Be patient with yourself. Enjoy the process.

Have you ever been told to “just be patient”? It can be frustrating to hear, especially when you’re eager for something to happen. But the truth is, patience is much more than simply waiting. It’s how you behave while you’re waiting that really matters.

In karate, patience is a critical component of mastering new techniques. Perfecting your movements takes time and practice, and rushing through the process can lead to mistakes and injuries. Patience allows you to focus on each step of the technique, making small improvements along the way until you’ve mastered it.

But patience isn’t just about achieving goals – it’s also about how you behave while you’re waiting. It’s about maintaining a positive attitude, staying motivated, and being persistent in the face of setbacks. In other words, it’s about the journey, not just the destination.

“Patience isn’t just waiting. It’s how you behave while you’re waiting.”

This is true in both karate and everyday life. When you’re working towards a goal, it’s easy to get frustrated or discouraged when things don’t go as planned. But patience allows you to stay positive, focus on the present moment, and make the most of every opportunity.

I often see students who are eager to see immediate results in their Martial Arts journey. But I always remind them that the process takes time and dedication. Patience allows you to stick to your martial arts plan, make gradual progress, and ultimately achieve your goal of a black belt.

So next time someone tells you to “just be patient,” remember that it’s not just about waiting. It’s about how you behave while you’re waiting – staying positive, staying motivated, and staying focused on the journey. With patience, anything is possible.

See you on the mats,

Michael