underestimated

One of the most valuable traits you can develop as a martial artist is the ability to be under estimated by the opponent. 'Remain as the sheathed sword'. Like wise the practice or focus on establishing and preserving a particular image for your self within the Dojo will only assist in massaging your ego and developing rigidity of mind. Neither will be an ally as you age.

If training partners mistakenly wish to not recognise certain things when they train with you, to make narrow minded assumptions, to behave a certain way then GOOD that is there way and right, and will ultimately restrict their development and lead to sufffering in reality. Your practice is to blend. Just blend. By practicing blending your mind your physical blending will proportionally develop.

Release your desire to control the environment, actions and thoughts of others.. it's a delusion. Embrace the reality as it is and not what you would like it to be.