We focus on fostering authentic skill development and character building through diligent practice and earned recognition. True mastery and rank are earned through dedicated training, consistent improvement, and a deep understanding of the martial art, rather than being a mere symbol of "winning" or an arbitrary status. We have high standards, but we will never nickel and dime you with ridiculous numbers of belts, stripes, tests and fees. We award belts as an honorable, achievement-based system of recognition, and is based solely upon Student Skills, Knowledge and Sensei Discretion. Students may receive belts, certificates or scrolls recognizing their abilities at times, however students are not guaranteed to pass any belt test. Our belt progression system is not designed to cater to a student's narcissistic desire for superficial achievement or rapid advancement without genuine effort. People who want instant gratification will never advance spiritually, emotionally, mentally and physically and will wander around from mcdojo to mcdojo seeking ego boosts that never truly fuel the student's long term development. If the primary objective is to acquire a belt without undergoing the rigorous process of earning it, there are numerous other money-grabbling mcdojo belt factories that may offer a quicker, less demanding path to perceived prestige.