“I don’t want to go today!!”

PARENTS!
Did you know one of the most common things you will hear from your child that trains in the martial arts or in any other sport/activity is,”I don’t want to go to class today!”
From my experience, this usually has very little to do with actually not enjoying the class, the sport, the piano lessons, etc; but, way more to do with the actual process and lead up to that particular activity- “the get up and go.” For example, leaving whatever they were doing, changing into their uniform, getting their belt and sparring gear in order, sacrificing that hour of time in place for something beneficial for short term and long term development. First, it’s normal and to be expected. Consistency is also a huge component in dealing with the “get up and go” battle. As consistency falls off, the ability to win the “get up and go” battle follows and the tantrums usually get harder to deal with. As adults, we also struggle with the same battles of “get up and go” but we are better equipped to see the bigger picture and understand the “it’s good for you” benefits from getting that workout when we don’t feel like it, doing that extra bit of work when we don’t feel like it, sacrificing something little to attain something big. With our training, it’s even easier to see the big picture. I’ve never had or heard of a student who regretted making it to Black Belt and beyond, only the other way around…The regret of stopping short and calling it quits. I know these battles can be difficult and sometimes thought of as not worth the fight. But, I encourage you it is a battle worth fighting. I’ve seen first hand the damage from a lifetime of bullying and confidence bashing so if there is a remedy to this, it’s always worth it because there is too much at stake. My mission is empowering kids with work ethic, responsibility, discipline, resilience and confidence. I take my mission extremely seriously. See you all soon!