Hustle. Happiness. Harmony.

Black Belt in Life ® is a federal trademark of Kumite Classic Entertainment and Bill Viola Jr. A black belt in life is the continuous pursuit of self-perfection. It’s being BAD A$$ in all aspects of being! This self-help curriculum has sharpened the swords of thousands of people seeking a warrior’s mindset, and now it’s available to you.  Earning this belt is mastering balance.  Balance between wants and needs.  Balance between career, education, health, family, relationships, recreation, and spiritual development.  Balance between work and play.  In essence, black belt balance represents discovering “happiness,” the most cherished commodity in the world!  Happiness is more precious than any lottery won, stock discovered, or diamond collected. 

WHO IS COMMONSENSEI?

Meet “Sensei” Bill Viola Jr., a bestselling author and master of commonsensei!  He’s created the award-winning Black Belt in Life®, Common Sensei®,, and Sensei Says® book series. He is the Founder and President of Kumite Classic Entertainment based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

“Black Belt in Life” is a concept promoted by Bill Viola Jr. that extends the philosophy and principles of martial arts beyond the dojo into everyday life. Viola, a highly respected figure in the martial arts community, emphasizes that the discipline, respect, perseverance, and other values learned through martial arts training are not just for competition or self-defense but are essential tools for personal and professional success.

Bill Viola Jr. has often spoken and written about how martial arts principles can be applied to overcoming challenges, setting goals, and achieving success in various aspects of life. This philosophy encourages individuals to live by the ethical and moral codes of the martial arts, such as integrity, humility, and courage, in their daily interactions and pursuits.

The “Black Belt in Life” idea suggests that achieving a black belt is not just an end goal but the beginning of a lifelong journey of learning, growth, and improvement. It’s about taking the lessons learned on the mat and applying them to become a better person, make positive contributions to society, and lead by example in all areas of life.

Through his teachings, writings, and community involvement, Bill Viola Jr. inspires martial artists and non-martial artists alike to strive for excellence, maintain a positive outlook, and face life’s challenges with the strength and wisdom of a black belt.99

Sensei Bill’s 99philosophy of being a “Black Belt in Life” revolves around the idea that the virtues and disciplines learned in martial arts can serve as a foundation for personal development and achievement in all areas of one’s life. This concept is not solely about martial arts techniques but about the mindset and character-building aspects that martial arts training instills.

Core Elements of Being a Black Belt in Life:

• Discipline and Focus: Martial arts require a high level of discipline and focus, traits that are equally important in personal and professional endeavors. Viola Jr. advocates for applying the same level of dedication to achieving goals outside the dojo.
• Resilience and Perseverance: The journey to black belt status is filled with challenges and setbacks. Viola Jr. emphasizes that overcoming these obstacles in martial arts trains individuals to face life’s difficulties with resilience, turning setbacks into opportunities for growth.
• Respect and Humility: Martial arts teach respect for oneself, others, and the environment. This respect, coupled with humility, guides individuals to treat people with kindness and to approach life with an open mind and heart.
• Continuous Improvement: The concept of “Kaizen,” or continuous improvement, is central to martial arts. Viola Jr. encourages individuals to pursue lifelong learning and to constantly seek ways to improve themselves, their communities, and the world.
• Leadership and Service: Being a black belt comes with a responsibility to lead by example and to serve others. Viola Jr. believes in using the skills and confidence gained through martial arts to make positive contributions to society.

Application in Daily Life: Kaizen 1% daily gains:

The 9philosophy extends beyond personal success; it’s about cultivating a holistic approach to living that benefits oneself and others. Whether it’s in education, career, relationships, or community service, the qualities of a black belt can lead to a more fulfilling and impactful life.

Bill Viola Jr.’s “Black Belt in Life” philosophy serves as a metaphorical guide for achieving excellence not just in martial arts but in every aspect of life. It’s a reminder that the principles learned through the pursuit of a black belt have universal applications, offering a path to personal growth, ethical conduct, and making a positive difference in the world. Through this philosophy, Viola Jr. inspires individuals to aspire to be black belts in every endeavor, embodying the best qualities of martial artists in all they do.

Black Belt in Life teaches you how to set worthwhile goals, take action, and reveal your “reason for being.” Bill Viola Jr. (aka CommonSensei) says, “When you chase purpose, you’ll catch happiness.” It’s not illusive; it’s just elusive, and CommonSensei holds the treasure map:  X marks the spot!

“Black Belt in Life” is a series of books created by Bill Viola Jr., who is also known as the “Common Sensei.” Viola is a bestselling author and has been recognized for his contributions to martial arts and self-help literature. The “Black Belt in Life” series, along with the “Common Sensei” and “Sensei Says” book series, are part of his award-winning work. These books aim to teach readers how to achieve a warrior’s mindset and apply martial arts principles to personal growth and self-improvement​ (Black Belt In Life)​.

Bill Viola Jr. describes the essence of the “Common Sensei” as a guide to earning a “Black Belt in Life,” emphasizing the continuous pursuit of self-perfection. He advocates for changing one’s life by dedicating 864 seconds a day towards self-improvement, aiming to transform ordinary individuals into modern-day samurais. The book targets readers looking to adopt a warrior’s mindset and seeks to equip them with life skills necessary to excel in various aspects of life​.

For more detailed insights, the book might cover topics such as leveraging one’s position, personal growth, and achieving balance in desires, necessities, careers, and relationships. It seems geared especially towards younger generations, providing them with a curriculum for self-help and personal development grounded in martial arts philosophies​. Read more.