Strong convictions loosely held.

As a karate student, you are constantly pushing yourself to be better, stronger, and more disciplined. And one of the most important lessons you can learn along the way is the power of having “strong convictions, loosely held.”

What does that mean exactly? It means firmly believing in your values, goals, and principles but being open to new ideas, perspectives, and experiences. It means being confident in your convictions but also being willing to adjust them if new evidence or insights arise.

Here are a few examples of how this principle can be applied in your karate practice and your daily life:

1. Strong Convictions: You believe in the importance of discipline and hard work. You know that consistent practice and dedication are essential to achieving your goals in karate and in life.

Loosely Held: You recognize that there are many different ways to approach training and that there is always room for improvement. You are open to learning new techniques, trying different training methods, and adapting your approach as needed.

1. Strong Convictions: You value respect, courtesy, and humility. You know that treating others with kindness and dignity is essential to building strong relationships and creating a positive community.

Loosely Held: You recognize that everyone has different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. You are open to learning from others, hearing their opinions, and understanding their point of view. You are also willing to apologize and make amends if you unintentionally offend or hurt someone.

1. Strong Convictions: You believe in the importance of setting goals and working towards them. You know that having a clear vision of what you want to achieve is essential to making progress and staying motivated.

Loosely Held: You recognize that sometimes unexpected obstacles or opportunities can arise. You are open to adjusting your goals, revising your plans, and exploring new paths if necessary.

In summary, “Strong convictions, loosely held” is about finding the balance between staying true to your beliefs and being open to new ideas and experiences. It’s about being confident in your values, but also being willing to adapt and grow. By applying this principle in your karate practice and in your daily life, you can become a more resilient, adaptable, and successful person.

See you on the mats,

Michael