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About this quote

What does it mean?
Styles are just labels; understanding combat fundamentals matters more.
In plain terms
Don't worry about style names, just learn the basics of fighting.
What can you take from it?
Focus on fundamentals rather than labels or styles.

Where it applies

  • martial arts
  • skill acquisition
  • creative work

Putting it to work

  • learn fundamentals
  • ignore rigid categories

Questions to consider

  • Are you stuck on labels or names?
  • What are the roots of your skill?

Another view

Structure and style can help beginners learn effectively.

More from Bruce Lee

  1. Jeet Kune Do is training and discipline towards the ultimate reality in combat. Jeet Kune-Do is the only non-classical style of Chinese Kung Fu in existence to…

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  2. Jeet Kune Do uses no way as way. The consciousness of self is the greatest hindrance to the proper execution of all physical action.

    Permalink to quote #117
  3. It's not what you give, it's the way you give it.

    Permalink to quote #114

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