Welcome to the AGKK Philosophies section. All philosophies are provided courtesy of Bernie Haughey, Chief Instructor, Australian Goju Kai Karate.

Excellence Cannot Stand Still

“True karate practitioners believe that learning and excellence cannot stand still. Their goal is the pursuit of excellence. They are calm, quietly confident, respectful and courteous in manner. They develop the ability to be more aware and make precise decisions. Their karate training is reflected in every aspect of daily living.”

“There is no way to perfection but through patience and effort.”

Benefits of Positive Thinking

“The greatest human invention or idea may have hundreds of failures before it achieves success. Sometimes a student may think something is standing in their way, but this is really an illusion. What exists is an opportunity for them to do their best and gain success. My advice has always been to 'think positive', and find fuel in any failure.”

“Be true to yourself and others.”

Failure leads to Success

“When a person fails, he or she actually gets closer to where they want to be. Every time you try something that does not work, you are getting closer to finding the solution.”

“Value humanity, not money.”

Keys to Life & Survival

Mental toughness, it the key to survival, this is the product of spiritual strength and meditation. It comes through training, meditation, and exercise.

Self-reliance is the key to survival. The more self-reliant you are, the less you will fall victim to the mercy of others.

Mental Calmness is the key to survival. Meditation is a way to calm your inner-self. In desperate times, you mind must remain calm.

Instinct is the key to survival. Through self-defense and karate training you will intensify your instincts — "always follow your instincts".

“Life itself is a constant struggle – live life purely and with sharpness.”

Compassion through Self-Cultivation

“In today’s rapidly changing times and the gradual is integration of culture, there is a strong need for an art form with a true philosophical base – one that emphasizes continual self-cultivation and refinement. This art should have at its core the development of the Individual and be designed to promote a genuine concern and responsibility to other human beings, not try to encourage aggression and a ‘win only’ attitude. Martial arts should focus on the development of the individual in which the ultimate goal is to continuously strive to develop the positive qualities within each of us; this is the true essence of Australian Goju Kai Karate.”

“Traditional karate is not a dance; it is a way of effective self-defence and a way of life.”

"The human heart, when perfectly placid and clear, reflects the very image of purity."

"In traditional Goju Kai Karate we encompass a system of moral principals."

"Those instructed in the code develop the ability to discipline themselves."

"Purity is the outward regard for the feelings of others...including such things as politeness, etiquette, loyalty, sincerity, truth, honor, personal dignity and worth."

"Education in the dojo should cultivate wisdom, self control, responsibility and courage."

Bernie Haughey 18th May 2002

AGKK Philosophies © 2002 Bernie Haughey, AGKK