6. When can I expect results... or my black belt?
These questions are one in the same, with the same sort of answer. Many variables play into how fast your training will go. If you are dedicated and train outside our sessions it can progress rapidly. If you pick and choose what to work on... not so quick. The ultimate results are determined by the focus you apply. I can show you the right doors... but you do have to walk through them...
An old anecdote...
A student came to a master in Japan after searching for the best teacher. He prostrates at the foot of the master and begs to be trained. Master studies him and then agrees. Student rises and asks the master I have one question... "how long will it take?" The master looked at him with piercing eyes and says, "10 years." The student was astounded. "How... what... what if I train extra every morning and evening?" Master replied, "20 years." Not really registering for him yet the student says, "What if I work all day and night and skip lunch and train every single day without break???" "30 years." "But master every time I say I will work harder you keep saying it will take longer?!?"
"Because young student... if you have your eyes set to hard on the goal... you do not have the means to see the path you have to walk to get there."