(Approx 2 minute 10 second read)

So, what’s your story going to be?
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If your instructor pushes you, disciplines you, and demands the best from you all the time – doesn’t that mean they truly care and want you to progress?
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Recently, we had a student leave the dojo who had been with us for about seven years. He started when he was nine years old and was progressing towards black belt, but we had seen a definite drop in his enthusiasm.
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We talked to him and tried to encourage him, but we could sense something wasn’t right. It was a blow when he said he was quitting, but not totally unexpected.
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He began missing classes on a regular basis, and even when he was there, he was disconnected, not truly engaged. And because he had missed so many classes, he was becoming frustrated that he didn’t understand some of the lessons.
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Some of the other students had passed him in skill level, and you could see the aggravation written all over his face.
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This is a common challenge as younger students begin to reach an age when there are other things that appeal to them, whatever those things may be. In the beginning, perhaps it’s their parents who push the youngsters to attend, but when they get their own voice, it’s often more fun to do those other things.
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Anything great requires hard work and sacrifice. It’s tough, it’s difficult, it’s challenging. For me, part of anything I did was the challenge. I enjoyed pushing myself and being pushed, always testing myself. Even today, I won’t take shortcuts. If there’s a hill to run up, I’ll run up it, I won’t avoid it.
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Life presents you with a multitude of choices and challenges, often leaving you torn between your capabilities and limitations. “I can” and “I can’t” shape your mindset and determine your actions.
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However, the ultimate decision lies within you. Whether you succeed or fail, achieve your dreams or fall short, depends on your own determination, perseverance, and the choices you make.
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You are the architect of your life. Your choices shape your abilities and outcomes – ultimately, it’s up to you.
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When you start saying “I can”, it reflects a positive affirmation that you believe in the potential to overcome obstacles and achieve success. It fuels ambition, drive, resilience, and a belief in your own potential.
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On the other hand, acknowledging your limitations is a crucial aspect of personal growth and self-awareness too. It’s unrealistic to assume that you can excel in all areas or accomplish everything you desire.
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While saying “I can’t” may seem disheartening, if you’re honest with yourself and remain positive, it can give you an opportunity for self-reflection, deeper learning, and collaboration. It’s an invitation to seek alternative solutions, acquire new skills, or seek the expertise and advice of others.
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So, what’s your story going to be? What will you be able to tell yourself in a few months or a few years’ time?
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The hard work is worth it. But the real training starts when you want to stop.
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Written by Adam Carter