A martial arts master was sitting outside with his student when a stray dog passed nearby. The master caught a flea on the dog to show the student how high it could jump. Back at the dojo, the master took out a small box and showed it to the student; inside was another flea. Once out, the student was astonished to see that this flea, although similar to the one collected from the dog, did not jump very high: in fact, no higher than the height of the box in which it had been confined for a long time.

This clever metaphor comes from a martial arts manga. It represents the limits within which one can confine oneself and prevent progress. And it is very easy for a martial arts practitioner to lock themselves in their own little box of limits. Here are some examples.

Training always with the same person
Constantly training with the same partner often makes things easier. You end up knowing their reactions and anticipating them, whereas a technique should be able to be applied to anyone. Training with many different partners allows you to learn to adapt and refine your techniques.

Imagining that you will face an ignorant person without knowledge or skills
It is undoubtedly reassuring to imagine that if we ever have to use our techniques to defend ourselves, they will be used against people who know nothing… Until we face someone in a real situation who knows how to fight. If, on the other hand, we train with the mindset of having to face someone stronger (like a martial arts expert!), it will be very different. Between setting the bar high or low, it is better to set it high.

Staying in your comfort zone
In the routine of regular practice, everyone can fall into the trap of sitting comfortably in their training without questioning or improving themselves, especially after years. In the past, improving in martial arts was a matter of life or death. A misaligned sword or a wrong foot support could mean the death of the practitioner. Keeping this fortunately distant reality in mind is essential. Just like improving your weaknesses instead of ignoring them. Everyone is the main actor in their own learning, and the necessary rigor for their own progress must come from oneself.

Looking down on other styles and combat systems
The best martial art is always the one you practice, and it is easy to look down on different styles. Nothing is worse than underestimating other combat systems due to misplaced ego. Rather than belittling them, a true practitioner tries to learn from them, which is much more effective in facing them.

Be rigorous and demanding with yourself in your practice, and instead of a flea jump, you will reach the clouds.