Posted by ADAM CARTER on OCT 13, 2023
"Do you really want to spend even a few precious moments of time worrying what other people think?"
In the world of martial arts, long-term practitioners embark on a journey that transcends physical training and self-defense skills. This journey is also one of self-discovery, discipline, and personal growth.
To truly excel in the martial arts, you must grapple with the question: "Do you really want to spend even a few precious moments of time worrying what other people think?”.
Martial arts demand unwavering self-confidence, not just in the physical realm but also in the mental and emotional aspects of training. The constant worry about others' opinions can erode your self-confidence, hindering your progress and enjoyment of the martial arts.
Many practitioners often hold back, fearing the judgment of their peers or instructors. This fear can lead to self-doubt and hesitation, preventing you from reaching your full potential.
When you are preoccupied with what others think, you may compromise your uniqueness, preventing you from fully embracing and showcasing your individuality.
Constantly worrying about the opinions of others can lead to stress and anxiety, negatively impacting an your overall well-being.
The martial arts offer a unique opportunity for you to shift your focus inward, embracing the principle of mindfulness and self-awareness.
By redirecting your attention away from external judgments, you can engage in self-reflection and self-improvement. This leads to a deeper understanding of yourself and your art. Free from the constraints of others' expectations, you can explore and innovate within your chosen discipline, pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
In the martial arts, progress often involves failures and mistakes. Those who are concerned about what others think may find it difficult to accept these failures as part of the learning process.
The ability to bounce back from setbacks is a key component. It's far easier to develop resilience when you are not preoccupied with the judgments of others.
The martial artist who values self-improvement above all else will readily embrace failures as opportunities for growth.
Ultimately a journey of self-mastery and by letting go of external judgments, you can more fully focus on mastering yourself.
"Do you really want to spend even a few precious moments of time worrying what other people think?”, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of focusing inward and nurturing self-confidence in your practice and training.
In the martial arts world, personal growth and self-expression are paramount, and these goals are often stifled by the undue concern for external opinions. To truly excel in the martial arts, you must cultivate self-assurance, embrace self-reflection, and wholeheartedly commit to the journey of self-improvement. By doing so, you will find yourself liberated from the weight of others' opinions and able to reach your full potential in this profound and life-enriching discipline.
By surrounding yourself with supportive peers and mentors, you can create a positive environment, a supportive community that reinforces the idea that martial arts is a personal journey, and each individual's progress is respected and valued. - Your value does not decrease based on someone's inability to see your worth.
“As soon as you concern yourself with the 'good' and 'bad' of your fellows, you create an opening in your heart for maliciousness to enter. Testing, competing with, and criticizing others weaken and defeat you.” - Morihei Ueshiba