial artists that remind them of their limited ability
This cycle is often repeated many times before the lesson is learnt.

Another way arrogance may be shown is by pretending to be humble. The “I know I’m great but look how humble I am” attitude. Or in the words of Jules Renard. “Be modest, it is the type of pride least likely to offend”.

It is often worth reminding ourselves that we are all beginners only some of us have been beginning longer than others.