You Are Capable of More Than You Think
You are Capable of More than You Think
Too often, we are limited by our thoughts. But, we are more than that. We are capable of more good, more bad, and bigger things than we ever thought were possible. Our thoughts are often a hinderance for us, and as you begin to make a mental shift, you will adapt and change to adjust to your new mindset. Eventually, you’ll become a person that you never thought that you could be. If you set a goal and work towards that goal, you’ll be able to accomplish greater things than you ever thought were possible.
We are Capable of More Damage
Unfortunately, we are also often more capable of damage that we think. Sometimes, we tend to think that lack of action is a better course, but lack of action can be just as damaging as a wrong action. We have to remember that inaction is still action. Sometimes, we will tell ourselves that we are simply staying distant, when in reality, it is cowardice that is pushing us to not act.
We are Capable of More Good
We often will think that the small, good things we do are insignificant, but this could not be further from the truth. We can do small, good things that make an impact, but we also have to be intentional about doing them. You cannot say that, “well, I don’t do ‘blank, blank or blank’, so I’m a good person”. It takes more than not doing bad things to be good. Goodness requires both “putting off” the bad and intentionally “putting on” good.
The Desire to do Good
Even though doing good is important, the desire to do good could possibly be more significant. Good intentions do always lead to good actions and good actions do not always have good intentions. Do you get that? I would rather be the one who earnestly desires to do good but battles with good works than the one who does good works with bad intentions. The fruit of a healthy desire is discipline. In time, your desire to do good will lead to the discipline of actually doing it. If you desire to good, start with little things. Small deeds go a long way when done on a consistent basis. Don’t overwhelm yourself with trying to save the world.
Avoidance is Not Inherently Good
Many times, people attempt to avoid conflict and situations that are uncomfortable under the guise that they are doing good by simply avoiding the issue. Sometimes, the avoidance of a bad situation can actually make it worse. All words carry weight - those that we do and do NOT say.
The Importance of Being a Role Model
As a martial arts instructor, I have learned that whether or not I am aware, I am being looked at as a role model, and this can be said of all instructors. As such, it is important that we live up to a certain standard and a certain code of conduct. In the martial arts world, there is a lot of “fake respect”, meaning that respect is shown in public, but it is not taken to heart. The respect does NOt have good intentions. In martial arts, respect is often demanded on the mats, but is not reciprocated or taken outside into the world. The higher your belt, the more respect your should demonstrate NOT demand. As coaches and therefore role models, we have to stand against this trend of false respect and honor.
How We Show Respect
Marital arts is supposed to stand for honor, integrity, dignity and self control. As an industry, we are lacking in that and so I have implemented various standards to help that respect to be taken seriously both on and off the mats. For example, foul language sets a tone of lack of self control and disrespect. Therefore, no foul language is permitted here at Clinch Academy. Your level of self control is illustrated in your language, and dignity and respect are expected of our students. The atmosphere of the environment where a person trains makes an impact both on who they are and who they will become. What this boils down to is “Loving your neighbor”. We utilize self-control and self-discipline as tools to better love and serve our neighbor. That is respect.
The Impact You can Make
To achieve great things, you have to change your mindset. You have to know that the little things that you do can make a big difference. You have to learn to encourage others, and by doing so, you encourage yourself to grow. By supporting those around you. Small words carry huge weight, especially words of encouragement. However, in the midst of this, it is important to keep your pride in check. You need to put this into practice by changing your mindset and knowing that you are capable of both more good, and more bad, than you think. Think more, do more!
Martial Arts Teaches Us This
You may not think you can do something like martial arts. Martial arts teaches us that we a capable of far more than we think. The first step is to believe you CAN do martial arts. Once you begin the journey you will be continually reminded and often pleasantly surprised of the things you are capable of. We set goals, plan, achieve and repeat in martial arts. This type of lifestyle demonstrates and proves to us that when we are deliberate and intentional about what we do, we can do just about anything!