The harsh reality is that most people give-up too early. As soon as the required level of effort intensifies, they throw in the towel and head back to their comfort zone. Figuratively speaking, these people will surely wear a white belt forever. It’s just that simple.
Those wearing the black belt never threw in the towel and continue to forge ahead without hesitation. They are constantly training, endlessly learning and always ready for new material. Their success has little to do with intrinsic aptitude and everything to do with psychological determination. They never quit.
If you train hard, you’ll not only be hard, you’ll be hard to beat.
– Herschel Walker
Here are 9 black belt keys for success.
- Set Personal Goals – Personal goals define personal success. Success cannot be achieved unless goals have been set ahead of time.
- Visualize Success – Picture the outcome of your efforts. Use it as motivation to get you there.
- Work Hard – Be ready to sweat. Success comes at a cost. That cost is hard work.
- Learn From Your Mistakes – Mistakes are inevitable, and they are also the single greatest element of education.
- Never Quit – Quitting is failing. Brush yourself off, reevaluate your approach and try again.
- Keep Training – Self-study is vital. Never stop learning new material and never stop training with the material you already know.
- Assist Others – You must always give back what you take. Be a student and a teacher. You will learn something new in both roles.
- Maintain a Relaxed Mind – Relaxation is a critical part of keeping a clear perspective. Even under stressful conditions you must maintain mental equilibrium… breath.
- Value Your Mentors – A good mentor understands where you’ve been, where you intend to go, and is also chock full of priceless firsthand advice. Respect your mentors and value their opinions.
Ella says
As a black belt in karate myself, I have to point out that while perseverance is important, you do need to be able to learn, and you do need to know and be able to do a huge amount to pass a black belt exam. It is not something that just anyone can do.
But otherwise, yeah, not bad advice.
Em says
Wish you had ‘share this’ buttons. Wanted to tweet and email this to my sister but nevermind..
Jess says
I’m a black belt in kick-boxing and I both agree and disagree with you, Ella. I know you have to do an awful lot to pass a black belt exam but I also believe that anyone can do it if they try and never give up. You only have to be WILLING to learn and be completely focussed and committed to gain black belt status. Whilst you have to know all the material, even if you don’t pass your grading, you should still FEEL like a black belt if you know you gave it your best shot. Trust me, you’ll feel ten feet taller in you just believe in yourself and don’t kick yourself for not passing. 🙂
God Bless
Karl says
Jess, very well said. So true.
Neo says
Jess, you’re a legend! I dig you to the core! LOL… very well said. And great advice Marc and Angel.
Walter says
– Pain Matters Not.
– Learn the rules, then how to break them. Doing so prepares you for when someone else who indeed does break the rules.