This month I have learned that how I view various challenges, and happenings will create, and affect what happens within that moment. If I see it in a negative light, I can't help but respond to it in a defensive manner. This revelation opened up an important growth as I train for my Kyokushin Black Belt test.
I realized that I could feel overwhelmed, engulfed, and even afraid of what the future will bring by seeing each challenge as insurmountable. The more that I value the Rank of Black Belt the more I understand how much I need to invest myself mentally, physically, and spiritually into this goal.
It has been 5 years since I earned my Shodan in Shotokan in front of a Master, almost 9 years since I started training in Karate, and I still feel that I have so much more to learn. However, last Friday I learned that it is all one's perspective... to the newer white belts of a Dojo, I could appear to them as already accomplished, and knowledgeable. I remember when I was a beginning student, and how the Brown belts were so quick to respond to Sensei's commands. I was in awe, and even frightened of having to learn so many things.
I believe the key to handling difficult challenges is to view them with the proper perspective. Not too hard, not too soft.. with a balance where each aspect is resolved, and solidified, before tackling the next step. This reminds me of self-defense where you must handle each issue as it appears, and not get caught up in your imaginations, and fears, but be aware of all things that occur, and react appropriately.
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6 comments:
Good luck.
Osu!
Yes it is all about balance.
Great analysis here, I would agree with approach and emphasis on balance.
One thing I've noticed as I myself have gone through the black belt process and helped students go through it as well, is that there is a strange period after success that focus becomes unclear.
The dedication and fixation on achieving black belt is gone, and there is a bit of a void where the person can either find nothing or find some of the more core aspects of martial arts training that make it a worthwhile lifelong endeavor.
Thank you for your comments.
Yes, Ikigai, I have also seen how some people will achieve Black, and then they will react as if suddenly there ceases to be a goal in their training.
I have been blessed with teaching from my Sensei that has revealed to me that achieving Black is similar to opening the door to so much more learning, and opportunities to advance. In a way, achieving that color means that you have improved enough in your skills that you are able to take your foot off of the ground, and step onto the first rung of the ladder.
Hi there, awesome site. I thought the topics you posted on were very interesting. Brilliant ideas. There are really so many things to talk about in martial arts and I am enjoying reading all about it here.
Thank you for your kind words, Ronald.
My Blog tends to focus on my personal experiences, and viewpoints, I'm glad that you find subjects of worth here.
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