There are defining moments in life when a single phrase resonates so deeply that it shapes how we see ourselves and the world around us. For me, one of those moments came when I heard my friend and fellow martial artist, Dave Kovar, express a powerful philosophy: “Be a martial artist first, a teacher second, and a professional third.” The moment I heard it, I knew it aligned perfectly with how I have lived my life and how I strive to serve my community.
This isn’t just a catchy saying—it’s a guiding principle that has shaped my past, drives my present, and inspires my future. Let me explain what this means to me and how it has impacted my journey.
Martial Artist First: The Warrior’s Mindset
I did not grow up in luxury or privilege. The streets could have swallowed me up, as they did so many others. But I found an identity in being a warrior—not a fighter in the physical sense alone, but a warrior in spirit, in mindset, in resilience.
Martial arts gave me a code to live by, a way to channel my energy into something disciplined and empowering. It taught me that no matter what obstacles stood in my way, I had the strength, courage, and adaptability to overcome them. The warrior mindset saved me, shaped me, and continues to guide me today.
Being a martial artist is not about belts, trophies, or competition. It is about self-mastery, discipline, and a commitment to continual growth. It means showing up for myself every single day, training my body, mind, and spirit to be prepared for whatever life throws at me.
Teacher Second: A Mission to Serve
Once I became strong enough to lift myself up, I realized the greatest honor was helping lift others up.
Martial arts training is more than just teaching people how to kick, punch, or grapple. It’s about empowering individuals—helping them find confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose. Whether it’s teaching a child to believe in themselves, helping an adult regain their strength, or guiding someone through a difficult time in their life, I see my role as a teacher as a mission to bring value to others.
The lessons I’ve learned through martial arts—discipline, patience, humility, perseverance—are the lessons I strive to share every day. And just like on the mats, the best teachers are lifelong students, always looking to improve, learn, and grow so they can serve others better.
Professional Third: Honor, Integrity, and Excellence in All Areas of Life
In today’s world, being a professional is often associated with financial success or climbing the corporate ladder. But to me, being a professional means something much deeper:
✅ Always showing up as my best self—at home, in my community, and in my workplace.
✅ Upholding honor and integrity in everything I do.
✅ Taking responsibility for my actions and the example I set for those around me.
I strive to embody professionalism not just in how I run my martial arts programs, but in how I carry myself as a husband, a father, a mentor, and a leader. Being a professional means leading with integrity, treating people with respect, and holding myself to the highest standard, not because anyone is watching, but because it is the right thing to do.
Living Strong: The Ultimate Goal
At the end of the day, Living Strong is about being aligned with these values. It’s about embracing the warrior’s mindset, serving my community as a teacher, and conducting myself with honor in all areas of my life.
I share this philosophy because I hope it resonates with others—those who are on their own journey of growth, service, and personal excellence. Whether you are stepping onto the mats for the first time, looking to make a difference in your community, or simply striving to live with more integrity, I encourage you to think about the order of priorities that define your life.
For me, it is clear: Martial Artist First, Teacher Second, Professional Third. And I will live by this every day.
🥋 What about you? What guiding principles shape your life? Drop a comment below or email me at peterliciaga@gmail.com—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
