"You need great passion because everything you do with great pleasure, you do well."

 

Posted by ADAM CARTER on NOV 06, 2023

"You need great passion because everything you do with great pleasure, you do well."

 

The great Formula 1 racing driver, Juan Manuel Fangio’s insightful quote, "You need great passion because everything you do with great pleasure, you do well”, serves as an enduring reminder of the importance of passion in any endeavor.

This statement resonates strongly for me, where passion is not just a desirable trait but a fundamental element that can drive us forward.

The martial arts are not just a diverse range of combat disciplines but they are a way of life. At its core, they promote self-discipline, respect, and self-improvement. However, it is the passion for these arts that infuses them with life and makes the journey so extraordinary.

Passion is the fiery fuel that ignites the journey. The enthusiasm and dedication that we bring to our training can often be unparalleled. The physical demands require intense focus, unwavering commitment, and a relentless pursuit of perfection. It is this passion that pushes practitioners to train rigorously, develop skills, and constantly strive to surpass our limits.

Passion for the craft is not a fleeting emotion; it is a long-term commitment. It helps us endure the rigors of training, maintain resilience in the face of setbacks, and persevere through the inevitable challenges that arise….. and to just keep turning up.

When faced with obstacles, the passionate martial artist doesn't see them as insurmountable roadblocks but as opportunities to learn and grow. The desire to improve and the love for the art itself become a driving force, motivating us to overcome adversity.

The relationship between passion and skill development is inseparable. When we immerse ourselves in our chosen discipline with a deep sense of passion, skills naturally progress. This is because we eagerly dedicate ourselves to learning, refining techniques, and mastering the intricacies of our chosen art. The continuous pursuit of knowledge and the desire to be the best version of ourselves become an integral part of our identity.

Mastery in any field requires countless hours of practice, and it is passion that allows martial artists to not only endure but embrace the arduous process.

Every repetition of a technique, every drill with a training partner, and every class attended is an opportunity to improve, and this mindset is sustained by a genuine love for the art.

Often becoming role models, inspiring others to pursue their passions and dedicate themselves to practice and training.

"You need great passion because everything you do with great pleasure, you do well”. This journey is intrinsically tied to the passion for our chosen discipline. The passion serves as a driving force, resilience in the face of adversity, and personal growth, empowering us all to try and excel, not only in the dojo but also in all aspects of our lives.

Just keep turning up.

“Nothing in this world can take the place of Persistence.” - President Calvin Coolidge (1872-1933)

 Photo Credit: Courtesy of Tatsuya Naka sensei at the Higaonna dojo Okinawa - Kuro Obi World