One of the things that sets traditional martial arts like tae kwon do apart from other fighting forms is that they include a philosophy, proposing an entire way of living. Therefore, they generally will include some form of tenets or codes of conduct to assist students in becoming better people, not just better fighters. Tae kwon do has five such tenets.
Courtesy
Training should be conducted in an orderly manner and foster the building of character. One of the ways of showing courtesy is to bow to the instructors and other students and address the instructor respectfully. Students should arrive early, be polite and show respect and consideration for one another. A sense of fairness, justice and mutual compromise should be fostered.
Integrity
Students need to be able to distinguish between what is right and wrong. They should develop their consciences and listen to them, choosing to do what is honorable. Instructors and students should act with honesty. Instructors should teach proper techniques and not be motivated to teach solely for material gain. Students should not try to move up in rank if unmerited and should not seek rank only for egotistical purposes.
Perseverance
Patience and hard work should be employed to reach goals. Techniques must be practiced regularly and for long hours to be perfected. Perseverance should be exercised in the overcoming of all obstacles. No matter the opposition, you should continue to work toward your goal. Inherent is the idea that the goal must take work to achieve if it is to have value.
Self-Control
Exercising self-control is to be able to restrain your impulses. Self-control is especially important when sparring, as the loss of control could lead to injuries, either to you or your opponent. Outside of the school, in real-life situations, it also is necessary to be able to effectively control a dangerous situation. Even in situations that have nothing to do with self-defense, such as difficulties that might arise in the workplace, this tenet is useful.
Indomitable Spirit
You must be able to act without fear or hesitation to oppose injustice, no matter who the perpetrator is or how many there are, and show the courage to uphold your principles regardless of whether the odds are against you. This is a spirit that cannot be subdued. Inherent in this is confidence in yourself and the belief that you are working toward a worthy goal.
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