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<blogEntry id="3416">
	<title><![CDATA[Full time Aikidoka Journal]]></title>
	<body><![CDATA[Since November of 2008 I have been working full time in charge of the running and growth of a full time Aikido Dojo. 

So I've decided to keep a journal on the subject. I don't know how religously I will keep to it but I hope to keep a useful account for anyone hoping to dedicate themselves more fully to their art.

The first 2 months

November was difficult. I was enjoying it a lot because I got to train every day. I was philosophical in that I knew that it was going to be hard and that the money would not be good (at first) but I didn't care because I was confident I would get the hang of it in good time.

I was also very concerned because I've decided to go against everyones financial advice and get a job that is not secure. 

My closest friends will know, however, that it is not money that drives me. Here are some of my reasons for taking the plunge:

: I have spent too many years spreading myself across many disciplines (not always martial) and I really think its time to focus.
: I've put 12 years of my life into this art. It IS the thing I'm best at. Whether or not I'm good is another matter...
: I want our school to be strong.
: I think the people who come to us get a lot from our training.
: I want to be the best Aikidoka I can. 

So although not monetarily sound, I am getting a lot from this. 

More later..]]></body>
	<date>01-14-2009</date>
</blogEntry>
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