Brannon Beliso

2011-12-21T01:53:00.001-08:00

I want versus what I need can often be a blurred line. Clarity comes from the true understanding of recognizing those needs.

2011-12-19T08:34:00.001-08:00

Then commit to yourself to do at least one thing every day toward reaching that goal.

2011-12-19T08:32:00.001-08:00

Write it down, say it out loud and visualize what achieving that goal would look like.

2011-12-19T08:31:00.001-08:00

Elevate your game past complacency by honestly asking yourself how can I do better and be a better person today?

Poem 2

2011-10-20T00:28:00.001-07:00

These four walls

Are not square.

They melt and mold

Into a rolling field

Of green grass,

Sprinkled with

Yellow flowers.

A grand meadow

That goes on forever.

I reach out trying

To take it all in

And vainly I accept

My humility in

All its grandness.

Running in all directions,

I feel euphoric,

Even disoriented,

By the power of

Mother Earth.

Looking out

I am pleased and

Peaceful with

The symmetry

I share with

This moment...

Poem 1

2011-10-20T00:25:00.007-07:00

Taste the ink

Melting into

The concrete

Watching the

Cherub faced boy

As you take him home.

The hall of juveniles

Have not yet tainted

His innocence.

It’s almost sad

To see him go

Before his time

Of passage into

The streets of the ghetto.

Like a fairy you

Sprinkle pixie dust

Upon his brow

Giving him the

Imagination to fly

High above the

Green walls that

Held the unwanted

Child prisoner.

Watching as you walk off

With his tiny hand in yours,

He takes four steps

To your every two,

One can hear

The boy’s heart filled

With fear and excitement

At the story that is about to begin...

Poem 1

2011-10-20T00:25:00.001-07:00

Taste the ink

Melting into

The concrete

Watching the

Cherub faced boy

As you take him home.

The hall of juveniles

Have not yet tainted

His innocence.

It’s almost sad

To see him go

Before his time

Of passage into

The streets of the ghetto.

Like a fairy you

Sprinkle pixie dust

Upon his brow

Giving him the

Imagination to fly

High above the

Green walls that

Held the unwanted

Child prisoner.

Watching as you walk off

With his tiny hand in yours,

He takes four steps

To your every two,

One can hear

The boy’s heart filled

With fear and excitement

At the story that is about to begin...

Facing Fear with Faith

2011-10-04T10:51:00.000-07:00

Fear is a very real emotion. All of us are afraid of something. I am sometimes afraid of not being able to provide for my family. I am afraid of getting ill and not being able to work. I am afraid of losing the people I love so dearly. I am afraid of not being able to live up to the standards I teach in every class.

What gives me peace and the ability to face my fears on a daily basis is my faith. For me that faith is God. God teaches me I am right where I am suppose to be. I believe “God never gives me more than I can handle.” With God, I have the strength to face all my fears and strive to be a better person. For me, it is an act of true faith to believe with God, everything will be alright. When my fears get the best of me, I surrender them up to God. I believe where I can’t, God can.

I choose to embrace my fears like a best friend. I hold them close to my heart with acceptance and love. This helps me overcome my fears. I believe it is the path to serenity.

Lastly, I accept it is okay to be afraid. What is not okay, is to let my fears stop me from
fulfilling my dreams and creating the best life possible for myself, my family and the people I serve at One Martial Arts.

So I live everyday with my fears. I also live with the faith, hope and belief that with God’s
love and mercy, I can overcome those fears and fulfill all of my dreams.

2011-08-16T10:46:00.001-07:00

Its a choice to stay in a funk but some days are more challenging than others. So you've got to show up, suit up and participate in this thing called life.

2011-08-16T10:44:00.001-07:00

Some days you have to fake it until you make it. Smile though your heart is crying and know it can't rain all the time.

2011-08-14T10:59:00.001-07:00

I witnessed this love at a service for a friend who passed away. I saw the courage she gave everyone to see every minute as a miracle.

2011-08-14T10:57:00.001-07:00

The true power of love lives in gratitude, humility, patience and compassion just to name a few.

2011-08-11T15:40:00.001-07:00

Mastering your mindset is a life long journey. Sometimes it is a battle. It all begins with gratitude.

Write Everything Down

2011-08-01T17:52:00.001-07:00

I encourage those of you in business to write everything down. This will give you the information needed to create systems to run your business optimally.

Don't let the word systems put you off. Your business is unique because it is your vision and passion. Creating systems unique unto your business will simply allow you to run it optimally. It will give you a method to train others to do what you do. So write down everything you do in your business and I do mean everything.

Even the way the bathroom should be kept should be written down. Creating these systems will allow you the freedom to work on your business instead of in it.

Summer's Over

2011-07-31T23:47:00.001-07:00

Summer’s almost over and it’s back to school for our children with the hope for a year full of learning and growth.
   Our heartfelt passion and commitment at One Martial Arts is to the life-skills education that provide your children with the tools to learn and do well at school.
   We believe the martial arts and the life-skills it offers should go hand-in-hand with their education to help them be their best.
   Much like attending school, we strive to instill in all our parents that studying the martial arts should be just as important. Every study has proven children who study martial arts get better grades. They learn and practice focus, which is the key to being a good learner, in every class they attend.
   So as you plan your child’s schedule for this year, we hope their martial arts training is right up their with their schooling.
   I say this from experience. I’ve studied the martial arts since kindergarten. It has given me the discipline and focus to excel at every grade. It has taught me to never give up when learning was challenging. The martial arts has provided me with good work ethics and study habits. It has taught me integrity, confidence, respect and so much more.
   I thank all of our parents for recognizing the values that we at One Martial Arts holds dearly to our hearts. I applaud you for choosing to integrate the martial arts into the fabric of your child’s everyday life.
   I believe it is one of the best investments you can make for your child’s development. I know one day when they are attending a Stanford, Cornell or USC, we’ll be able to look back and thank each other for the gift we shared that was a combination of good parenting, a quality education and the martial arts.

Much respect,

Professor Brannon Beliso

A Simple Thought

2011-04-18T00:08:00.001-07:00

Everything I believe begins with a simple thought. There's nothing anyone can give you that you can't give yourself. Remember the true journey is inward not outward. We’re conditioned in a Western culture to reach externally for gratification often in the form of a bigger car; a bigger house; a different relationship or more money. Most of this is based upon instant gratification. It’s short-term and has no real lasting value or menaing. The challenge of the journey inward is that it can often be a lonely one. It challenges us to pull back our own covers and see ourselves for who we really are without smoke and mirrors. It's a humble journey but worth every discovery along the way...

Review Month

2011-03-01T01:30:00.001-08:00

NEXT MONTH is review and testing month for Youth Karate and Adult Martial Arts. The featured weapon will be the Bo Staff. Students are required to purchase this from the pro shop. As always, during review and testing month there will be no sparring. We will utilize every moment of valuable time to review all requirements and have fun with the featured weapon. This change up in our curriculum schedule offers us a reward for all the hard work and a chance to reflect on how much we have learned. We look forward to being impressed by your skills during testing. I am sure you will feel confident knowing you have practiced hard and properly prepared. Attend regular practices, workshops, schedule private lessons and practice fifteen minutes everyday. Good luck!

My "Sign Up For Camp" Blog Interview

2011-02-27T21:42:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share this blog interview I just did for all you parents looking for camps for your kids.

http://blog.signupforcamp.com/2011/02/27/one-martial-arts-day-camp-brannon-beliso/

Waiting For Superman

2011-02-18T01:28:00.000-08:00

I just finished watching the documentary, "Waiting for Superman." It reminded me that the bottom line to quality education is that it must be about best serving the children and not the adults who teach them. The unions that protect teachers who have no business teaching is irresponsible. This policy of "tenure" where it is almost impossible for teachers to ever lose their job, after a a two year probation period, is an even bigger crime.

I have always viewed teaching children as an honor, privilege and great responsibility. It has never been about me. I am truly here to serve the community and it's children by providing the best martial arts, character development and life skills education programs possible. I must constantly review my curriculum to make sure it is keeping pace with the changes and demands of our culture.

The resistance of many public school bureaucracies to open their eyes to the success of the many innovative charter schools is purely fear based. These type of progressive schools that are rooted in no excuses and a sense of accountability for all the students as well as the teachers should be applauded.

This film has inspired me to rededicate myself to a higher level of mastering the noble craft of educating. I am humbled to be called "teacher."

Love Is All That Matters

2011-02-11T01:43:00.000-08:00

Love is all that matters. At the end of the day and when all the cards have been counted, love is the greatest reason for our being. We live for it, long for it and thrive like a plant does to water with it.

Love is not a Hallmark greeting card. It's all inclusive, warts and all. Sometimes it's pure joy and bliss. At other moments it haunts me like a Billie Holiday song.

Love pulls back our covers and leaves us vulnerable. It challenges us to give more than we ever thought possible.

Love will often hurt you and leave you empty and broken. It offers no guarantees but is worth every breath it gives you.

Love is the smile in my two year old's eye when he hugs me like I am his best pal. It's also the moments I struggle to teach him right from wrong and have to deal with his disappointment in me for doing so.

I choose to live in love and all it offers me. On the best days, love fills every part of my being. At it's darkest, love provides me shelter from the storm.

I was wrote in a song, "If love is a gift, then you're the best present in the world, when I'm with you every day is just like Christmas."

Love is truly the greatest gift we've been offered. And would'nt it be great if every day was really Christmas?

Tiger Mom

2011-02-04T09:52:00.000-08:00

I recently read about the woman labeled "Tiger Mom." She has many parents in an uproar on how she has chosen to parent her daughter.

The question comes down to, "Is she on to something?" This mom has gotten amazing results from her daughter. She has excelled in many areas of her life and is on a path to growing up to be a successful person with the tools to create a quality life.

I think this mom's actions has pulled back the covers on many parents in America and have them questioning if the way they parent their children is truly serving their best interests.

For those of you parents who are questioning yourself, I applaud you. It shows your genuine desire to be a better parent.

I will be the first to say, as a parent, I can always do and be better. I recognize I am the parent and often have to make the tough choices for the benefit of my child's development and overall well-being.

I am not afraid to parent. I understand my child does not have the maturity and wisdom to know that not brushing his teeth or watching TV all day is bad for him.

As the saying goes, "One day when you're older, you'll understand." I remember that every time I correct my child to his amazement and young disapproval.

So do I think "Tiger Mom" is an extreme parent? Not if she gets results and her daughter is singing praises for her mom.

Growing up, my father challenged me on a daily on a basis to do and be a better martial artist. He trained me hard and in many people's eyes it was extreme. It won me over 100 tournaments championships. I've owned two successful businesses; have a blessed life; and continue to challenge myself to do and be better thanks to my father and his parenting.

So in defense of the "Tiger Mom," I believe we should simply ask ourselves, "Is our parenting truly serving the needs of our children? Is it helping them to be the best person we know they can be?"

I ask you to ask yourself this question because I believe if most children were asked what they wanted, it would be a big bag of chips and cartoons all day.

Personally, I take my hat off to the so-called "Tiger Mom." For me, I will continue to parent my son with love, discipline, patience, acceptance, humility and the genuine desire to give him every tool possible to help him have a quality life.

Poppi loves you Brayden

It Can't rain All The Time

2011-01-10T00:55:00.001-08:00

I opened my computer a couple of days into the New Year to put the finishing touches on an article I had already invested about 40 hours into writing. To my panic, it was gone. I had my buddy, an IT specialist, use recovery software to try to find it but it was nowhere to be found. Needless to say, I was angry, shock and disheartened.

You ask how could this happen? Well, I had four teenagers, my sister and a longtime friend staying at my house for the holidays. Many people had access to and were using my computer. Someone must have accidentally saved over it.

I shared this incident with a good friend and his wife while having dinner at their house. She offered me her Buddhist flavored opinion, “Then you will write a better article.”

At the time, I was numb to what she has said, still consumed by the incident. I was simply in the need to be mad and blame someone for my misfortune.

I got home later that night and opened my computer. I spent 30 minutes making another attempt to search for the lost article.

I gave up the search and then chose to open a blank page in word and simply write. I wrote and wrote with the conviction of a child who had lost his mother and sought to be held.

By 3am, I had laid down about 1,400 words. It was not only better than anything I had previously written, it was the best thing I had ever wrote.

The moral of this story? So much of life is beyond our control. When life gives you lemons you make lemonade. I had no choice that the article had been accidentally saved over but I had the choice on how I was going to deal with it. I had the choice to believe everything happens for a reason and sometimes acceptance is the most humble action I can take. Acceptance allows me to stand still in a storm and know in my heart, “This too shall pass.”

I then saw the tragedy in Tucson, Arizona on the news. I was so sad. A storm was raging in Tucson. My lost article and small triumph seemed so small. I was so embarrassed by my voiced complaint to my friend and his wife over dinner. Who was I to cry over something so trivial when something so awful had just taken place?

So I pray. I pray for those who tragically lost their lives, especially 9 year old, Christina Green. I pray for their families for their pain and loss.

I pray for Representative Giffords for her full recovery. I pray for all the victims shot and recovering in the hospital.

Most of all, I pray nobody gives up on the good that still lives in this world. Hold your children close and know God is alive. Look out at the morning sun, and feel the angels welcoming you to a new day. Count every blessing, no matter how small, and know Jesus Christ loves you.

Know in your heart that the darkness will always give way to the light.

And as the late great Brandon Lee said in the movie, “The Crow,” “It can’t rain all the time.”

Happy New Year

2010-12-29T22:10:00.001-08:00

A new beginning. A chance to start all over. Close the door of the past year and open the new one with the hope of a child. Take every lesson learned and create a foundation of wisdom to build upon for a prosperous new year. Humbly accept mistakes are lessons waiting to be learned and continue to make them in 2011. Be mindful not to make the same mistakes over and over because this is the true definition of “insanity.” Dream big or don’t dream at all. Time is worth more than money. Spend more time with those we love, this is the key to a quality life. Dedicate yourself to the pursuit of “Life balance”. Eat better, manage stress better and exercise diligently. Honestly acknowledge, “Without health, you have nothing”. The three keys to success is; “Sustained passion, continued learning and constant effort.” Never forget you were once a child. Children are our greatest teachers. Take their advice and play as much as possible. Practice an “Attitude of Gratitude.” Always view your cup as “Half full instead of half empty.” Let your mantra be, “In order to deserve the best, you have to be your best”. Life is a series of missed opportunities, so don’t miss out. Learn at least one new thing everyday. Remember, “In order to improve upon yourself, you must love and embrace every part yourself, good and bad, with genuine honesty.” It is only with this single act of humility can we really make changes. Take time to reflect, turning inward and embracing the silence. This is where the answers you truly seek, live and breathe. Above all, surrender your life and will over to God. It is only through God’s love and mercy that we find true peace.

Happy New Year.

Professor Brannon Beliso

The Past Month

2010-12-13T10:06:00.000-08:00

The past month has been a whirlwind of activities. I apologize for not being here with you.

I had an amazing Thanksgiving. I made the best turkey ever. I combined two recipes I found at Food Network. I brined the bird for three days in an ice chest the refrigerator. I put water, salt, brown sugar, bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, sage, oranges and lemons in my brine. I cooked it at 325 degrees and rubbed it down with herbs and olive oil. I put butter and cloves of garlic between the skin and the breast. I cooked it breast down for the first hour and turned it over for the remaining time. The key is to use a meat thermometer. The thigh should read about 180 degrees and the breast 170. Some say it could read ten degrees less and still be cooked all the way. I share this you becasue it was the most juicy tender turkey I have ever made. Everyone was amazed and so was I.

The company that I shared this bird and the Thanksgiving holiday with was even better.

The following day was met with a two hour extreme kickboxing workout. I led a class that made up a part of the community of One Martial Arts. I looked around the room at the parents, students and first-time friends working off the bird and being their best. I smiled in gratitude for being able to do what I love to do so much and helping people recognize their unlimited potential.

I was then off to Florida for a speaking engagement at the Martial Arts School Owners Mega Training Convention. I was grateful to share with so many school owners and fellow martial artists. I learned so much from all the speakers as well. The true martial arts spirit was felt by all. I was humbled to be a part of such an awesome group.

Then my family and I were off to Disneyland in Anaheim. It was all done up for the Christmas Holiday. We stayed at the Grand Californian, the Disney resort that connects to the park. It reminded me of the Awahnee Lodge in Yosemite, only on a much grander scale. It was my first vacation with my 32 year son Brannon, my wife Kim and 2 year old son Brayden. Just being together with all of them, meant so much to me.

Disneyland reminds me alot of my sister Lisa, who passed away some ten years ago. She loved the magic of the park and I felt her presence the time we spent there, especially during the parade. She loved Main St and watching the parade so much. I still miss her every day.

I came back filled with gratitude for God's love and blessings in my life. Even the flight delays and travel challenges couldn't put a damper on the humility that filled my heart.

We all have so much to be grateful for. I encourage you to find even the smallest reason to be grateful and the endless possibilities will fill yours and everyone's life you touch.

Happy Holidays,

Professor Brannon Beliso

Gratitude Guest Blog for LLP

2010-11-16T01:19:00.001-08:00

Gratitude is the ability to be thankful for everything in your life.
Be it a breath you take or to a new day you wake, give thanks in quiet meditation.
Breathe in and say, “I am breathing.” Breathe out and say “I am grateful.”

Be grateful for each moment you’ve been blessed with by being fully present for the present is a gift.
Create a grateful mindset by saying, “My cup is neither half-full nor half-empty, my cup flows over.”
Practice an attitude of gratitude by always acting in a positive manner.

Plant the seeds of gratitude in your children by having them always say “Please” and “Thank you.”
Teach your children to earn so they learn to appreciate what they have versus what they have not.
Lead by example showing your children your gratitude through appropriate praise and lots of hugs.
Embrace life challenges with the gratitude that it will help you learn, grow and become a better person.
Be grateful for every tear you shed because it lets you know you’re truly alive.
Smile as you walk through the rain acknowledging it eventually gives way to the light of a new day.
Show your appreciation for those you love by giving of yourself completely without condition.
Give generously with thanks knowing it builds community and just feels plain good to give.
Celebrate yours and everyone else’s victories and challenges with humility for it is the path to gratitude.
Above all, show your gratitude by giving thanks and praise to a higher power.

Little Pickle Press: Gratitude

2010-11-10T15:16:00.000-08:00

Little Pickle Press: Gratitude: "by Brannon Beliso Gratitude is the ability to be thankful for everything in your life. Be it a breath you take or to a new day you wake, g..."

Surrender

2010-11-05T00:29:00.001-07:00

I believe in order to find balance and peace I must surrender to the path of the universe. What causes me the most pain and stress is when I resist life’s unpredictable journey. I must accept I am not in control of people, places, and things. I know this is easier said than done. Why is it that we don’t try to control the seasons as they pass us each year? We can accept this as beyond our control. So why don’t we look at the rest of our lives this way? I believe we cling to the illusion that we are actually in control of life. I humbly accept that I am not in control. I do believe I am responsible for how I choose to perceive, embrace, and process this lack of control. Bruce Lee once said, “You must be like water. When water is in a tea cup, it becomes the tea cup. When water is in a bowl, it becomes the bowl. You must be fluid like water”. This philosophy is simple but very hard to apply. Many of us are very rigid in our conditioned thinking, to the point that we are not teachable. This thinking is like stagnant water, which is poisonous and of no use. The key to the path of surrender is accepting life on life’s terms. John Lennon once said, “Life is something that happens while we are busy making other plans”. Another key element is letting go of self-will and trusting a higher will. How fearful I must be to egotistically think the universe revolves around me. The third key is humility. I strive to be humble by acting out of love and not fear. It is at this place of love that I am balanced, complete within myself, and at peace amidst the chaos of life.

Contemplation

2010-11-02T01:10:00.001-07:00

Each month I contemplate what to write in my Professor’s Corner. I ask God to allow me to be an instrument of his will, offering words to help us all become better people and have the best quality life possible. I realize I must humbly accept my inadequacies, as a human. I must be perfect in my imperfections. I must hold myself accountable for my actions with honesty. It is only through my mistakes that I can learn and grow as a person. The key is not to beat myself up for my mistakes. ACCEPTANCE is the foundation to build upon. I encourage everyone to make a million mistakes everyday. I discourage making the same mistakes over and over. This is insanity. This is denial. This diminishes our self-worth.
I teach and promote having a positive mindset. To be a positive thinker in this often negative and cynical world, is what I humbly call FAITH. Faith that good will always conquer evil. That the underdog will emerge victorious and the turtle will always beat the hare. I say, “As long as you never give up and always do your best, you can do and be anything you desire”. I truly believe that. I was never the best or strongest fighter, but my heart and determination made me a champion many times over. I also say, “In order to deserve the best, you have to be your best”. You must have discipline and focus to achieve your goals.
About all, I practice HUMILITY. For one second, if I selfishly believe this is all me, I will fall from grace. It is only with faith, God’s mercy and the amazing people who make up One martial Arts, that I am given the best quality life possible.

Positive Thinking

2010-10-28T00:20:00.001-07:00

In a world filled with much sadness and negativity, I believe it is crucial to have a positive attitude. Positive thinking is the key to overcoming the fear that negative thinking offers. So often we hear, “I can’t do it” and “I hate that”. That is what I call “Stinking thinking”. All it offers is failure before an attempt is even made. It says, “You are not good enough, so why even try?” It is this fear that paralyzes us. It stops us from taking chances and excelling beyond our own complacency. So this month, our theme and mantra is, “Yes I can”. Even if you don’t believe you can, fake it until you make it. Pretend to feel positive and the next thing you know, you’ll find yourself happy and more positive. Do not allow the dark side, as a great Jedi master once expressed, to consume and dominate your thinking. It is a war. A war within ourselves, that we must constantly do battle on a daily basis to win. Do not try to ignore it, it will only grow stronger. Embrace the fear of negative thinking, like a best friend. Ask it to come out and play in the light of positive thinking. Say “Yes I can” each and everyday and see the endless possibilities of greatness that we all possess. Come on now and say it, “Yes I can”. Again. “Yes I can”. Doesn’t that feel good?

Humility

2010-10-22T23:35:00.001-07:00

Practice humility. Learn to be humble. Be mindful it has no association with the unauthorized thought patterns of being humiliated or humiliation. Be perfect in your imperfections. It allows us the courage to take chances and make mistakes. It is from mistakes that we learn and grow. What stops us from taking chances is our fear of being criticized for our mistakes. Life becomes a series of missed opportunities. Opportunities disguised as mistakes. Everyday life learning lessons present themselves to help us become better people. The challenge is to those who exist each day with their eyes wide open but are totally asleep. The question then becomes: “What life skills are needed to create the mindset to overcome this thought pattern?” Number one is SELF-DISCIPLINE. The ability to always do your best. This requires FOCUS, (paying attention) and CONTROL (controlling one’s self). Above all, a personal relationship with your Faith is the cornerstone. Be passionate. Always live from love not fear. Make good choices. In order to deserve the best, you have to be your best. Do the right thing. At the end of your lifetime, you will value it the most. Always view your cup as being half-full. A positive mindset promotes life balance. Humility is a positive mindset. Have an attitude of gratitude. Never take anyone for granted. Be tolerant and accepting. A non-judgmental mind is a humble quality. Smile at life’s difficulties. They build character and teach us the most. Always remember you were once a child. It will keep you young forever.

Having a Quality Life

2010-10-21T00:07:00.001-07:00

We all deserve it. So how do we achieve this goal? Here are some suggestions:

1) Start and end each day in spiritual reflection.
2) Have faith and forever be hopeful.
3) Eat, sleep and exercise optimally.
4) Never forget you were once a child.
5) Practice an attitude of gratitude.
6) Be always mindful that your cup is truly half full.
7) Learn to accept life on life’s terms.
8) Keep your morning routine, especially breakfast, the same so you can focus all our energy on creating a positive mindset to meet your day.
9) Spend quality time alone.
10) Read everyday.
11) Remember to do nothing sometimes.
12) Don’t take anything personally.
13) Sing really loud when you are in the shower and car.
14) Give of yourself freely.
15) Hang out with kids every chance you get.
16) Be non-judgmental toward yourself and others.
17) Meditate everyday.
18) Learn to be present for it is a gift.
19) Love life, yourself and others unconditionally.
20) Always be forgiving to yourself and others.
21) Be present and mindful.
22) Embrace change, it is inevitable.
23) Be a person of integrity,
24) Always keep your word.
25) Be still and breath.
27) Have good family values.
28) Spend quality time with family and friends.
29) Make mistakes everyday but don’t make the same mistakes twice.
30) Never give up and always do your best.

Respectfully,

Professor Beliso

Gratitude

2010-10-19T00:28:00.001-07:00

Gratitude
Gratitude = To be thankful for the positive and good things in your life. I often struggle with this concept as a human being. When we are in pain or suffer loss, our mindset does not promote positive thinking. We dwell in the darkness because we are consumed by the sadness that is in front of us. We are in a weakened state of despair. The question is “What do we do to get through this process in a healthy manner and become a better person?”. First, go easy on yourself. Allow yourself to feel the feelings you are experiencing. This is a big part of the healing process. Honor your feelings at all cost. Do not pretend everything is fine when it is not. Keep a journal. Write down all your feelings. This allows you to look back and see the great progress you have made over time. It is also a great outlet so you do not keep your feelings bottled up inside. Surround yourself with family and good friends. Talk about your situation openly. Do not isolate yourself. This is very unhealthy. Cry. Crying is an excellent form of healing. Nurture yourself. You are a beautiful and special soul, despite the pain you may be feeling. Treat yourself with all the love you have. Go to a movie. Movies often bring out suppressed emotions, enabling the healing process. Practice acceptance. Accepting life on life’s terms requires great humility and is vital to the healing process. This one action alone will bring you great peace. Love. Offer love to yourself and the situation or people that you feel hurt over. If we act out of love, we will always make the best choices. What does this have to do with the martial arts you say? It has to do with life and the martial arts is a way of life. It is not just about being the best kicker or puncher. It is about being the best person possible in life, especially when things are not going your way. You will often hear me say, “It is easy to be great when things are going you way”. The question is, can you be great when things are hard? This is what builds character and helps us become better people.

Here Is What I Know...

2010-10-17T00:33:00.000-07:00

Here is what I know.
God's love and mercy
Was present with us
Over the past several days
Filling our community
With generosity and love
For our teacher who has
Given us all so much.
So we honored him,
Giving everything we could.
We stood in silent prayer,
With faith and hope,
That God will heal her
That he loves with all his heart.
Respect and humility shined
Through relationships that have built
Over a lifetime of martial arts training.
A family of diverse thinkers with
One common goal; To love eachother
Through Grandmaster's teachings,
And the gift that he is to all of us...

Brannon Beliso: It Works When You Work It

2010-10-12T00:20:00.000-07:00

Brannon Beliso: It Works When You Work It: "There is a great saying from a recovery program that goes, 'It works when you work it, so work it because you're worth it.' The key to this ..."

It Works When You Work It

2010-10-12T00:15:00.000-07:00

There is a great saying from a recovery program that goes, "It works when you work it, so work it because you're worth it." The key to this saying is "Because you're worth it." You must decide you're worth it.

Self-sabotage based upon obsolete core beliefs are the number reason to not achieving success in your life. You quit or make up some excuse to not pursue success because of a core belief most likely taught to you as a child that serves no purpose to your life today other than to hold you back.

Recognizing this is an even bigger challenge. You can conveniently rationalize your parents made you that way or that's how it was in your house growing up.

Choose to embrace old core beliefs like a best friend. It's only from this point of love that you can begin to heal and change. If you choose to run and hide from them, you'll be giving into the fear and it'll own you.

Know that change is guaranteed in life. What causes the most pain is the inability to not change when change is needed. Holding on to old core beliefs that were dictated to you as a child have no place in the adult world. They do serve as valuable lessons to help shape and mold your new beliefs and a path to success.

So work it because you're truly worth it. Build your self-esteem earned through practice, discipline and 100% effort. Work harder than anyone you know and you'll be successful.

Know it truly does work when you work it. And that means work harder than anyone you know. Work it without excuse or finger pointing. Hold yourself completely accountable. Take responsibility on how you choose to perceive life.

Your life.

And that life that is yours and it's one that is truly worth living...

Change

2010-10-09T23:47:00.000-07:00

Change is a constant.
You're always guaranteed change.
It's inevitable.
Accept change as you do the seasons.
Know it's gonna be what it's gonna be.
You can't change people.
You can only change yourself.
Accept that too and you'll sleep better at night.
Everything change because nothing stays the same.
Just when you get use to something
It changes to something else.
Change is the ability to be fluid
Where rigid thinking suffers the stress of change.
Welcome change and welcome the opportunites
To live this moment as it was meant to be...

Hard Work

2010-10-06T19:29:00.000-07:00

My father came to America on a boat when he was fifteen years old. He couldn't speak english very well, had a sixth grade education and suffered the prejudices of his time.

Today he is at least a millionaire and lives a fairly successful and comforatble life.

So how was this possible with so many odds against him?

Here is what he said to me, "Most people at the time, were smarter than me, spoke the language better and did not have the same prejudices inflicted upon them. The one I knew I had was the ability to work harder than all of them."

This is the key to being successful in life. Develop the life skill of being able to work harder than anyone else you know. Practice and be committed to hard work.

Don't shy away from hard work, embrace it like it's your best friend because it will get you anywhere you want to go. It's the vehicle to help you achieve all your goals. Hard work will carry you through the most challenging of times.

Thanks dad for teaching to work hard. It's becasue of this life skill, that I am successful and have a quality life.

Fear and Faith

2010-10-01T21:04:00.001-07:00

Fear is a very real emotion. All of us are afraid of something. I am sometimes afraid of not being able to provide for my family. I am afraid of getting ill and not being able to work. I am afraid of losing the people I love so dearly. I am afraid of not being able to live up to the standards I teach in every class.
What gives me peace and the ability to face my fears on a daily basis is my faith. For me that faith is God. God teaches me I am right where I am suppose be. I believe “God never gives me more than I can handle.” With God, I have the strength to face all my fears and strive to be a better person. For me, it is an act of true faith to believe with God, everything will be alright. When my fears get the best of me, I surrender them up to God. I believe where I can’t, God can.
I choose to embrace my fears like a best friend. I hold them close to my heart with acceptance and love. This helps me overcome my fears. I believe it is the path to serenity.
Lastly, I accept it is okay to be afraid. What is not okay, is to let my fears stop me from fulfilling my dreams and creating the best life possible for myself, my family and the people I serve at One Martial Arts.
So I live everyday with my fears. I also live with the faith, hope and belief that with God’s love and mercy, I can overcome those fears and fulfill all of my dreams.

Today Was A Moment

2010-09-26T23:34:00.000-07:00

We held our One Martial Arts 7th Annual Appreciation Picnic today. About 700 hundred people had signed up and most where there by 1pm. God blessed us with amazing weather and even better people in attendance. Just talking with folks and their kids under the sun in a beautiful setting made me stop and breathe in the moment. Today was not just another day. It was a moment. A gift from God giving me witness that his love is truly infinite. Children whom I've seen at the school but never really said more than two words to me would run up and hug me. I was humbled by each one of them. It was a moment to take stock and reflect why I have chosen to teach martial arts. The community of families that define One Martial Arts stood shoulder to shoulder in line to climb the rock wall, view amazing books from Little Pickle Press, break bread, jump in massive bouncers and feel inspired by our karate demonstration team. I was proud to share my forty three years of training as I dislayed the discipline and art my father had given me. I was even more proud to have my two year son Brayden break a board with his best front kick as I held it. I am just so grateful. I sat here before writing this blog and cried with my heart. It was filled with so much joy for a moment that I was blessed to be fully present for. I say it all the time, "Life is a series of missed opportunities." Today I didn't miss a single person that I connected with. I was in the moment with each and everyone of them and it was blissful. Thank you Lord for the moment which was today.

It Was An Honor

2010-09-21T00:26:00.000-07:00

We held a black belt testing last Saturday for eleven of our youth and adult students. It lasted about 8 hours. It was long, hard and challenging. I shared with them passionately before the test that they would most likely make mistakes with the demands associated with such a grueling environment. I said, "The mistakes we can always correct. What I can't correct is if you don't give me your heart and 150% effort." Everyone present gave me there heart and more. I was honored to not only test but witness the greatness all the black belt candidates displayed. Every challenge was met with a conviction that made them more than black belts. It made them martial artists. They truly understood, what I had known from 43 years of practicing, this is what the martial arts is all about. Like Sylvester Stallone said in his final Rocky film, "It's not about how hard you can hit. It's about how hard to get hit and keep coming back." Life will hit us hard and it is the truth of all of us with what we do with it. All the black belt candidates, learned a new truth about themselves. They learned from being pushed to their limits, that they're all capable of so much more than they could ever imagine. I saw it in their eyes. There was not hesitation, only action toward their goal of being their best. I am humbled and grateful to be your teacher. I am proud of each and everyone of you.

Much respect and success,

Professor Brannon Beliso
One Martial Arts

Faith

2010-09-17T00:18:00.000-07:00

You got to have faith.
It's hope without fear.
The knowing that a happy ending
Is just around the corner.
That at the end of a rainbow
Is more than a pot of gold.
It's the beginning of
All the endless possibilites
If you would just have faith.
To believe when there is
Nothing to believe in.
To hold on when all
You all you want to do is let go.
Faith challenges you to give
When you feel like you have so little.
Faith is love beyond fear.
A moment in present time
Where you honestly believe
With a Buddha's smile
That peace is the path
You deserve to walk...

Living

2010-09-15T12:03:00.000-07:00

I don't want to survive.
I choose to live.
Surivival is fear based.
There is no room to grow.
I choose to live.
This is a place of love.
It challenges me
To be vulnerable.
It asks me to give more
Than I believe possible.
Living is harder sometimes
But the bliss of knowing
You're alive is worth every tear.
There is no room for living
In a survivors breath.
Only gasping for the fear of
This being their last.
There is no room for surviving
In a breath of life.
Only the contentment that
God's love and mercy is plentiful.
Choose to live in love not fear
And everything will alright....

Lead By Example

2010-09-14T23:45:00.000-07:00

You must lead by example.
Walk your talk.
How can you ask your students to practice
If you don't practice?
It's hypocritical.
You must lead by example.
Train hard.
Practice often.
Get in the line up with your black belts
And sweat with them.
Make mistakes and learn with with them.
Always a student never a master.
Constantly learn and you will be successful...

Sunday

2010-09-13T00:21:00.000-07:00

Sunday is a day of rest.
Time to spend with family.
A moment to stand still and breath.
The ritual of chores, shopping
And preparation for the new week and the endless possibilities.
A reflection of gratitude and thanks be to God for his love and mercy.
A prayer of hope for many more Sundays just like this...

Tragedy in San Bruno

2010-09-10T00:23:00.000-07:00

I can hear the helicopters and planes overhead.
I can smell the smoke and see the ash in the air.
Every channel on TV is filled with images and soundbites
Of the tragic explosion and fire in San Bruno.
So close to home. So close to home.
I humbly pray for all those effected by the devestation.
God please help each and everyone of them with your love and mercy.
I pray the darkness gives way to the light of a new day.
May the healing come soon to save the sadness that fills today.

Acceptance Once Again

2010-09-09T00:39:00.000-07:00

Acceptance.
It helps us to let go of our negative emotions such as fear, envy, anger and resentment.
Accept we are not in control of people, places and things.
We can only be responsible for ourselves.
You can't change anyone.
You can only change yourself.
True change comes from within.
Recognizing this is a challenge
When we are busy looking outward for acceptance.
Humbly accept yourself for who you are
But always strive to better yourself and for a better tomorrow.

Be Fluid

2010-09-08T05:45:00.000-07:00

Life is ever changing.
Accepting life on life's terms offers a path to peace.
Humility is the guide that will lead the way.
As Bruce Lee once said, "Be like water.
When in a bowl become a bowl, and when in a cup, become a cup."
He challenged us to be fluid like water, ever flowing.
A raging river is an offering of the power of being fluid.
Because I ask you, "What good is stagnant water?"
You can't drink it or irrigate crops with it.
Stagnant water is a poison much like rigid thinking.
So be fluid like the water that understands the value of adaptability.
The ability to adapt like water creates a current or flow
That allows us to find balance amongst the chaos.
It helps us to see the love where there is only hate.
It rings of the bible verse, "Seek to understand versus being understood."
Accept "Change" is the essence of life and everything is temporary.
Being fluid allows us to present in the moment, and it's in that moment,
That everything feels like forever...

Labor Day

2010-09-03T01:17:00.000-07:00

A day to celebrate the hard work that we all do everyday.

A chance to reflect and be grateful we are working in such a challenging economy.

A time to share with our families and friends; and to remind us why we work so hard.

A reason to be proud of ourselves for contributing to the betterment of our communities.

Happy Labor Day

Summer's Over

2010-09-02T01:32:00.001-07:00

Summers over, the kids are back in school and the
familiar step of routine takes over. As we busy
ourselves with our demanding lives humbly be mindful,
“You are no good to anyone unless you are good to
yourself”. It is a state of balance that is the art we
strive to perfect. We must take care of ourselves in
order to best care for others. So I offer these
suggestions to help you create “life balance”; Live in
love not with fear. Eat oatmeal for breakfast everyday. Eat a piece of dark chocolate whenever you feel blue. Take a kickboxing class at least twice a week. Be mindful of your breath. Cry whenever you need to. Be the best you possible. Ask for help when appropriate. Explore holistic and alternative health; it’s the key to optimal health and longevity. Feed the mind, body and spirit equally to create balance in your life. Be grateful everyday. Never give up. Remember, “In order to deserve the best you have to your best.” Make no excuses. Humility is the path to being a better person. Doing the right thing is often harder but well worth it. Always see life as a privilege not a right. Thank God for little miracles. Know that you can be better than that. Remember the richest person is the one who can be happiest with the least. Above all, have faith that things are exactly as they should be.

Acceptance

2010-08-31T00:54:00.000-07:00

Let it go.
Accept life on life's terms.
Always easier said then done.
I am not in control of people. places or things.
I can barely keep myself balanced some days.
Be proactive instead of reactive.
Everybody is looking for their ladder to a higher self.
Stand tall even in the face of self doubt.
It always gives way to the light of a new day.
Breathe deep and know you are loved.
Breathe out and believe you are alive.
Be still and smile with gratitude...

Everyday

2010-08-30T00:34:00.000-07:00

Wake up everyday and ask yourself, "How can I do and be better today?"

Be ever mindful that yesterday is but a memory and tomorrow a dream.

Today is what matters most. It's built on the lessons learned from yesterday and lays the foundation to make your dreams of tomorrow come true.

Live today to do and be better. For me, I humbly strive to be a better husaband, father, brother, friend, martial artist, instructor, business owner and person.

I accept my shortcomings and make no excuses for them. I'm responsible and accountable for my actions. This truth gives me the desire to do and be better. It offer me the growth and opportunity to improve the quality of my life.

So everyday ask yourself, "How can I do and be better?"

We All Lose Our Way

2010-08-28T00:20:00.000-07:00

We often lose our way. We find ourselves asking, "How did I end up here?" When I lose my way, I remind myself, "The best part about being lost is being found."

As long as I learn from the experience, correct myself and get back on path, I accept this can actually be a good thing. I strive forward with a new found commitment and sense of direction and enthusiasm. I advance with a realization that everything is going to be alright now that I am back on track.

The challenge is not to beat yourself for being lost but to spend your time and energy moving fluidly on your path to success. A success that offers you life balance and sustains your quality of life.

I don't recommend driving aimlessly in the desert until you're lost just so you can find yourself again. I do encourage you to be mindful of every moment you are alive and be grateful...

The Need for Change

2010-08-26T00:34:00.001-07:00

The current economic situation shows the martial arts industry there is a need for change in the way we do business. Retention is the key to this change and to becoming “recession proof.” Recognize the importance of retention.
Instruct a curriculum rich in “life skills.” Invest in yourself through continued learning.
Make the consistent effort to do everything better in your martial arts business. Implement proven systems. Review and improve existing ones.
Offer specialty events and perks that promote "perceived added value.” Over-service everyone who walks through your door. Create an outstanding customer experience. Train your staff effectively. Practice an “attitude of gratitude.”
Above all, invest in the relationships of every student, member and parent in your school with all your heart.

Perform From The Heart

2010-08-23T22:10:00.001-07:00

Do everything in your school from your heart. If you simply follow a manual or read from a script without truly meaning it, people will see right through that.
A classic example of this is a telemarketer who calls you and is obviously reading from a script making his/her pitch. There's nothing more insincere and unappealing.
I believe in the old saying, “Do what you love and the money will come.” Conduct your business from your heart and not just your mind. Don't base your school strictly upon statistics and putting your bottom line ahead of the needs of your students, members and parents. Always put their needs first. It demonstrates sincerity and how much you truly value their relationship.

Invest In Relationships

2010-08-23T00:40:00.000-07:00

Invest in relationships. Be committed to do this with everyone in your school. This is the heart and soul of retention. It promotes loyalty and longevity.
My school grossed over a million dollars in 2008. I don't have a Black Belt Club, accumulative belt-testing fees, upgrades or contracts. What I do have is relationships I invest into passionately. I have loyal students, members and parents who value those relationships as much as I do.
People will always invest into relationships they perceive as "valuable." Make sure they view your school as an investment for themselves and their children. Create an environment and experience that people want to invest into again and again.

Over-Servicing: Give More Than Is Asked

2010-08-22T00:51:00.000-07:00

Retention is built on over-servicing your students, members and parents. Always give more than is asked of you. It promotes customer satisfaction. If they're satisfied with your service, they will refer you to potential new students.
Nothing speaks louder about your business than referrals. They are the most cost-effective way to advertise and attract new students. Industry standards have proved that it takes six times as many advertising dollars to enroll a new student than it does to keep an existing one. You can grow your student base and increase revenue if you retain your students and enroll new ones each month.
Create an outstanding customer experience. It makes your school the only place people want to come to and the last place they want to leave. It is the experience that's created from the result of over-servicing them.
Review every aspect of your school’s operations. Be very thorough in this process. It's not just the little things that count. It is everything that counts.
Here's an example of this experience. Say a younger student doesn't make it to a bathroom break in time. We'll avoid the details, but the experience we create is very tactful. It doesn't disrupt the class in progress or put focus on the child that may lead to embarrassment or inconvenience the parent. We even offer a change of clothes and a plastic bag to take the wet ones home in.
In most cases, the child returns to class with a big smile on his/her face. Both child and parent walk away satisfied.
Create an outstanding customer experience by facilitating each and every challenge in your school.
Train your staff effectively. This is the key to any successful business. Your staff is the backbone of your school. Everything they say and do create an outstanding customer experience. From implementing a dynamic curriculum to presenting a well-kept school, your staff makes it happen.
Conduct weekly meetings. Focus your agenda on achieving all your retention goals through over-servicing your students, members and parents. Train and retrain your staff as needed.
Practice an “attitude of gratitude.” Be grateful you own a business doing what you love. Be grateful for every student, member and parent who walks through the door of your school. Be grateful every day they choose to stay.
If you practice this philosophy, I believe you'll always make the conscious effort to over-service them. Is your cup half full or half empty? I believe, “My cup runneth over.” Always be grateful for each and every day you are offered. An attitude of gratitude will greatly improve the quality of your life and the retention of your martial arts business.

Perceived Added Value

2010-08-21T00:38:00.000-07:00

Offer specialty events and perks at no extra charge. This creates “perceived added value.” In my school, we offer Easter, Father’s Day, Halloween, and Buddy parties. We host an annual picnic for about eight hundred people. We give 30-day memberships to our parents during “Parent’s Appreciation Month.”

We also offer monthly workshops and a weekly practice class to our martial arts students. We award a complimentary private lesson when a student turns in a straight “A” report card and has perfect attendance in karate. We send out birthday postcards offering a ten-percent discount on all our memberships and services. We offer a special two-hour cardio kickboxing workout and complimentary t-shirt to members during the holidays.

This perceived added value demonstrates our commitment to our students, members and parents. It goes a long way in building retention.

Consistency Improves Everything

2010-08-19T23:19:00.001-07:00

Make the consistent effort to do everything better in your martial arts business. Remember how you consistently trained to earn your black belt? Is it not that same consistency that took you from a white belt all the way to being a successful school owner?
I’ve spoken to several owners whose businesses have dropped in the past year. Most admit they have stopped doing what they did to become successful. When asked why they stopped, the most common answer is, “I don’t know.”
This says they have lost their focus. Focus means, “To pay attention.” Pay attention to every aspect of your business. Master what you have learned to become successful. Remember, “Learning is not the same as knowing.” Only through consistent effort and practice can you master running your martial arts business better.
Review existing programs, systems and services. Change what doesn't work. Improve upon what does.
Sometimes you need to make adjustments to a program or system to make it fit the model of your school. I have successfully implemented the “Little Ninjas” preschool program for six years. I have made improvements to grow this system with my business on a path to success.
I’ve also developed One Merit Badges, a life-skills retention system and a specialized tournament to help enhance my Little Ninjas program. It boasts one of the largest enrollments in my school. This is an example of how a system that has been reviewed and improved can help retention.

Invest In Yourself

2010-08-19T00:37:00.001-07:00

Invest in yourself because you are your best investment. Achieve this through continued learning. Remember, “Complacency is the enemy.” Many school owners get complacent with the routine of their classes and business. They forget to keep learning.
Live the age-old adage, “Always a student, never a master.” As long as you keep learning, you will grow and so will your business.
A new teaching method or drill can breathe life into a routine class. Implementing a new program creates excitement and diversity. There are many credible resources and associations that offer programs and systems that have proved to be successful in the martial arts industry.
I am currently a member of the Martial Arts Industry Association (MAIA). It offers everything from staff training, ad slicks, class themes, drills, newsletters, to interviews with industry leaders. Each resource offered me a path to being my best, with results that improved the quality of my school, increased my revenue and improved my retention. Invest in yourself; it will be one of the best returns you will ever see.

Rich In Life Skills

2010-08-18T00:25:00.001-07:00

Offer a curriculum that is rich in “life skills.” This is the bread and butter of any successful martial arts school that specializes in children. Emphasize life skills such as focus, discipline, family, respect, teamwork and confidence. Make sure they are at the forefront of your curriculum and in all your classes.
Promote life skills from the initial phone inquiry, to the evaluation, to the first class and in every interaction thereafter. Through the life skills you teach, parents are more likely to invest in your school. They will view it as an environment of higher learning versus an extracurricular activity for their children.

Retention

2010-08-17T01:14:00.001-07:00

Retention is often overshadowed by enrollments and renewals. Many school owners devote much of their time and resources to enrollments and renewals because they produce instant revenue. When they enroll a new student or renew an existing one, they receive immediate payment.
Conversely, retention is a long-term investment where you reap the benefits over time. It is similar to the philosophy, “The seeds you plant today will one day bear the fruit of tomorrow.”
Recognize the value and importance of retention. It can greatly reduce your attrition (drop-out) rate. Do everything in your martial arts business with retention in mind.

Sunday...

2010-08-15T21:26:00.000-07:00

A day of rest. A spiritual rejuvenation of the soul to prepare for a new week of challenges and growth. I went to a train park in Los Gatos with my wife and two year old son. We rode a steam train and merry-go-round together. He needs me so much right now. I am often overwhelmed but grateful "I am his hero." I am his protector. Definitely "Papa Bear." What an honor. What a gift from God to be a father again. Some days it is challenging and I feel like an armless man trying to pick up the world. Still I am driven without hesitation or reserve to serve. I grilled all our food for the week. I do this every Sunday during the summer when the weather is good. I got my wife's car washed and gassed it up for her. I felt like such the provider making sure his brood is taken care of. Life is such a trip. I appreciate the opportunity to be selfless. It gets me out of myself, allowing me to see myself if another light. Happy Sunday everyone...

Programs & Services

2010-08-14T00:29:00.001-07:00

Only offer programs and services you truly believe in with all your heart. DO NOT hop on the band wagon of the latest industry trend if you don’t believe it is a good fit for your school and the values you want to present. For example, my school caters to families and is kid friendly, so we offer a variety of martial arts based programs. They range from adult martial arts, cardio kickboxing, kids karate, birthday parties, and year round karate day camps. We offer workshops for reality based self-defense and child safety awareness. Our core business is first and foremost, top quality martial arts programs rooted in life skills for all ages. This is the foundation I build my school upon. Above all, do not be a “jack of all trades” and a master of none. Focus on what you do best and do it right!

Outsourcing

2010-08-11T23:36:00.001-07:00

I once read, “Spend your time earning a dollar, instead of trying to save fifty cents. I am a big advocate of outsourcing. In the beginning, you will probably have to wear many hats due to budget constraints. As your business grows and budget allows, outsource as much as you see fit to help your business grow best. Base this decision on what best helps you manage your time. You need to decide what needs your direct “hands on” attention such as instructing or staff development. Your time is valuable and should be used in the most efficient and optimal manner. I cannot express this enough. Many martial arts school owners have failed due to bad time management. Consider outsourcing janitorial, tax preparation, and payroll services just to name a few.

Advertising & Promotions

2010-08-11T00:33:00.001-07:00

Effective advertising goes hand in hand with new enrollments. Without a doubt, the most inexpensive yet highly effective form of advertising and generating new students is to promote from within. Referrals are the best form of advertisement. If your current students and families are satisfied with their experience, they will refer you to others. We use a referral system that awards “ONE Bucks” to clients who refer someone. ONE Bucks are credit that can only be redeemed for services and merchandise at our school. Hold special monthly special events such as group intros, buddy day parties, interschool tournaments, a “Dad & Me” father’s day party, Halloween parties, etc. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Don’t spend your entire advertising budget on just one form of advertising. Divide your budget accordingly; on as many forms of advertising you believe works in your area. For example, my school is in San Francisco, and I find internet advertising works well for the clients I want to attract. Promotional “takeaway” items such pens and custom silicone wrist bands, are inexpensive and keep your name present in clients minds. Define your market and find advertising resources that fit it. As a general rule, devote twenty percent of your budget to advertising and promotions.

Pro Shop

2010-08-10T00:55:00.001-07:00

Pro shop sales are often overlooked by many school owners. There is potential for additional revenue with such built in sales such as mandatory sparring gear and weapons purchases at certain belt levels. They do not require a “hard sell”. The student must purchase the item to participate in a particular class or workshop. I require students to purchase a high end embroidered uniform as an intermediate student. You can also require students to purchase weapons for special seminars or training. I am a big advocate of branding. Just like the big boys, you should brand your logo on everything possible. I currently have my logo on about fifty different items for purchase in my pro shop. They range from t-shirts, striking and kicking pads, sparring gear, jackets, boxing gloves, water bottles and gym bags. Our pro shop currently grosses about forty five thousand dollars annually.

I believe Century is an excellent resource to help you brand your school without breaking your budget. They have everything for a successful martial arts business and offer a great custom logo program. Most vendors require a minimum order that can often be costly and a bigger commitment than you are willing to make in the beginning. Century understands this, and offers a very affordable minimum. This allows you to have a variety and make a statement in your pro shop without breaking your bank. Century is also committed to satisfying their clients with quality products and reasonable prices.

Promote certain items during holidays and seasonal events and always have them on sale. Make sure your pro shop is located in a highly trafficked and visible area of your school. Make sure your displays are eye catching and well lit, showcasing items in the best way. Rotate stock every month.

Enrollment, Retention & Renewal

2010-08-08T22:59:00.001-07:00

Everything a successful martial arts school owner does should center around three things, “Enrollment, retention and renewals”. That means if what you are doing in a given day does not cater to these three things, then stop doing them. Manage your time well, and focus on actions that promote this.

Enrollment is the recruiting of new students. Enrolling new students is a vital element in growing your active student count. Have an internal referral program in place. It should benefit your clients for referring people to your school. You can also gain new leads through specialty events, such as buddy day and birthday parties, live demonstrations at your local mall or nearby school, print ads, television, radio, mailers, email campaigns, and “word of mouth.”

Retention is about keeping the students you already have. You must have an excellent curriculum instructed by a professional and qualified staff. Staff training increases student retention. It takes six times the investment to get a new student as it does to keep an existing one. Make every effort to satisfy an unhappy student or parent. I will sometimes offer a complimentary private lesson with an assistant instructor to an unhappy parent who feels their child is not progressing or getting bored. Personal attention says a lot about your business. Send out “We Miss You”, “You Did Great” and birthday discount postcards. I also use an immensely successful life skills retention program I developed called, One Merit Badges that I recently launched at the MASupershow in Orlando, Florida. I believe this merit badge program has had the biggest impact on “Closing the back door” in my school and reducing the attrition rate.

I often walk through my school when classes are going on, talking to students and parents, to get feedback of their needs and opinions. Communicate with them and make them feel they are important. Talk to your clients, more than just in passing, and make them feel a part of your school, and not just a paying client. Life is about relationships. Develop and nurture relationships with all your students and parents. It is called humanity. Invest in relationships and you will reap the benefits. Recognize the value of retention. It does not help to grow your business if you gain twenty new students and lose thirty in a given month.

Renewals are renewing the memberships of your existing client base through upgrades and longer memberships. Always offer incentives like family discounts and lower tuitions for longer memberships. Make sure you notify your clients in advance when it is time to renew. You can best facilitate this through renewal letters, phone calls and when they are at your business. This gives them the opportunity to take the time to consider a longer membership by assessing their customer experience. If you did your job right, they would be more likely to upgrade and choose longer memberships.

Staffing & Training

2010-08-08T01:18:00.001-07:00

Staffing is vital to the success of your school. Whether you are a one person show or a school functioning with multiple employees, recognize the importance of proper staffing. Hire from within whenever possible. Your students, especially your black belts, understand the values your school represents. It is a relationship of established mutual respect. This respect offers the potential to build quality business working relationships. Hire staff that has a positive attitude, possess the desire and ability to learn, and is a team player. In you are having challenges with your staff, retrain or replace them.

The success of any business depends greatly on staff training. Conduct weekly meetings that focus on improving all aspects of your school. Just like you train in the martial arts, train your staff to effectively implement the curriculum and teach at a professional level. Again, retrain or replace a staff member whenever challenges arise.

Invest in your own continued training and learning by being active members of a martial arts educational provider such as MAIA. I am an active member and their monthly Success Kits are crucial to the growth of my business. Be a black belt off the mat as well. Make a commitment to become a black belt in all areas of your business such as finances, advertising and the “customer experience” to insure the success of your school.

Curriculum

2010-08-07T00:03:00.001-07:00

A well organized, thought out, and dynamic curriculum is the backbone of any successful martial arts school. The quality of instruction must be consistent. This can be achieved through proper staffing and training. Make sure your curriculum is rich in life skills such as focus, discipline, confidence, and teamwork. Most important keep it fun, exciting and interesting. Consider a rotating curriculum to facilitate teaching when you have more students than instructors. Back up your curriculum with support materials such as instructional DVD’s and written handouts of all your requirements. Have this accessible in your school and at your website. Offer private lessons and monthly workshops to support the success of your student’s progress.

Environment & Atmosphere

2010-08-05T23:53:00.001-07:00

You never get a second chance to make a first impression. Nothing speaks louder than a clean and well presented school. It creates a professional environment and leaves a lasting impression. Walk through your entire school with a clip board and rate yourself honestly on a scale from 1 to 10. Make changes and adjustments in any area you feel you scored low in. Your school should always look neat and clean, simple and uncluttered, smell good and be well lit. Hire a good cleaning service if budget permits. It will be one of the best investments you can make toward creating the best environment for your clients and school.

Atmosphere is created by a staff that is knowledgeable, always helpful and above all, exudes a positive attitude. There is a great saying, “Attitude is contagious, who has caught yours today?” Make sure you and your staff displays a positive attitude at all times. “No” is never the right answering when facing a client’s challenges. Make every effort to meet your client’s needs. Atmosphere contributes greatly to the customer experience of your school.

Customer Experience

2010-08-03T01:07:00.001-07:00

Do not mistake customer service for the customer experience. The “Customer experience” is about leaving an impression that makes clients want to come back again and again. Most would agree, when we are treated well and given prompt service with satisfactory results, we would return to that establishment again. Even if we don’t always get what we want, if we are offered a courteous and genuine experience, we walk away feeling good about what has transpired. The customer experience is about meaning it from your heart. In our school, it is our policy to know and say everyone’s name that walks through our door. When they leave we do the same. People love to hear their name said out loud. This is just one example of the “Customer experience”. Define your schools customer experience by industry tested standards and your own personal beliefs

Surround Yourself with Quality People

2010-08-02T01:59:00.000-07:00

Make it a priority to seek out and develop quality relationships. From your employees, to your mentors and friends, spend your time with quality people.
Define what that means to you. Include people who are goal oriented, compassionate, unselfish, confident, community minded, spiritually grounded and devoted to their family. They should exemplify all the qualities you admire in a person and aspire to be. They should inspire you to greatness. They should be people who offer constructive suggestions but never criticize you. They should be one of your greatest reasons to love and do what you do.

Properly Manage Your Time, Money & Wealth Goals

2010-07-31T22:06:00.001-07:00

Managing your time effectively and efficiently is vital to your success. The downfall of many martial arts school owners is poor time management. Does this scenario sound familiar? An old student stops in unannounced, you stop what you are doing, and end up in a lengthy conversation about the good old days? Nostalgic as it seems, it’s bad time management. Remember those goal lists? Stick to them verbatim. They are the key to good time management.
Proper money management is the fuel that drives your martial arts school. Create a budget for your business and don’t deter from it. Pay yourself a livable wage and reinvest as much of your profits that’s possible back into your business. Remember, “It takes money to make money.” Be mindful that at some point, you’ll need to show profits if you ever want to secure a loan to grow your business. It’s always better to borrow someone else’s money then to use your own personal resources.
Wealth goals are the path to financial freedom. You have the potential to determine your level of wealth because you own your own business. It all depends upon how hard you’re willing to work to achieve it. I follow author of “Rich Dad, Poor Dad” Robert T. Kiyosaki’s model for abundant wealth. He says, “The three goals to financial freedom are to own your own business, have a strong investment portfolio for your retirement, and invest in real estate.” Having wealth goals and achieving financial freedom allows you the vehicle to create the kind of life you’ve always dreamt about.

Recognize the Importance of Having Goals

2010-07-30T23:33:00.001-07:00

Having goals helps build self-esteem. Remember being a white belt and having the goal of one day earning a black belt? How proud did you feel when you finally achieved that?
To achieve your goals you must be able to visualize them. Accomplish this by writing them down. Seeing your goals on paper can be very powerful and facilitates a call to action. Start by dividing them into three lists; “A”, “B” and “C”.
The “A” list are daily activities such as teaching quality classes, training, eating healthy, picking your kids up from school and getting enough sleep.
The “B” list is tasks that must be accomplished in four to six weeks, and require planning and preparation, such as a monthly belt testing, a demonstration at a local mall, or making a dinner reservation to celebrate your anniversary.
The “C” list is your wish list, filled with all the things you dream about such as a vacation around the world, buying a new home or going sky diving. This is my favorite list because it allows you to dream big, where everything is possible and the sky is the limit.
To be successful with your lists you must follow through by taking action. Talk is cheap. Walk your talk. Ever find yourself saying, “One day I’ll do it” or “I should of have done that?” Own everything you do by taking responsibility for all your actions and choices.
Review your lists on a weekly basis. Whatever goals you didn’t achieve this week get transferred to next week’s list. Do this until all your goals are achieved. Then set about making new lists and establishing new goals.

Be Content But Never Satisfied

2010-07-29T14:06:00.001-07:00

It’s important to be content where you are today but always strive to be and do better. Successful people don’t focus on what they’ve done. They focus on what they’ve yet to do.
Live in the present not the past. That’s why the present is called the “present” because it’s truly a gift. Teach every class like it’s the first, the last, and the only class you will ever teach. Be fully present with every person you interact with on a daily basis.
Do take the knowledge of what you have learned from past experiences to help you live a better today. Focus on being the best martial arts instructor, school owner and person possible. What matters most is what you contribute to society, to your family and to yourself today.

Create Balance in Your Life

2010-07-28T00:13:00.001-07:00

Most eastern philosophies and martial arts practices believe we’re composed of three elements; mind, body and spirit. It’s also the belief that all three must be nourished equally to create “Life Balance.”
Nourish your mind by learning every day. Nourish your body by eating healthy, exercising and managing your stress. Nourish your spirit by finding your own spiritual path and walking it on a daily basis.
If you neglect your mind, body or spirit in anyway, you create imbalance. If you are imbalanced, you cannot function optimally. This can lead to bad choices, wrong actions, illness and stress.
Creating balance is often the most overlooked aspect of most people’s life. “I’m too busy,” “The kids come first,” “I don’t have the time.” Sound familiar? You’re no good to anyone unless you’re good to yourself. Remember you’re your best investment, so make the commitment to creating balance in your life.
Here are a few other suggestions I humbly offer you to create life balance; spend time alone every day. Share quality time with your family and friends. Take vacations every year. Humbly accept your limitations. Recognize you can’t do it alone. Learn to say “No” sometimes. Learn to let go. Develop a quality team in your business. Define what others could and should be doing in your business and delegate authority.

Commit to Being atudent for Life

2010-07-26T01:35:00.001-07:00

As the proverb goes, “Always a student and never a master.” I love being a student. It allows me to take chances and make mistakes without fear. There’s nothing that feels better than standing in the lineup of a class and responding, “Yes sir” to my instructor’s directions.
Instructors often spend so much time teaching they forget they were once students. Never forget by constantly learning and growing as a martial artist. It’s the path to being a better martial arts instructor and maintains the integrity of your skills. The moment you believe you have nothing more to learn, your martial arts and business will suffer.
Instructors often believe teaching is the same as training. Repeat after me, “Teaching is not the same as training.” If you don’t train, how can you ask it of your students? Lead by example by making it a priority to schedule and participate in weekly training sessions and monthly workshops with your staff.
Read something every day. I was watching a children’s awards show where the actor Will Smith encouraged the audience to read. He said something to the effect, “Everything that you could ever want to know has already been written in a book somewhere.” Don’t try to reinvent the wheel, simply learn to drive your car better. You’ll learn faster, make fewer mistakes, and save yourself time and money by reading and doing your homework.
The majority of school owners will agree they’re all black belts on the mat. But when it comes to business, finances, advertising, staff training, retention or customer service, they admit they could always do better. Learn to be a black belt in all aspects of your business through joining organizations such as MAIA and MAIA Elite. Attend great events like the annual Martial Arts Supershow in Las Vegas.

Be a Master of Sustained Passion

2010-07-25T11:19:00.001-07:00

To sustain passion is the art of a true master. It’s easy to be passionate for a day, a challenge to be passionate for a week, and difficult to be passionate consistently.
The foundations of sustained passion are focus and discipline. These “life skills” are the characteristics of a great martial artist, instructor and successful school owner.
Focus means to “Pay attention.” Pay attention to every aspect of your life and business. When you’re focused you’re more productive and efficient at everything you do. Passion comes easy when you are fully focused on teaching a class, enjoying a meal or spending time with a loved one. Focus also leads you to make better choices. Good choices improve the quality of your life and grow your business.
Discipline is the second of these life skills. I define discipline as “To always do your best.” When you do your best you feel great, and feeling great about yourself is called self-esteem. A person with high self-esteem tends to be more goal-oriented and passionate about life.
I always say, “In order to deserve the best, you have to do your best.” It doesn’t matter if you’re tired, in a bad mood, whether it’s fun or to your liking, you must always do your best to succeed.
Only from a constant state of focus and discipline can you be a master of sustained passion.

Create a Positive Attitude

2010-07-25T01:36:00.001-07:00

A smile and positive attitude are the traits of a successful person. If you smile you’ll feel better, attract positive people into your life and business, and the challenges you face will be easier.
Exuding a positive attitude will inspire your staff, students and families. It’ll make your martial arts business the only place people want to come to and the last place they want to leave.
To create a positive attitude, you must eliminate three words from your vocabulary. They are “Problem, try and should.” Replace them with “Challenge, do and must.”
You don’t have problems only challenges. Viewing situations as challenges allows you to see them as goals. Having goals are inspiring. You’ll be more motivated to achieve a successful outcome when you view problems as challenges.
The great master Yoda once said to a young Jedi, “Either you do or you don’t, there is no such thing as try.” The challenge with trying is that it allows you to rationalize your behavior and failure by saying “At least I tried.” Successful people achieve their goals by doing not trying.
You should train more. You should eat better. You should manage your time properly. Eliminate “should” from your vocabulary and replace it with “MUST.” You must train regularly. You must eat better. You must manage your time properly. Utilizing the word “must” instills a sense of urgency and an immediate call to action.
While we’re at it, let’s also eliminate the words “I can’t.” Replace them with “Yes I can.” Say it real loud. Say it again. Say it as often as needed every day.

Practice

2010-06-02T00:11:00.000-07:00

Practice. One of the biggest challenges for us to get our children to do. I know we feel bad making them practice, especially when they offer us such resistance. So often we give in, letting them quit whatever activities requires practice.

I am here to offer you a different perspective. I have learned, being a child in the martial arts and now an educator and parent, that this will not best serve my child in the long run. If I want my child to be successful with strong work ethics and study habits, they must practice. Do I expect them, as a child, to truly understand and embrace the importance of practice? I humbly accept they do not have the maturity to do so. It is my tough decision, but the best choice, as a parent to make my child do so.

As a child, whether I liked it or not, my father made me practice martial arts much like he made me do my homework. If I had my way, I would of never practiced or had done my homework. I would of chosen a big bag of potato chips and cartoons any day.

Did he force me to practice? Yes? Did I resent it as a child? Absolutely.

Fast forward to today. Two successful businesses, accomplished writer, motivational speaker, recording artist, deans list in college, high school student body president, voted most outstanding senior and winner of 150 martial arts championships later, am I grateful my father made me practiced? Absolutely.

I praise my father for having the foresight to give me the tools to create an amazing life. I live by strong work ethics and study habits. They are the instruments that have guided me to a quality life.

I believe life is a practice. I practice being a parent, partner, friend and business owner. I practice life balance and stress management. I practice being a student for life and the best educator possible. I practice humility, knowing I will make mistakes but can always do and be better.

So in honor of Father’s Day, I express gratitude to my father for making me practice. I thank him for acting as a parent when I would of preferred him to give me my way out of my own immaturity.

I pray God gives me the same strength and character when I am faced with making the best choices when it comes to my son Brayden.

Happy Father’s Day

Professor Beliso

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2010-04-28T14:12:00.001-07:00

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Blog

2009-08-06T23:56:00.000-07:00

When I first started writing this blog, I was advised if I blogged regularly it would drive more traffic to our website. I quickly realized I couldn't do this just for the sake of more hits at my site. I could only blog when inspiration needs to be realized. I may not blog daily, weekly or even monthly. I do promise that when I do blog, it will be from a heart that is fully present and filled with the truth life deserves. So if you choose, stay tuned...

I Surrender

2009-08-06T23:55:00.000-07:00

My ten month son Brayden is sleeping in his crib for the first time tonight. As I laid him in this foreign space, he cried with a familiar sense of abandonment that I recalled when I was only a month older than him in a foster home. I lie on the floor next to his crib and wedge my hand through the bars of the crib to comfort him with an extended hand. He wrapped both of his tiny hands in mine and even touched me with his foot for reassurance. I sang two of the made up lullabies that I’ve sung to him since the first day he was announced into this world. I repeated the verses over and over until his cries soon faded into a slumber that signaled his sleep. The deal was sealed when I felt his grip loosen in mine. Overwhelming tears filled my eyes and I sobbed from my soul. I surrendered to the truth that my baby is growing into a little boy. I surrendered to the vulnerability that surrendering to God’s will is all that I can attempt to do. I surrender to love and all its joy, beauty and sorrow. I surrender to the loss of a sister who died way too soon. I surrender to a father who rejects me. I surrender to a mother who has been absent most of my life and now lives with a paralyzed left arm from a stroke that is the result of fifty years of two packs a day smoking. And I, with all my heart and conviction, surrender to the gratitude that wakes me each day to get up and be my very best. Not just for my son, my wife and myself; but to the love and mercy I believe God blesses all of us with. I surrender to the belief that surrendering completely is the freedom that holds true peace. A peace of acceptance, tolerance and forgiveness for myself, that frees me to live life in love not fear. I surrender to all my fears and give them up to God with total faith that every little thing will be alright. I hear my son crying, I must surrender to my need to be a father and tend to him. I surrender…

Happy Anniversary One Martial Arts

2009-05-03T21:13:00.001-07:00

Nine years, can you believe it?! A moment to stop and reflect. As a person and martial artist, I have been challenged to be fluid. Each passing year presents the opportunity to grow and become a better person. I reflect, seeing my victories, as well as my setbacks. Life is about progress not perfection. Sometimes, I had to be at my worst, to understand God’s path for me and the infinite compassion he offers me. Humbly, I embrace my purpose to educate and motivate those who desire higher learning through discipline. I welcome parents’ desire to offer their children every opportunity, like the martial arts, to have the best life possible.

I am amazed by the quality people I have had the privilege to know and get to know. Next to listening to a 4 year olds opinion on discipline, you are my favorite people.

I have learned so much in the past year. Always be a student and never a master. I believe mistakes are lessons waiting to be learned. Always be mindful, insanity is making the same mistakes over and over, expecting different results. Continue to make new mistakes everyday.

I have no idea what endless possibilities the future holds. I am grateful my eyes are wide open and I am definitely awake. I am forever committed to improving upon what we do, to better serve our students, members and parents needs.

In honor of our 9th Anniversary, I thank God for allowing me to do what I do. I would like to thank my wife Kim, son Brayden, staff, friends and extended family. You humble me. To all our parents, I offer you my respect and gratitude. To the students and members, you are One Martial Arts. I pray we walk this path together for many years to come.

Respectfully,

Professor Brannon Beliso

Gratitude

2009-04-04T23:36:00.000-07:00

I often write about Gratitude. It is a key philosophy of many eastern spiritual practices. Every morning when I wake, I begin in reflection. I reflect on how grateful I am to be alive with a new day. I thank God for all the blessings that are my life. From this mindset, everything I experience in each and every moment of that day, I appreciate completely. I practice taking nothing for granted. I am grateful everyone I am honored to share life with me. I am grateful for every challenge life offers me. Gratitude allows me to be fully present. The only thing that truly is real is the moment I am living. Be it a conversation with a parent, praising a student, my daily phone call to my sister, kissing my wife or looking into Brayden’s eyes, I am fully present. I always say, “The present is called the present because it is a gift.” I believe yesterday does not exist and tomorrow is but a dream. The present is all that truly matters. It allows me to see the truth of that moment. It offers me the opportunity to see and experience everything for the first time. Every time I see a sunset, I embrace it as the first and only sunset I have ever seen. This is also the great joy of having a child. I am reminded, through all of Brayden’s first time experiences just how amazing life is. The other day he discovered his hand. He was both curious and in awe. It made me hold out my hand and appreciate the gift I often pay no mind to. I mindfully bent each finger and smiled at my new discovery. It was like renewing a friendship with a long lost friend.
So I write about gratitude. I encourage everyone to breath, being mindful of their breath and to be present in the moment. Practice an “Attitude of gratitude. Take nothing for granted. Is your cup half or half empty? I believe, “My cup runneth over.” Always be grateful for each and every day you are offered. Be present and grateful in the moment. It will greatly improve the quality of your life.

Respectfully,

Professor Beliso

Hope Not fear

2009-03-13T22:19:00.000-07:00

President Obama campaigned passionately with the message, “Hope not fear.” I believe more than ever this is a message we should choose to live by. Having hope in one’s life promotes a positive mindset. It says, “My cup is half full instead of half empty. Hope looks for the faintest light in the darkness. It’s the silver lining in a dark cloud. Hope says, “It can’t rain all the time.” It challenges us to believe when there is nothing to believe in. Hope encourages us to dream big and live life to the fullest. Fear perpetuates a negative mindset. It says, “My cup is not half empty, I have no cup.” Fear says, “Give up, you don’t have a chance.” It says, “You don’t deserve the best.” Fear leaves us hopeless and diminishes the quality of our lives. The important thing is to remember you always have a choice. You could choose to live with hope. You could choose to live in fear. The power of choice is yours. You are not responsible for many things that happen in life such as the state of the economy. You do have the power how you choose to perceive it. Hope is the solution President Obama offers us. I choose to wake up everyday with a hopeful heart. I am hopeful our nation will recover. I am hopeful the war in Iraq will end one day and our troops will come home. I am hopeful we will heal the earth and our children will have a world to live in the future. I am hopeful all of life’s current challenges will bring people closer together. I am hopeful we will reevaluate our priorities and become mindful of what is most important in our lives. For me, what is most important, first and foremost is God. Everyday I wake up and am grateful to God for every breathe of life I am given. It is important I recognize how blessed I am to have my family. It is important I take nothing for granted. It is important I appreciate everyone I am privileged to share life with. It is very important I am hopeful no matter how challenging life can be. So I humbly reiterate President Obama’s message of “Hope not fear.” Always choose hope and as Bob Marley once sang, “Every little thing is going to be alright.”

Leap of Faith

2009-03-13T22:18:00.000-07:00

As I climbed to ten thousand feet in a rickety Cessna, I sat amongst three experienced skydivers and a well seasoned pilot. The energy they projected was that of a deep respect and knowingness for what I was about to experience. The one skydiver who had this look of bliss and serenity had jumped two hundred and sixty times in the past six months. I looked deeply into his gaze that past out the window and embraced the morning blue sky. The Zen that filled his eyes became my breath as I closed my eyes and meditated. There was no fear in the cockpit, only humility and joy for the honor of being able to dance with the heavens. As we reached our height destination, the paper thin side hatch opened. I looked out and witnessed God’s country like never before. As I stepped out onto the wing, everything slowed and the sound of my breath gave way to the power of the wind calling. “Ready, set, go” chanted my tandem instructor and I took a “Leap of faith” that sent me hurling toward the earth at one hundred and twenty miles an hour. The incredible rush of speed magnified the knowingness I had seen in the eyes of those skydivers in that cockpit and now felt deep in my heart. I was humbled and stripped of all complacency I may of ever felt. There is absolutely no ego as you fly through the sky without the benefit of the perfectly good airplane you just jumped out of. I felt God’s love in the knowing that today I was not going to die but live like I have never lived before. I flew amongst the heavens and kissed angels. Then the parachute opened raising me up to another level of consciousness. Silence filled the sky as we floated softly toward the green fields below. I had never seen this great and beautiful world from this vantage point and in this way. How could any of us ever believe we are so much more significant than mother earth? To be so selfish on our own paths that we hurt her again and again for convenience, progress and profit. As she reached for us with arms stretched out, I told my tandem instructor, “There is no ego up here.” I didn’t feel small, I felt at one with every element that encompassed me. I was filled with the deepest sense of gratitude. Each breath I took was timeless. I was truly present with the gift of flying that I had been blessed with. I love my wife for giving me this as my birthday gift. I had always wanted to skydive but had put the notion aside since marrying and becoming a father again. With her encouragement, I was able to take this “Leap of Faith.” I humbly thank all of you for allowing me to share this moment and my life with you. - Professor Beliso

It's Been Awhile

2009-03-13T22:12:00.000-07:00

So much has happened since my last blog. I had a son, who is now five months old. I jumped out of a plane and watched my school grow to six hundred students. I opened a new business and weathered a challenging economy. Gratitude is my choice to live by and the law of attraction holds much truth. I am back and promise to do my best to blog. What a word blog. I will do my best to offer you my insights and thoughts on life as I experience and see it. Thank you for your patience. God loves you, never forget that. Brannon

Positive Attitude

2008-01-29T15:31:00.000-08:00

A smile and positive attitude go a long way. I believe if you smile, you will feel better, make more friends and the hard things will be easier. A great mentor of mine, Master Dave Kovar of Satori Academy of Martial Arts once quoted, “Attitude is contagious, who has caught yours today?” I instill this philosophy in my staff and instructors. I believe if you practice a positive attitude you will attract positive people into your life. A positive attitude will inspire your students and staff. It will make your martial arts business a great place to come to. On the downside, a bad attitude can greatly compromise your martial arts business. We’ve all been served by someone who has a bad attitude. It is the one thing we are guaranteed to remember long after leaving that establishment and the number one reason why we will never return. Have you ever woken up in a bad mood for no reason at all? You are not responsible for that. You are responsible if you choose to stay in that bad mood throughout the day. Master Kovar proposes the question to instructors to ask ourselves and students, “How are you doing today?” He says a great response would be, “Feeling good and getting better.” When I wake up in a bad mood, I look in the mirror through gritted teeth and say that mantra. Even if I don’t truly feel it, I know if I “Fake it until I make it”, eventually I will feel better and my mood is transcended to a more positive state. I practice having a positive attitude with devotion because I know it is the most important key to being a great martial arts instructor, school owner and an even better person.

Surround Yourself with Quality People

2008-01-29T15:24:00.000-08:00

Make it a priority to develop and nurture quality relationships. From your employees, to your mentors and friends, spend your time with quality people. Define what that means to you. I suggest that include people who are goal oriented, compassionate, unselfish, confident, community oriented, spiritually grounded and devoted to their family. They should exemplify all the qualities you admire in a person and aspire to be. They should inspire you to greatness. They should be people that offer constructive suggestions but never criticize you. They should be one of your greatest reasons to love and do what you do.

Having Goals

2008-01-18T09:55:00.000-08:00

It is important to have goals. They build your self-worth and help you grow your life and business. Remember being a white belt in the martial arts and dreaming of one day earning your black belt? Dreams and goals are often synonymous. To achieve goals, you must be able to visualize them. If you can visualize it, you can achieve it. Write down your goals. Divide them into three lists; “A”, “B” and “C”. The “A” list are daily activities such as teaching quality classes, training, eating healthy, picking your kids up at school and getting enough sleep. The “B” list are tasks that must be accomplished in four to six weeks and requiring planning and preparation such as a monthly belt testing, a demonstration at a local mall or making a dinner reservation at the best restaurant to celebrate your anniversary with your wife . The “C” list is your wish list filled with all the things you dream about such as a vacation around the world or a new home or going sky diving. This is my favorite list because it allows me to use my imagination where the sky is the limit. To be successful with all your lists you must follow through. Talk is cheap. Walk your talk. Ever find yourself saying, “One day I’ll do this” or “I should of have done that?” Stop making excuses and take responsibility for all your actions and choices. Eliminate the words “I can’t” and “But” from your vocabulary. These words only set you up for failure. Remember to write down those lists and follow through. Review them on a weekly basis. Whatever goals you did not achieve this week get transferred to next’s week list. Do this until all your goals are achieved and I promise you a more fulfilling life.

Balance

2008-01-18T09:50:00.000-08:00

Balance. It is defined by nurturing your mind, body and spirit equally. If I take care of my mind and spirit but abuse my body, by not training and having poor eating habits, I will be imbalanced. If I properly nourish my body and grow my mind by learning but have no spirituality then I am imbalanced. All three must be fed equally to create balance. Feed your mind by learning every day. Feed your body by eating healthy, training and managing your stress. Invest in your spirit by finding your own spiritual path. Create balance by spending alone time every day. Share quality time with your family and friends. Take vacations every year. Humbly accept your limitations. Recognize you cannot do it alone. Always be grateful. Accept life on life's terms

Sustained Passion

2008-01-18T09:49:00.000-08:00

Sustained Passion: “To sustain passion on a daily basis is the art of a true master.” It is easy to be great for one day, a challenge to be great for a week but very difficult to be great consistently. Sustained passion is the first key to constant growth in your martial arts business. It is also vital to maintaining a quality life. The foundation of sustained passion is focus and discipline. My definition of focus means to “Pay attention”. Look with your eyes, listen with your ears, think about the best choice to make, and take the right action. All four must be fully engaged to be focused. The second is discipline; simply defined as, “To always do your best”. It does not matter if you are tired or in a bad mood, you must always do your best. Discipline takes great skill on a daily basis. Focus and discipline are life skills that must be mastered to sustain passion.

Thank you Lord...

2007-12-17T10:19:00.000-08:00

My heart is filled with humility. I am so grateful to be a husband, father, martial artist, a teacher and small business owner. God has blessed me, even though often times I don't feel very deserving. God offers me his love and mercy in spite of my shortcomings. He lifts me up when I am down and gives me hope when I feel hopeless. God shows me with a lot of hard work and a "never give up" attitude that dreams can come true. God has given me a beautiful loving wife, a prosperous business supported by the best group of people anyone can imagine, my health and most of all, a spiritual relationship that gives me the strength to want to be a better person. I thank you Lord for giving us your only son, so we may see the true love and mercy we should all exemplify for the world and each other. I thank you Lord for blessing me with so much. I am humbled by your greatness. I love you God. Happy birthday Jesus...

Happy Holidays

2007-12-03T23:02:00.000-08:00

Amazing. Another year has almost passed and the holidays are upon us again. How often I have heard people say, “I survived the holidays”. I do not want to survive. I choose to live. Living embraces such qualities as passion, giving, accepting challenges and always doing our best. It reminds me to be humble and grateful for every breath I am offered. It says never take a single person for granted and be present in every moment I am blessed with.

As I reflect upon 2007, I have so much to be thankful for. First of all, my personal relationship with God. The strength, faith, and love God gives me are the foundations of my life. To my wife Kim, and my family, you are my heart. To the parents, students, and members that are One Martial Arts, you allow me to live my passion and truth. My dedication to serving you is my strongest conviction. To my staff and parent organization, I would like to thank each and everyone of you for giving me unconditional support and belief. You represent the true meaning of teamwork.

As I look forward to a new year, I will hold fondly the memories of our Tournaments, 5th Annual Appreciation Picnic, Easter, Halloween and Buddy Day parties, Child Identification with SFPD Reserves, SF Food Bank Food Drive, SF Firefighters Toy Drive, countless belt tests, private lessons and classes. Together we have achieved so much. I know together in 2008, with God’s love and mercy, the possibilities are endless. I am humbled to contribute to helping so many of you be your best. I am grateful for the trust you offer me. Thank you for your patience as we grow and constantly strive to be a better martial arts school. Your honesty, dedication and understanding is the driving force behind One Martial Arts.

I thank you with a child’s heart. My prayers and gratitude are with each and every one of you. Happy Holidays!!!

Respectfully,

Professor Beliso

Thanksgiving

2007-11-04T20:18:00.000-08:00

I want to be fully present with every breath I take. You never know how many more you will be blessed with. I say this with a deep sense of love and compassion not fear. My love of life and living it completely is my discipline. It defines courage, knowing you are afraid but choosing not to allow that fear to paralyze you. It says do not think about losing, then you will surely lose. Embrace the humility of simple victories and feel God's mercy. So I offer you this: Kiss yourself in the mirror at least once a day, act like a kid more often than not and give of yourself, unselfishly to your family, friends and community. In honor of Thanksgiving I recognize the gift of family that we have been given. However we define family, it is the main social aspect of our lives that give us a true sense of belonging. Feel humility that you have been blessed with truly wonderful people to love. Embrace gratitude knowing you never have to go through life’s ups and downs alone. Our family are the people we should always offer the kindest words of love and compassion. They are the greatest gift offered us. It is an honor to be a part of something so beautiful as family. I thank God for helping me realize this each and everyday. I am grateful for the entire One Martial Arts family.

Happy Thanksgiving,

Respectfully,

Professor Brannon Beliso

2007-09-30T00:12:00.000-07:00

What is inside your heart?
I do not care if you make
100,000 dollars a year,
Tell me what makes you cry?
There’s no mystery or magic.
Simply feed your
Mind, body and spirit
Equally and you create
Balance and harmony.
Neglect any of the three
And you create imbalance.
Freedom is the key.
Choose to put down
The thick high walls
That keep out all the light
And you feeling nothing
Except the same mistake
That you make over and over
Always asking yourself why?
So I challenge you to
Laugh ten times a day
And always be in love,
With yourself, others
And life in all its
Glorious mysteries and
Funky twists and turns.
I’d rather go through life
With my eyes wide open,
Then asleep with only
A gold watch and a pension
To show for after thirty years.
This is only my perception.
Find your own perception
Inside those places that you
Cry alone to, late at night,
When no amount of
Distractions or lies
Can prevent you from
Hearing the truth that
Cries out from your soul.
"I’m alive in here"
"I am alive".
And then all you hear is
The sound of silence.
You’ve broken through to
To the other side,
Past your fears,
Past your past
Into the gap of unlimited
Potentiality where
Love is the light
That shines through the
Darkness in your heart.
I am humbled to
Share my heart with you
And will always choose
To love completely
Each and every time
God grants me this opportunity.
This gift that calls to be
Fully appreciated in
All its simplicities but
Makes no promises...

2007-09-30T00:10:00.000-07:00

Exercise the mind
By freedom of thought.
In the imagination
Stop signs melt
And fly away.
Pretty funny if you ask me,
To see an elephant
Green as can be.
Or the nations
having a pie eating contest
To satisfy their greed.
Today I am a imaginist.
A mindset that only
Lives in images.
Yeah, that’s the ticket!
Images,
Of...of...
Don’t think!
Let your imagination run free.
Had a conversation with an ant today.
It was interesting indeed!
We spoke of dog shaped clouds
And two ton grasshoppers,
Whose songs are deafening
To the tiny ear of the ant.
Imagine if you will,
A place like Willie Wonka’s
Chocolate factory
Where everything is edible.
Kinda like the world use to be huh?
Elvis is alive!
I spoke to him yesterday.
He’s running a peanut farm
Down in Georgia.
Makes some pretty righteous
Peanut butter too!
Oh well, my imagination
Needs some food.
Maybe I’ll have some
Liver and strawberry ice cream
With banana chow mein and
Fried cucumbers.
Nah, how about chocolate
Lizards and pickled yak balls
With parsley? Hah, hah!
No, how about steamed butterflies
And the frozen eyes from the
Face of a politician?
Imagination my good friend
Holds the key toUnlimited potential!
Use your imagination and
Set yourself free...

2007-09-30T00:08:00.000-07:00

Round one thousand
Eight hundred and thirty two,
Brannon vs. Self-doubt.
Self doubt has dominated
The early rounds but the
Tide seems to be turning.
Brannon’s corner has told their fighter
To quit fighting self-doubt
And embrace it like a best friend.
This has left his opponent
Confused in the later rounds
And the momentum is changing.
Brannon is on his toes,
Bobbing, weaving and sticking
Self-doubt with explosive jabs
Of positive reinforcement.
He knows he can win this fight
With self-acceptance
And looks like a true champion.
Ladies and gentlemen,
Self-doubt is down for the count!
In a flurry of love,
Brannon has knocked out
Self-doubt to win the
The championship of self-worth...

2007-09-30T00:06:00.000-07:00

See the baby
Taking his
Very first step.
So much thought
And preparation
Is involved.
The importance,
Negotiation and
Planning bears
Great significance.
The child is amazed,
Overwhelmed, excited,
Delighted and determined
To complete his task.
He lifts his appendage
With calculated precision
And gingerly, no awkwardly
Leans forward to
Plant it firmly in
Front of himself.
The red alert is over
And the green light
Signals a successful mission.
The first step has been
Taken and many more
Trips lie in the future.
Just imagine what
It’s gonna be like
When he starts running...